Productively Waiting for Latecomers

• Published in: College teaching Vol. 54; no. 1; pp. 181 - 208
• Main Author: Gump, Steven E.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Washington Heldref 01.01.2006; Heldref Publications; Taylor & Francis Inc
• Subjects: Asian Culture; Classroom Techniques; College students; Cross cultural studies; Cultural groups; Cultural identity; Cultural instruction; Foreign Culture; Instructional Innovation; Religion; Student Interests; Student Motivation; Teaching Methods; Time Management; Units of Study; Asia; United States > US; Illinois; Japan
• ISSN: 8756-7555; 1930-8299
• DOI: 10.3200/CTCH.54.1.181-208

How do teachers use the time at the beginning of class before all the students have arrived? Do they simply ignore the latecomers and proceed with instruction, figuring that those who are late will ask fellow students what they missed? Or do they wait a minute or two before starting, filling the space some other way? In this brief article, the author offers a "quick fix" idea, using a "show and tell" format as a fresh way to remedy this problem and also to inspire and motivate students. In this article, the author presents his own way of dealing with latecomers likewise his own teaching techniques which motivates student to gain interest in the course such as foreign culture, where most topics are broadly covered. This quick fix idea offers a fresh way to inspire and motivate students. He further emphasizes that it should be adaptable to other subject areas with a little thought and preparation.