Types of classroom interactions

 

Definition

The term “interaction” is made up of two morphemes, namely inter and action. It is a mutual or reciprocal action or influence. In English language teaching, interaction is used to indicate the language (or action) used to maintain the conversation, to teach, or to interact with participants involved in the teaching and learning processes in the classroom.

Types of classroom interactions

Taking the different main participants in classroom interactions, namely students and teachers, one can think of the following possible patterns:

§  Teacher-students.

§  Students-teacher.

§  Students-students.

One may argue that the more the initiative comes from students in classroom interaction, the more learning is taking place. In other words, the more students are free:

§  to ask and answer questions,

§  to make decisions about the learning process,

§  to participate in discussions,

§  to initiate conversations,

Teacher-centered vs. student-centered classes

It is worthwhile noting that there is a huge difference between classes where the focus is on teaching and classes where the focus is on learning:

Teacher-centered classes:

§  The focus is on teaching

§  They are lecture-focused

§  Students’ talking time is low.

§  Students have little say on what’s happening

§  The students have to listen, take notes, and memorize what they are being taught

Student-centered classes:

§  The focus is on learning.

§  The focus is not on lectures but on tasks.

§  Students work collaboratively in small groups to answer tasks.

§  Tasks are designed in such a way that they have the potential for more than one answer.

§  Students talking time is high.

§  Students are provided with sufficient time and opportunity to listen and consider the ideas of others.

§  Critical thinking is promoted.