During the Module on Sexual Expression, we sociologically analyze masturbation and society's impact on this natural behavior. Students may be uncomfortable with certain topics that we discuss and analyze. It is also a good opportunity to have a different type of activity. Statements on masturbation are printed on 11 X 17 paper. Each student has one statement in front of them. A timer is used for students to comment on the paper in writing with no discussion. It is a silent class period. Once the timer goes off the statement gets rotated to the next student. Students are able to write freely on a topic they sometimes have difficulty discussing orally in class. Students are able to provide feedback to the other students' comments as the statement papers get passed around. In the group discussion on using a silent activity and the weekly self reflection, students give positive feedback on how a silent activity gives them a different learning tool for a "taboo" topic. 100% of the students give positive feedback on this activity as a learning tool. The statement papers are attached.
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| soc130masturbationactivity.doc | 26 KB |
Comments
Hi Olga -
I have participated in a similar type of activity in MOSAIC training and other workshops, but it was a bit more "public" as we had to rotate around a room and write comments on easel paper. I really like your method much better. It offers a safety zone for expressing important feelings and preconceptions/misconceptions. I can see this as a great way for introducing evolution and natural selection in biology class. Thanks for providing a great tool for opening minds about potentially sensitive topics!
I can see how this activity could be utilized with other taboo/uncomfortable topics in any class. Thanks for sharing.
As a person who is extremely uncomfortable with this type of topics, I like that this is a silent activity.
Olga, I was raised in a household that did not have any sexual discussions and my parents idea of teaching me about the reproductive process was to give me a book as a present when I became engaged. I think giving the students the opportunity to have a silent conversation on topics that can be uncomfortable or thought forbidden can be very powerful. I appreciate this opportunity that you give your students to experience a conversation they might otherwise not be able to have.
This is a very interesting strategy for dealing with a sensitive topic. Your "Silent Activity" seemed to be very effective with your students! Two questions: how did you handle this topic prior to the use of the Silent Activity, and how did you know students were uncomfortable with it? (It would be helpful to have some comparative data.)
Thank you for sharing. This is an interesting strategy for student engagement.
Interesting stuff. I read your 30 statements that students were to comment on and there are definitely useful things for students to think about including social implications, religious issues, self consciousness etc. I wanted to answer the questions myself!
Thanks Holly! I appreciate you taking the time to read the statements and to comment! :)