Things to Do When Bored in Class is the topic of our post today!
As teachers, we are no strangers to those occasional wandering gazes or stifled yawns emanating from the back of the classroom. While we might hope every moment in class is filled with fascination and intellectual discovery, the reality is that there are bound to be periods that feel less engaging. This is particularly true for students who each carry a unique learning style, pace, and set of interests.
Yet, even in these moments of monotony, opportunity still looms around. In fact, moments of boredom can be catalyst for our creativity, resourcefulness, and even self-directed learning. Think back to your school days, do you remember those dreary afternoons during which the hands of the clock seemed to stand still? I bet you wish you had a toolbox full of strategies to help navigate that boredom creatively, right? Well, that’s exactly what I’m here to talk about!
In this blog post, I’ll explore a list of things you and your students can do when feeling bored in class. Each suggestion is designed to make the most of these less-than-thrilling moments while respecting the classroom environment and learning process.
Things to Do When Bored in Class
Check out these suggestions for things to do when bored in class:
1. Self-Directed Learning
When the lesson doesn’t quite hit the mark, students can use the opportunity to delve deeper into the topic at their own pace. For instance, if a history lesson feels dry, they might explore a related historical figure or event that piques their interest (or even try a history game). I’ve noticed that students often find this autonomy refreshing, and it can lead to some fascinating class discussions and personal discoveries.
2. Creative Note-Taking
Traditional note-taking can be a snooze, so why not mix it up? Encouraging students to draw diagrams, sketch scenes, or create mind maps can make the note-taking process more engaging. Creative note taking is all about understanding and processing information in a way that resonates with one’s own learning style. These notes, as we all know, often turn into fantastic study aids!
3. Question Asking
When the pace slows, students can challenge themselves to think critically about the subject matter. Engage them in questions-based discussions to deepen their understanding and prepare them for future discussions. It’s a simple strategy, but asking “Why?” or “What if?” can transform a dull moment into an intellectual adventure.
4. Peer Teaching
Sometimes, explaining a concept to a classmate can reinforce a student’s own understanding and break the monotony. This peer teaching doesn’t have to be formal; just discussing the topic or asking each other questions can make a big difference. It’s amazing how a shift in perspective, from passive listener to active teacher, can reignite a student’s interest in the material.
5. Mindful Moment
When boredom strikes, it might just be a sign that the brain needs a break. Taking a minute for a mindful moment—deep breathing, stretching, or simply resting the eyes—can help students reset and refocus. It’s a small investment of time that can significantly improve their concentration and engagement.
6. Engage in Reflective Writing
When a lesson doesn’t quite capture their interest, students might find it helpful to jot down their thoughts or feelings about the topic. Reflective writing can be a private way to process the material and understand why it might not be resonating with them. This introspection can lead to personal insights or even spark a newfound interest in the subject. Plus, it’s a great way to hone writing skills and express oneself creatively.
7. Volunteer for Classroom Responsibilities
Assigning or allowing students to volunteer for specific roles or responsibilities related to the course can increase their sense of involvement and investment. Whether it’s helping with classroom organization, leading a discussion, or assisting in preparing materials for an experiment, these roles can provide a sense of purpose and belonging.
8. Connect Learning to Real Life
When the classroom feels disconnected from the real world, students can take the initiative to bridge that gap. They can think about how the lesson relates to their life, current events, or future aspirations. Making these connections can turn an abstract concept into something tangible and relevant, sparking curiosity and engagement. It’s called meaningful and relevant learning!
9. Organize or Participate in Study Groups
Collaborating with peers can make learning more interactive and less monotonous. Study groups provide a platform for students to discuss ideas, ask questions, and support each other’s learning. The social aspect can make the material more enjoyable, and explaining concepts to others is a powerful way to reinforce one’s own understanding.
10. Explore Multimedia Resources
When the classroom material isn’t clicking, students can seek out podcasts, videos, or documentaries on the subject. These resources can present information in a different light and often in a more engaging manner. For instance, a documentary on marine biology might bring to life a textbook chapter on ocean ecosystems. It’s a way to supplement learning, cater to different learning styles, and break the monotony of traditional classroom tools.
11. Design or Work on a Personal Project
Encouraging students to start a personal project related to the course material can be a fantastic way to reignite their interest. Whether it’s a research paper on a topic they’re passionate about, a creative art piece, or even a science experiment, personal projects allow students to explore the subject in a way that aligns with their interests and strengths.
12. Participate in or Start a Classroom Blog or Journal
Writing for a classroom blog or journal offers a platform for students to express their thoughts and share their learning experiences. It’s a space where they can write reviews, discuss interesting facets of the subject, or reflect on their learning journey. This not only combats boredom but also fosters a sense of community and collaboration among classmates.
13. Engage in Constructive Debate
When a subject feels stale, sparking a debate can be a great way to stimulate critical thinking and engagement. Students can take opposing sides on a topic relevant to the course and explore different viewpoints. This not only makes the material more dynamic but also helps develop persuasive speaking and critical thinking skills.
14. Incorporate Technology and Online Tools
There’s a vast array of educational technology tools out there that can transform the learning experience. Encourage students to use apps, online quizzes, or interactive games related to the subject matter. These tools can make learning more interactive, personalized, and fun. Alternatively, students can use these entertainment websites to learn and have fun.
15. Start a Classroom Book Club
A book club can be a fantastic way to stimulate interest and discussion. Students can choose books related to the subject matter or that offer new perspectives on familiar topics. This not only encourages reading but also allows for rich, guided discussions that can deepen understanding and engagement with the course material.
16. Engage in Educational Games and Competitions
Competition can be a healthy way to motivate students. Organizing quiz bowls, jeopardy games, or other educational competitions related to the course material can make learning fun and interactive. It’s a great way to review and reinforce knowledge while keeping the energy high in the classroom.
Final thoughts
As you learned from the list I shared above, the strategies and resources featured there are not just about combating boredom; they’re about fostering proactive learners who can find educational value in every moment. While learning remains our primary goal, persistent disengagement calls for deeper reflection and open dialogue with students about their motivations. I hope you have found this list of resources helpful. If you have suggestions and recommendations make sure to share with us.
