Humour in Education

Last September, I was navigating a particularly rough patch in my personal life. It was one of those times when everything felt heavy, and I knew I wasn’t the only one feeling it. My students, too, seemed weighed down by the challenges of their own lives. That’s when I decided to try something new: humour. I started using jokes in my classroom; not to distract from the lessons, but to bring a little lightness and, hopefully, a few smiles to their days. 

This small change began to change the atmosphere of my class. Students were looking forward to the next class, just to hear the joke of the day. I was increasing students’ participation and using humour in lessons. Sometimes, the humor in a joke did not resonate with everyone, yet they all laughed intentionally to kick off the lesson on a light-hearted note. I recall a particular moment when I shared this joke: “I added ketchup to my grocery shopping list, but afterward, I couldn’t read it!” One of my students found it so hilarious that he nearly cried and had to step out of the class to regain his calm. It truly fostered a wonderful connection between us. Another class I shared this joke: ‘‘What is the name of the luckiest Marvel superhero? Loki!’’. It was a real success, everyone was laughing. Throughout the year, several students approached me with jokes they either created or discovered online. They were so proud of their finds and eager to share the “Joke of the Day” with their classmates. 

Many educators struggle with keeping students engaged, especially in today’s fast-paced, distraction-filled world, where social media often competes for attention. On top of that, the classroom can sometimes feel heavy, whether it’s due to external pressures or the challenges students bring with them. That’s where humor can be a game-changer. 

Humor improves the overall atmosphere, turning the classroom into a space where students feel safe to laugh and, importantly, to make mistakes. This is especially valuable in second language acquisition, where fear of errors often holds students back. A lighthearted environment encourages them to try, stumble, and learn without judgment. It also builds relationships. When students see their teacher’s human side, it fosters trust and connection, making them more open to learning. 

And let’s not forget engagement. A touch of humor can make even the driest subject, like teaching English grammar, come alive, capturing students’ attention and making lessons more memorable. 

Of course, humor isn’t without its challenges. While it can be a powerful tool, it’s also a delicate one. Used poorly, it can backfire, creating confusion or even discomfort in the classroom. Here is what to pay attention. Forcing humor: Trying too hard to be funny can feel awkward and inauthentic, which risks losing credibility with your students. Misjudging your audience: Humor that’s too niche or culturally specific might not land, especially in diverse classrooms. It’s important to know your students and their sensitivities. Overusing humor: Too many jokes can distract from the lesson and make it harder for students to take you seriously when it counts. Unintended offense: Even well-meaning jokes can sometimes be misunderstood, so it’s crucial to avoid humor that could be seen as personal, political, or inappropriate.  

Humor is like seasoning: used sparingly and thoughtfully, it enhances the experience. But too much, or the wrong kind, can ruin the dish. 

As a second language teacher, one of my challenges involved tailoring jokes to fit my students’ English proficiency and cultural contexts. For instance, I shared this joke with one class: “Why can’t rappers take vacations? Because they always forget Tupac!” However, I quickly discovered that this generation of students was unfamiliar with the iconic 90s artist Tupac. I had to explain who he was, and we even listened to one of his songs together.  

In another instance, I told my students in a high school art program this joke: “Why did the yogurt go to the art exhibition? Because it was cultured!” I ended up explaining the yogurt-making process in French, which turned out to be awkward and complicated! Unsurprisingly, they didn’t laugh at the joke. I realized that the humor was simply too complex for seventh-grade students. 

To conclude, the key lies in balance and authenticity. Educators should use humor as a way to enhance their unique teaching style, not as a performance. When humor is natural and inclusive, it can transform the classroom into a dynamic and enjoyable space for learning, where learning feels less like a chore and more like an adventure. By weaving humor into lessons, teachers can break down barriers, spark curiosity, and make even the most challenging topics approachable. So, why not give it a try? Start small—share a lighthearted story, make fun of your own quirks, or find the unexpected in everyday moments. You might be surprised at how a little laughter can transform your classroom into a thriving hub of connection and learning. 

Meet the Expert(s)

Stéphanie-Claude Remon

English as a Second Language Teacher, Centre de Service Scolaire de Saint-Hyacinthe, École secondaire Samuel-Casavant

Stéphanie-Claude Remon is a passionate educator on a mission to bring more joy, humour, and connection into the classroom. With years of teaching experience and a heart full of resilience, she understands how laughter can open minds, ease stress, and spark deeper learning.

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