OP-ED: If No One Raises Their Hand, I’m Going to Start Calling on People

Come on, guys. Seriously.

The answer is in the instructions. Does anyone have the instructions handy?

I can see them on your desks.

I know participation isn’t part of your grade, but this is going to be really boring for everyone if no one speaks up.

Keep focusing on your screens if you think the answer is A, and stare at me glassily if you think the answer is B.

Okay, now you’re all looking at the instructions.

I have a roster of all your names. If no one raises their hand, I’m going to start calling on people.

Fine. You pushed me to this. Let’s see… James Monroe, do you think the answer is A or B?

Is James Monroe here?

I guess not.

I feel like I’m talking to myself here, guys.

Your education costs a lot. Do you think you’re getting the most out of your educations?

I should have seen that one coming.

Okay, it’s A, okay? The answer is A.