• It is not uncommon that students leave the class with more confusion than clarity. By “confusion”, I do not mean a lack of understanding of the concepts. I mean instead the feeling of being pulled in several directions and not knowing where to side. I mean the feeling of a seesaw mind that sides with one position only to hear an opposing position and siding with that.
Is it worthwhile to address these confusions, or are they better off ignored? If you choose to address them, they how will you do so? By what means will you shape your answer to these questions?
What do you think? Ignore or discuss it? Or write a lecture on the topic? What would you do? And why, from the philosophical points of view you have studied.
You can do it, TayB!!!
I'm logging of the 'puter now, to read an essay on philosophy, by chance. :) I'll check in the morning to see if you have posted any more on this question.
Out of chaos, comes understanding. At least, for the Gestalts. Now in my experience, gestalt thinking does not start to take place on a large scale until one leaves the concrete domain of thinking...
https://visuallygifted.wordpress.com/2010/08/15/what-does-it-mean-to-be-a-gestalt-learner/
Addressing these confusions is definitely worthwhile, as they can hinder the learning process and prevent students from fully grasping the subject matter. Ignoring these confusions may lead to a persistent state of uncertainty and hamper intellectual growth.
To address these confusions, it is important to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment where students feel comfortable expressing their doubts and concerns. Here are some ways to shape the answer and help students overcome their confusion:
1. Encourage open dialogue: Facilitate class discussions where students can share their perspectives, ask questions, and express their confusion. This allows students to realize that they are not alone in their uncertainties and creates an opportunity for collective learning.
2. Active listening and validation: As an instructor, actively listen to students' concerns without judgment or dismissing their confusion. Validate their feelings and let them know that it is normal to feel pulled in different directions when encountering complex ideas.
3. Offer multiple perspectives: Present a range of viewpoints and arguments related to the topic at hand. Expose students to different arguments and encourage critical thinking by analyzing and evaluating each viewpoint.
4. Provide clarity through examples: Use real-world examples, illustrations, or practical applications to help students better understand complex concepts. Relating concepts to relatable situations can often provide clarity and assist in building connections.
5. Break down complex ideas: For particularly complicated concepts, break them down into smaller, more digestible parts. Encourage students to tackle one aspect at a time and build their understanding incrementally.
6. Utilize visual aids and multimedia: Incorporate visual aids such as diagrams, charts, and videos to enhance understanding. Visual representations can help students grasp abstract concepts and provide a different perspective.
7. Utilize technology and online resources: Make use of educational technology and online resources to provide additional explanations, tutorials, or interactive exercises that allow students to explore concepts at their own pace.
8. Offer individual support: Provide opportunities for one-on-one discussions, office hours, or online forums where students can seek personalized guidance and clarification.
Overall, addressing student confusions requires patience, understanding, and a willingness to adapt teaching methods to meet individual needs. By creating a supportive learning environment and utilizing various teaching strategies, students can overcome their confusions and develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter.