In the dynamic system that is a course, active learners do have more than one role. When the teacher is presenting the materials to be learned, the student becomes a listener. When students work in groups, they can be a learner, a teacher, a facilitator, and/or a presenter.

What’s the function of a “know-it-all” in the class? Does that person have a purpose in the over all scheme of things? This type of person is someone who enjoys expressing the knowledge they have about a particular subject, whether it is the classroom topic or something completely unrelated. They want to be heard by others, and they do not take criticism well. Their purpose in the scheme of things is giving knowledge to others. The challenge with having this kind of student in class is that they can hinder the learning of others. By being allowed to answer almost all the questions, they are not giving other students in the class time to process knowledge (thinking). Intimidation can occur if teachers allow this student to be the only one to answer. It is up to the teacher to find a role for this student (such as a tutor for other students) so that the “know it all” feels useful.

Where does the “teacher’s pet” come into play? A teacher’s pet is a student who is willing to go above and beyond to please their teacher. When a teacher dotes on this type of student too much, other students feel “cheated” of the teacher’s attention. The key here is to not allow any student to be seen as the favorite in the class. Teachers need to treat all students as equally as they can.

How do we deal with “front row/back row” dynamics online?  First, the online instructor has to determine who is a front row learner and who is a back row learner.  This can be done with discussions threads.  Front row learners generate lots of postings, back row learners tend to do the minimum necessary to get by.  Then, the instructor needs to engage the back row learners in conversations via email, discussion board, and/or putting him/her with a front row learner in a group activity.  In the classroom, it is much easier to do because you are a physical presence and can walk right up to a student and ask them a question, making them compelled to respond.  Much more difficult in the online environment.