Movement in Classroom
I never thought of moving around in the classroom as part of a lesson plan. I think that would be very helpful in a classroom
NANCY,
I personally don't think it is, as long as you are not "pacing." This can become distracting, but moving around, with appropriate pauses in places is not a bad thing.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I like to move freely around the classroom for many reasons. When an instructor just talks from a lectern, the students seem to tune out. When I walk around, their eyes follow me and they are more engaged. Also, I look for those students on their phones or sleeping. When I walk near them, they miraculously pay attention! It tells them that this is a class in which they must listen and learn. Is it wrong to walk around too much?
Rose Anne,
yes, movement can be a great tool & obviously we also need to be careful that we don't overdo it & move too much.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I did not think about movement i the class as part of the lecture either. I used the moving to keep the students with me during the lecture and paying attention to me. I probably should move a little more than I usually do.
Sandra,
it can take some getting used to, but I have found the advantages are great as it engages the students at a whole new level.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Walking around the room during a lecture was initially very challenging for myself but I am finding that the more I do it, the more comfortable I am. Initially it caused me to read the slides because teh wlaking was almost a distraction to my thought process but not losing my train of thought has greatly improved.
Even movement to the projection screen to point out important point in your lecture really helps. Students will follow along if you are active. Also, moving about the class will allow you to see who needs more one on one attention.
Cheryl,
yes the movement is a great way to engage all learners with the content & to ensure that they are truly with you.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
It allows you to engage all in the class.It also assist with getting the attention of others that are not as attentive doing lecture
I usually don't move too much around the classroom. But i'll start doing it so that the students keep their attention to the class for longer.
I also am trying to move around more in class because you can keep the students attention but also see who isn't paying attention and or own their phone. It also help me lecture better and get over my nervous.
it keeps their attention, and if they are on computers and you go to the back of the class you can see everyone's progress, who needs help, who's getting 'it', or if they are just playing on their iphones.
