I use a few methods to capture attention, because using just one method doesn't seem to work for every student. Moving around the room as you lecture is, in my mind, the most effective means. It keeps me from getting monotonous and keeps me interested and active; if I am, they will be. Also, rather than formal quizzes, I'll have frequent breaks in my lectures. This allows me to ask questions at peak moments when I have just covered an important topic, making sure all the students got the point. I can focus on inattentive students at that time, making it seem random.
I'll also give all students a chance to respond, telling the class know-it-all that I would like to hear other opinions as well. Quickly they get the point without ever having to confront them for their over-ambitious behavior. In very small classes, they can be very helpful, but in larger classes they can truly be a pain. Meanwhile - they're usually just interested in the information and are not aware that they're being disruptive. Often, if allowed to blossom, these students can make excellent instructors in years to come (if a bit needy).
I agree. Asking a student a direct question would keep them involved.
I use a few methods to capture attention, because using just one method doesn't seem to work for every student. Moving around the room as you lecture is, in my mind, the most effective means. It keeps me from getting monotonous and keeps me interested and active; if I am, they will be. Also, rather than formal quizzes, I'll have frequent breaks in my lectures. This allows me to ask questions at peak moments when I have just covered an important topic, making sure all the students got the point. I can focus on inattentive students at that time, making it seem random.
I'll also give all students a chance to respond, telling the class know-it-all that I would like to hear other opinions as well. Quickly they get the point without ever having to confront them for their over-ambitious behavior. In very small classes, they can be very helpful, but in larger classes they can truly be a pain. Meanwhile - they're usually just interested in the information and are not aware that they're being disruptive. Often, if allowed to blossom, these students can make excellent instructors in years to come (if a bit needy).
You can invovale them in the discussion for the day
Hi Jonathan,
I also call upon these students to capture their attention.
Patricia
There are so many wonderful ides presented in this discussion. The strategies can be of great help to our instructors. Our school has enrolled its instructors in CEE. I think we can use a faculty meeting to implement and explore some of these ideas.
Instructors can select a strategy
Explain why they selected it
Describe their expected outcome
List the steps they used to implement it
Analyze the effectiveness
Sugest modifications for future use
I agree students are interested in real life experiences I've had in my practice. It helps them recall the principle being taught and envision how it may impact them
Hi Derrick,
Once students realize how they can utilize various concepts in the workplace or personally, they are a lot more interested.
Patricia
I ususally ask the student a question related to the subject being discussed. Depending upon the subject and group - I may also break the class into small groups and have them prepare questions on the current subject for a Jeopardy game. It not only gets them interested it helps me evaluate if they understand the material.
I like to find out what is important to the student and then use that to make my instruction more interesting.
Hi Bryant,
I am not a jokester, but I can certainly see how this can be used as an attention getter. I like to pause and give an inspirational quote.
Patricia
Hi Carol,
I've used this before. Students really do like it. I also like using m&m's. Students take how many ever m&m's they want out of a bowl. Based on the number of m&m's taken, the student has to tell that many things about themselves.
Patricia
I, too, use ice breakers the first day of class. I have students work in teams of two. They are given a set of questions to use for the interview. After completed, they introduce each other to the class by sharing the information. They enjoy this process.
Using current world events, along with local news, will inspire interaction/participation. Students relate to what's real. For example, recently a flight attendant created news that can be used during a discussion on what is deemed professional behavior or not.
Finding a teaching technique that they are more receptive to.
I like to use student presentations in class. I think it helps the student retain knowledge regarding the subject of the presentations. I also require them to make a handout for the class regarding the important points in their presentations.
I through in a joke or two when I have my chats just to see who is listening and to see if they get it. The class loves it.
Bryant Neal
I find that my student like the little surveys I set up from time to time and is also helps me with the feedback I get on some of them.
Bryant Neal
In my first class I have all the students introduce themselves and tell the class what field they are studing in, how much education they have and what they do for work. This breaks the ice for the student, helps them to relate to each other and helps me to understand the learning abilities of my students.
Bryant Neal
