Speak up in class

Thoughts are of no consequence if they are not expressed. Speaking up makes all the difference

The shrinking violets of a class are very easy to spot. They sit clutching on to their seats in a corner, bored and intimidated. On being asked to make a presentation, they usually get reduced to a pounding oversized heart in a pool of sweat beads.

Recent finding by a group of academics at Edinburgh University claims that young people who speak up in class are more likely to learn better. Engaging with classmates and teachers on a lesson is one of the most effective ways of learning as early as in secondary school. Complex lessons are processed better through “active listening” rather than passive listening where the children only absorb without resistance what is being spoon-fed to them.

Speaking up: What It Means

By being outspoken in class, youngsters develop key communication skills and personality traits.

• Confidence: Making yourself heard and being listened to usually boosts a person’s confidence. Even if you are shy, after a couple of attempts you will find yourself gradually comfortable with public speaking.
• New skills: Once you have learnt to relax, you might even excel at debating, negotiating, decision-making and influencing decision makers.
• Decision-making: You also learn how to take collective decisions. Through constant exchange of ideas in class, you learn early how to make decisions and contribute to them.
• Self-esteem: Being in control and being able to take decisions infuses in you a deep sense of pride and self-esteem. When others begin to take you seriously, this can result in increased confidence and aspirations.
• Be heard: It will help you communicate more clearly your needs and receive better services.
• Greater involvement: Regular exchange in class leads to a feeling of comfort with the environs. This, in turn, motivates you to get involved in the wider school community and activities.

How to Take Those First Steps

1. Don’t be nervous: Overcome your hesitations by remembering the three Cs – Calm, Cool and Collected. Remember that you have the right to get your doubts cleared and your thoughts on a subject heard. Don’t, however, make irrelevant interruptions.
2. Maintain good posture: Your body language is important. Slouching will give off the vibe that people can easily dominate or overpower you. On the other hand, a firm body posture sends the signal that people cannot mess with you.
3. Listen carefully: If you have nothing to say then listen attentively to what the teacher is saying. You might require some clarification or might find some points you disagree with. But listen closely even if you have nothing to say. It is important to have valid points.
4. Join in: Get involved in a conversation that is already in progression. But remember not to jump in and interrupt while people are talking. That’s a complete no-no.
5. Formulate questions: If you feel you have nothing to say and cannot figure out from where to begin, then asking questions could be a good entry point. Go through your course material and write down at least five questions or points.

These are only the basic ways of speaking up in class and making small but valid interventions. Public speaking is not such an intimidating affair if you begin at a young age. Classrooms are a good space to begin with. If you think speaking loudly and publicly is a sign of pride and overconfidence then you may be surprised to know that your silence could also be misunderstood as smugness. Thus, it is better to loosen up and contribute to the lessons and discussions. At the end, it is you who will benefit.