It’s always the quiet ones who needs to be watched,

When they say something you beter listen .

You could tell your teachers that you are an active listener. If you feel comfortable doing this, you could encourage them to call on you and be prepared to answer. Usually, a good teacher will ask questions to engage the quiet students without ever having to speak to them about their shyness. I’m kind of surprised that the teachers don’t approach you in a more positive manner. Most of mine just told me that they’d like to hear me speak up more in class, which encouraged me.

In the future, you may want to notify your teachers about your reluctance to talk in class. If they ask about things they might need to know, just say, “I don’t like to talk much in class because it makes me nervous, but I like to participate by being an active listener and paying close attention.” In your current situation, you can help yourself by setting reasonable goals to improve your participation. Promise yourself that you’ll give at least one comment in each class period. Before you go to class, write down questions about assigned readings. Also, you can allow your written work to speak for you. In most classes, participation only counts for 10%, so it’s not a huge deal. But do try to speak up a little more because it will help become more engaged and feel that you belong in the class.

I’m much the same way in that I much prefer bouncing ideas in my own head than around the room. I find that I still remain present in the classroom as long as I remain attentive to the professor. I don’t mean simply listening and processing, but responding. You needn’t respond orally, even, just smile or nod or shake your head when you make eye contact with the professor. Let them know that you are in fact thinking and a part of everything going on. And when you feel like you’ve got a good idea rattling around, or something you can’t quite figure out, speak up then. I hope this helps some.

I’ve had the same problems. I would ask the teach or find out somehow about the different topics or discussions in class, and then plan several questions or thoughts to add. That way you have planned what you are going to say. I’ve found many professors are open to helping in that way, if you explain your situation. It works for me because i’d much rather think to myself then share with the class

Speak up! Share your thoughts. As an adult, the people who never speak at meetings management quickly considers them poor workers and not interested in the projects. They are the first to get let go when they do layoffs.

No reason you can’t do thinking and talking.