What is the difference between simultaneous and sequential interaction? When I first pose this question to students, I ask them to think about the definition of each word for a couple of minutes. Then I ask them to share with their partner what they thought (Think-Pair-Share). Next, I ask them to share what their partner thought with another set of partners (Think-Pair-Square). After they have shared with the quad, I ask them to return to their table and determine the most important idea shared. The leader of the group shares the most important ideas with the whole group.

After I have recorded the responses of the class, I call on one person to read one of the responses. I call on another person to read the next response. I repeat this process for the remainder of the list. After the students have just sat for about 10 minutes listening to one student at a time, I ask them to talk to their group about the difference between the first part of the activity and the last part. I ask them to tell me which part kept them more engaged and why.

This activity clearly illustrates the difference between simultaneous and sequential interaction and the importance of active and constant involvement of students in the learning process. Simultaneous Interaction is one of the Essential Elements of Tabor Rotation. This clip, from the Tabor Rotation Training DVD, is a clear illustration of the power of all students interacting with each other and the teacher. Watch the clip and try it with your class to see what happens.

[vimeo]http://www.vimeo.com/23381630[/vimeo]