Locating Yourself in the Classroom
My class is small and I like to have the tables arranged in a horseshoe set-up. This gives me the opportunity to join the class sometimes and sit by different students. When the instructor moves around the classroom or lab, it helps the student stay present in class. We all go on a mental field trip sometime.
Why is it important for an instructor to move around the classroom or lab?
Moving around the classroom signals to the students that the teacher can address their need for assistance and support on points of difficulty. It is also a teacher's way of monitoring students.
I totally agree, Stephen! There is something about an instructor being intimately part of the classroom that encourages student interaction. And - yes - it does feel more conversational.
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED106 Facilitator
I like to move around the classroom to involve every student including those who might prefer to hide in the back or who are more easily distracted.
Student responses are more easily solicited if you are physically close by. And, the answer can appear to be more conversational in tone.
It makes the students aware of your presence.that you are available to answer any questions and that you interested in their progress, that you are involved with their learning.
Hi Faylee!
You must really be exciting for students! I do caution that some students can't manage excessive activity with their learning style so I really like the fact that you pause for emphasis.
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
Ed106 Facilitator
i feel that if i keep moving it forces the students to remain focused on you, it helps with students that tend to fall asleep in class.
Moving around the classroom helps to better engage the students in the learning process. By moving around the classroom you can change the direction that your voice is coming from which can help keep your lectures from becoming monotonous. You can also make direct eye contact with the students in the back of the classroom in order to involve them more in the lecture. In the lab it helps to move so that you can identify if students are having problems completing the tasks assigned and give them the help they need.
I move around the classroom probably more quickly that you would approve. Not only do I see what they students are doing ( notes vs texting) establish eye contact as I move, but the constant motion makes the student keep moving their eyes and head. One student said it was like watching a tennis match. I stop when stressing a point. Apprently that is a givaway to strong points. mostly I just have too much energy and this method suits my ADD
There are several reasons and factors that relate to "why an Instructor should move around the classroom" when lecturing, I think the most important reason is to keep the students engaged in the lecture. When they follow you with their eyes, they remain focused and are not allowed to slip away into boredom land. It also keeps the instructor focused and allows them to form a rhythm. Being fluent in your delivery also helps keep the students involved and by moving around the classroom allows me personally to be able to select students to participate in my lectures through questioning and answers. Mitchell Becker
move around the classroom because it seems to feel like I'm part of the class
I completely agree with some of the other comments. It helps to keep students engaged...and it claims the entire classroom as the 'instructional facility'. Additionally, it keeps students on track...as a computer lab instructor it helps me to ensure that no one is drifting from MS Office to Facebook...etc.
Bravo Sandra! You definitely have the key to connecting with students.
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED106 Facilitator
By moving around the room it gives the impression that you are more approachable. The students feel comfortable with you and there is no barrier between you and them.
Moving about the classroom gives the instructor the ability to see what students are doing it helps class control
Hi Reginald!
The more an instructor becomes a part of the class, the better students respond.
Good job!
Jane Davis
ED106 Facilitator
It gives you better access to all your students. You can also keep disruption down because you are right there. Some students do not like to ask questions in front of class but if you are walking around next to them and you already know that about them, they can ask you questions as you walk past them. Also the students in back of class can feel they are part of the classroom.
As a drawing instructor it is especially important to move around the classroom highlight a concept taught individualy with each students. Thankfully classes are small enough that I can go around the room as they are working on their projects to give individualized teaching and make myself more accessible and connected to my students. In addition, by eing mobile in the classroom, it is a way of training students to expect my engagig with them and give correction or input into how well they are making use of a concept or how to make their drawings or projects better. Floating works because it allows me to "check" on individual student's applying themselves to tasks and to their progress.
