Because US colleges value creativity and originality, students (especially in smaller classes or sections) are expected to participate in class—to share their ideas about the course material, to work together in groups, and sometimes even to lead class discussions. Because students’ contributions are so highly valued, many instructors devote a portion of the final course grade to class participation.
Participating actively might involve some or all of the following:
Class participation
Working in groups
Showing respect for peers
Speaking in English
Related topics:
Reading the syllabus
Understanding the expectations of US classrooms
Attending classes regularly
Getting extra help