What are the most effective ways to engage philosophy students?

1 Use active learning strategies

Active learning strategies are methods that involve students in the learning process, rather than passively listening to lectures or reading texts. They can include discussions, debates, simulations, games, case studies, role plays, problem-solving, and peer feedback. Active learning strategies can help philosophy students to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world situations, to examine different perspectives and arguments, to articulate their own views and reasons, and to interact with their peers and instructors. They can also make philosophy more fun, relevant, and memorable.

3 Connect philosophy to students' interests and experiences

Philosophy can sometimes seem distant or abstract from students' everyday lives, especially if they are not familiar with the historical or cultural context of the philosophical texts or ideas. To overcome this barrier, you can try to connect philosophy to students' interests and experiences, and show them how it relates to their personal, academic, or professional goals. For example, you can ask them to reflect on their own philosophical beliefs or questions, to relate philosophical concepts or arguments to current events or issues, or to explore the philosophical implications of their chosen fields or disciplines.

4 Encourage curiosity and inquiry

Curiosity and inquiry are essential for learning and doing philosophy, as they motivate students to seek answers, to question assumptions, to challenge opinions, and to explore possibilities. To foster curiosity and inquiry in philosophy students, you can use open-ended questions, prompts, or scenarios that invite them to think critically, creatively, or ethically. You can also encourage them to ask their own questions, to pursue their own interests, to research their own topics, or to design their own projects. By giving them some autonomy and choice, you can help them develop a sense of ownership and agency over their learning.

5 Provide feedback and support

Feedback and support are important for helping philosophy students to improve their understanding, skills, and performance. Feedback can be formative or summative, verbal or written, individual or group, and can come from instructors, peers, or self. Feedback can help philosophy students to identify their strengths and weaknesses, to clarify their goals and expectations, to monitor their progress and achievements, and to revise their work and strategies. Support can be academic or emotional, and can include guidance, resources, advice, encouragement, or recognition. Support can help philosophy students to overcome difficulties, to cope with challenges, to build confidence, and to celebrate success.

6 Model enthusiasm and passion

Enthusiasm and passion are contagious, and can inspire and influence students' attitudes and behaviors. As an instructor, you can model enthusiasm and passion for philosophy by showing your interest and excitement in the subject, by sharing your personal stories and insights, by expressing your appreciation and admiration for the philosophical works or thinkers, and by demonstrating your commitment and dedication to your teaching and learning. By modeling enthusiasm and passion, you can convey the value and joy of philosophy, and encourage students to develop a positive and lasting relationship with the subject.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?