Being in class every day, it’s always the same handful of students raising their hands. Why is that? Whether they’re a teacher’s pet or simply not afraid to speak in a room of 900 college students, you’re always going to see those same kids’ five fingers raised to the ceiling of the lecture hall once a question is asked.
Introverts vs. Extroverts
According to The Treasurer, our society is nearly split 50:50 with 50 percent being introverts and 50 percent being extroverts. However, this statistic comes with some leeway, as the ratio ranges from one-third of the population being introverts and two-thirds being extroverts. Extroverts tend to be more social; they are more likely to talk to strangers and feel comfortable speaking in front of large groups. As an extrovert, you would enjoy being in big crowds and spending time in a group setting for extended periods. However, introverts prefer cozy nights in with close friends or alone. It’s not often that an introvert will willingly raise their hand in class or actively seek out talking to a lot of new people. In college classrooms, whether the class has around 20 students or 900, it’s typically the extroverts who are more likely to raise their hands and ask questions. An introvert, on the other hand, may feel too shy to participate, fearing they might ask a “dumb” question or give the wrong answer.
Teacher’s Pet
The teacher’s pet: the classic student who stays after class, asks and answers questions, and always sits right at the front and center of the room. Not to get this behavior confused with simply being engaged in class, the teacher’s pet goes above and beyond in hopes of earning extra points or special attention. In college, nearly everyone has likely witnessed the teacher’s pet in action. This student constantly raises their hand, either asking insightful questions that benefit everyone or posing questions that, to most, seem like common sense. For introverts, the teacher’s pet can be a blessing, as it lessens their chances of being called on in class. However, to others, their questions can become repetitive and tedious.
Preparedness
Classes can be stressful, with work piling up and sometimes requiring us to prioritize certain subjects over others. Whether you’re an introvert or an extrovert, if you’re not prepared to answer in-class questions, you’re unlikely to raise your hand. This hesitation often stems from the fear of being ridiculed by peers for giving an incorrect answer. Some students may have less challenging classes, which allows them more time to study and understand the material, while others could be enrolled in more complex classes that require closer attention. The students who regularly raise their hands are often those who are well-prepared and confident in their understanding of the topic being learned. They likely feel assured in their answers and have taken more time to study than those who are hesitant to participate.
Why do you think the same kids always raise their hands in class? Let us know on our Instagram @VALLEYmag!
