The Value of Classroom Conversations in Learning

3rd January, 2019

Classroom management is very crucial because of the impact it has on students’ learning. However, there is so much emphasis on keeping the noise levels low in classes that the value of talk time is overlooked. Conversation in the classroom is a significant element of learning. The best international schools in Bangalore treat talk time with the importance it deserves.

Let us explore some reasons behind this practice:

1. It gives students time to process their learning:

When students get time to think and discuss the content they have learnt in class, it enables them to integrate this information into knowledge. This solidifies learning in their minds and increases the retention period of any learning that takes place in class.

2. Allows peer learning:

Students benefit from observing how their peers understand and think about a concept or use language around a specific topic. At times talking to a partner and not a whole group or an educator feels more comfortable and safer to children, especially the quieter ones.

3. Encourages students to practice using academic language:

Students need time in order to have meaningful academic conversations as this involves some trial and error. Talk time in the class gives them the opportunity to use specific language and explore specific topics that the opportunity to use specific language and explore specific topics that they otherwise may not have the chance to discuss outside of the classroom.

4. Builds connections between students:

For educators, providing a safe learning environment for students is among high priority goals. Guiding students to practice their oral language skills with other students enables them to form relationships with one another and strengthens the classroom community.

Teachers can add depth and structure to classroom discussions. They can facilitate conversations that promote the development of oral skills.

Here are a few ways in which teachers can make space for learning conversations in the classroom:

• Lay a foundation for students by introducing and modelling academic language
• Explicitly teach spoken language development skills and give students ample opportunities to practice and hone these skills
• Stay away from yes or no questions. Instead ask rich, open-ended questions that elicit deeper responses. Frame questions in a manner that requires students to think about and elaborate their answers.
• Create scenarios for students to apply and integrate new knowledge. For instance, ask students to consider how and why a concept would apply to a particular situation.

The benefits of purposeful conversations in the classrooms are undeniable. The best IGCSE schools in Bangalore adopt this teaching practice and are a testament to its merit.