To improve student participation during a course, here are a few ideas that I have experimented with:
Make it workshop or project based
Turn the education model into a workshop or project-based experience.
Focus on coaching
Take students individually and ask them what challenges they are currently facing and what type of exchange they need with you to overcome that challenge.
Use randomness
Use a random generator to pick a student's name and a random action.
For example, ask a question, add an idea and develop a counterargument.
I've used the website Wheelofnames to create such random generators.
This stimulates students to stay aware during the course as they know they may have to answer a question or do something.
Co-design with students
Ask students to co-design the course with you and to adapt it as it evolves.
Make them teach instead.