I teach computer classes for a living (beats living in my parent’s basement) and I am always amazed that people will not ask questions in class…even if they have them. Most of the students just sit there with a blank stare and you know that they want to ask a question, but still they sit there. As soon as we get to a break, they come running to ask questions…why can’t they do that in front of all of the other students? Believe me, the other students probably have the same questions, but even if they don’t they may have the example that makes it clear for you. Ask the question!
I am not really sure why people act this way. Are they afraid of admitting that they don’t know something (then why the heck are in the class in the first place if they know everything?!?!). I normally start my classes by admitting that I don’t know everything, but am willing to learn hoping that will break the ice a little, sometimes it does, sometimes it doesn’t. If you are unwilling to admit you need help, you will never learn (that is either very Zen or part of my 12 step program, I am not sure which).
The other benefit from the student’s asking question is that I as their fearless instructor also learn something new. As I mentioned above, I don’t know everything and it is the questions from the student that make me go out and look things up.
So if any of you out there sit one of my classes, please join in on the conversation…You never know, we might all learn something.
