22 Traits of the Harkness Classroom

1. Students regularly participate without ‘prompt questions’ from the teacher
2. Students refer to the reading/prep during discussion
3. Students use evidence to support their assertions
4. Students stay on topic and help others stay on topic
5. Students incorporate ideas gained from independent reading and thinking into class discussion
6. Students listen closely to the comments of others, considering carefully their points before speaking
7. Students address comments to the class (instead of to the teacher)
8. The course readings and discussions inspire students to find out more through further reading, thinking and discussion
9. Students refer to the comments of others, using their names
10. Students make eye contact when speaking
11. Students are able to summarize information to make connections between others’ points and their own
12. Students are able to make connections between various aspects of course content, and between course content and their own knowledge and experience
13. Student voice is essential to the learning environment
14. Students prepare for class by having all materials
15. Students further the discussion with their input, avoiding repetition
16. Students prepare for class by reading, annotating, thinking about and generating ideas for discussion
17. Students avoid dominating discussions
18. Students create opportunities for others in the discussion to contribute or make connections to what each is saying
19. Students actively influence the learning of the group
20. Students are willing to ask questions and/or to challenge others constructively to deepen understanding
21. Students stay engaged throughout the discussion, even if they aren’t the ones doing the talking
22. Students work with fellow students to find the answers rather than relying on the teacher