Why Brainstorming Sometimes Fails in the Classroom?
1. Lack of Clear Purpose or Instructions
-
Problem: Students don’t understand the goal of the brainstorming session.
-
Effect: They may give unrelated ideas, stay quiet, or feel confused.
-
Solution: Start with a clear, focused question or problem. Explain expectations and the rules.
Example:
-
Poor: “Talk about anything about animals.”
-
Better: “List ways animals adapt to survive in deserts.”
2. Fear of Judgment or Criticism
-
Problem: Students worry their ideas might be mocked or judged.
-
Effect: They may stay silent or give very safe, repetitive ideas.
-
Solution: Create a safe, non-judgmental environment. Emphasize that all ideas are welcome, and mistakes are part of learning.
3. Dominance of Certain Students
-
Problem: A few vocal students dominate the session.
-
Effect: Others may feel intimidated or unimportant and stop contributing.
-
Solution:
-
Use round-robin sharing where each student speaks in turn.
-
Allow silent brainstorming on paper before sharing.
-
4. Lack of Preparation
-
Problem: Students don’t have enough prior knowledge or background to generate ideas.
-
Effect: They may struggle to contribute meaningful ideas.
-
Solution: Provide background information, examples, or prompts before brainstorming.
5. Time Mismanagement
-
Problem: Either too little or too much time is given.
-
Effect:
-
Too little → students can’t think deeply
-
Too much → students lose focus or get distracted
-
-
Solution: Set a specific, reasonable time (e.g., 5–10 minutes for idea generation).
6. Lack of Follow-Up
-
Problem: Ideas are collected but never used or discussed.
-
Effect: Students feel the activity is pointless and disengage in future sessions.
-
Solution: Always analyze, organize, and apply the ideas generated.
7. Environmental Distractions
-
Problem: Noise, uncomfortable seating, or crowded space.
-
Effect: Students lose focus and participation drops.
-
Solution: Arrange the classroom to encourage collaboration and minimize distractions.
Summary
For brainstorming to succeed in class, you need:
-
Clear purpose and instructions
-
Safe, supportive environment
-
Equal participation
-
Adequate preparation
-
Good time management
-
Follow-up and application of ideas
