Some students will struggle with participation, and that is completely normal. There are many reasons why a student might be disruptive, and addressing these behaviors can be challenging. If you have already tried redirection, clear expectations, and other interventions without success, here is one of the most effective strategies I have used:
Invite the student to take on a leadership role.
It might sound counterintuitive, but stay with me. Meeting with the student privately and involving them in shaping the next activity can shift their mindset from disengaged participant to active contributor.
How to Do This Effectively:
- Meet one-on-one. Talk privately with the student about their behavior.
- Use affective statements. Instead of calling them out, explain how their actions impact you and the group.
- Find something positive to highlight. Even if it feels like a stretch, identify something they bring to the table.
- Ask for their input. Let them help create questions, check-in prompts, or even co-facilitate with you.
- Set expectations, but also listen. Ask what they need to feel successful.
I have seen students who were the biggest disruptors become active participants when given some ownership. At the very least, you are modeling how to navigate challenges in a way that values them as part of the solution rather than seeing them as a problem to fix.
Give it a shot. You might be surprised.
-John Whalen, Co-founder of Edtomorrow