Check in
Social
Author: Anni Stavnskaer Pedersen
Facilitated by the teacher
The aim is to encourage the development of social relations in the social learning space to prepare them for the innovation process.
20-30 mins
2-40 students
Whiteboard
Steps
- The teacher uses a number of methods to encourage as many students as possible to speak on how they feel about a learning topic. The teacher could use a ball that is given to any student who wants to speak. The students could also ask for the ball if they wish to contribute. It is essential that the students who are not speaking are respectful and listen attentively to the individual speaking however, they are permitted to ask questions.
- Students are asked to share their thoughts, feelings and concerns using the following prompts for their answers:
- How are they feeling right now? Do they have any private, professional or practical concerns which may influence the lesson?
- Do they have any particular questions concerning the day’s topic which they would like to ask?
- Do they have any information or knowledge they wish to share regarding the day’s topic?
- If the lesson is part of a course, the students may take time to reflect on the course and the latest lesson. Are there any reflections from the latest lesson regarding materials used or how lessons were taught?
Reflection
This activity creates a ‘safety net’ for students and may also contribute to improved student focus on the task at hand. ‘Checking in’ can be repeated using different methods like singing or quoting, giving high-fives or preparing a game. After each lesson, the teacher may appoint students who are responsible for preparing something for the class which should take ten to fifteen minutes to complete.
The activity could be done using online tools such as Padlet, virtual whiteboard and breakout rooms in Teams/Zoom.
The activity could be done using online tools such as Padlet, virtual whiteboard and breakout rooms in Teams/Zoom.
Inspiration