I have found that by not keeping to a strict lecture then discussion schedule helps keep students on their toes. Maybe a group project or a question and answer with no notice will stir someones attention.
I agree with Maria! Keeping the class room active, alive and adding a little humor into the discussions will surely attract attention form the students. Showing bright colorful visual aids also bring a littel freshness to the classroom setting. And providing occasional incentives such as 10 mins early out of class, will surely enable the students to have a better attention into the discussions.
I like to have the students participate in class discusion,divided the class in groups, also bringing speaker, field trips and proyects done by them with a presentation, help to keep the student interested in the class room.
ask more questions to that student assign the student a short project get the students mor envoled in discussions.
Hi Larry,
An instructor being dramatic is definitely a strength in the classroom. We must do what it takes to keep our students interested and motivated.
Patricia
I set-up a scenario using voice inflections and become a little dramatic and then pose an open-ended question for discussion. I then call on individual students to share their opinion or solution.
I have certainly employed the "proximity" technique in most cases and have had success. It doesn't seem to matter the age of the student, it has always been a technique I use.
I have trouble identifying those that already know the material, are completely lost, or just daydreaming. Having gone to Catholic school, I never wanted to be notice by "sister". These were the mostly violent women I have ever known. I did not want the embarrassment or punishment so I would hide.
I ask the students to give me a little nod if they need another example of a problem. I'll catch them at the break or after class and offer additional time and help.
Maybe my Catholic or inner city schools experiences make me believe the inattentive students do not want to be noticed or embarrassed in front of their peers.
Hi Roger,
It is frustrating. I tell my students all the time, you should want to get your money's worth.
Patricia
Hi Sherrie,
Great variety! It is very important to incorporate technology into your lesson every opportunity that becomes available because this generation of students is very technology driven.
Patricia
Hi Kathleen,
I am too! I am really loud, and I have had students to tell me, it is hard to not pay attention in your class because your voice really projects.
Patricia
Hi Michael,
This normally works to grab the student's attention.
Patricia
To ask the student a question regarding subject matter but in a way that won't make them feel uncomfortable.
I raise and lower my voice during lecture. I am very animated with my gesutres and hand motions and I walk arounf the room.
Show the student the lesson plan for a class, and ask them to come up with activities for you to interestingly deliver the material.
I like to give examples related to their current lives. I also like to have the students that are more vocal to take the lead in front of the class with me. I think students listen to peer more. I also break up the class time into groups, lecture and discussion and debates.
I like to get as many students as possible to share their experiences. I know many are young and may not have as many life experiences, but they often suprise you with their input.
I will go off topic sometimes, asking about what movies are playing and what is going on in the city this weekend. I have even stopped everyrhing to perform a magic trick just to get intyerst back on what I am saying.
I totally agree, you can discover a lot when talking with students indiviudally and also they are more likely to open up when their is not an audience.
Hi Denise,
Color fascinates the world. Use it to fascinate your students.
Patricia
