in this last decade people have changed not only their priorities but also their way of thinking and their philosophy on life itself. as students they're only going to learn what is relevent and convenient to them... the only way sometime to capture their attention is to throw them under the bus, and let them experience a more realistic perspective that they can relate to... hands on exercice always get their attention...
Cute. Can't wait to try the whispering in someone's ear trick!
Ask an open-ended question to draw the student into the learning environment.
Dr. Kim
When keeping student's attention for the 4 1/2 hour anatomy and physiology classes, I incorporate many teahcing modalities. Part of the class time I use a micture of straight lecture with students taking notes, drawing and labeling on the board with students doing the same, case studies with open student interaction, and hand-outs with matching and/or coloring anatomical parts, and some 3-dimensional models with play-dough to replicate the models. It was nice to read about bringing in past student guest speakers, as I have done that as well, and the students appear to really enjoy the speakers.
I really liked the minute paper and the "use-it-wisely" cards ideas presented in the section and can hardly wait until class to try those ideas in my classroom.
Hi John,
Getting/keeping students involved is a great way to hold attention.
Patricia Scales
Hi Noah,
I like your tactics! Great ways to help students regain focus or maintain focus.
Patricia Scales
One way to capture student attention is to go around the room with questions so that they know they will be called upon.
I also ask a general question of them, or perhaps a yes or no question to see if they understand a general principle. Then I can tell if they know the subject and have tuned out because it is too easy or if they don't have the basic knowledge and will fall behind further.
It varies. Sometimes switch to a more active style, or provide a team exercise. In addition, I include "story telling" in my lectures which have a point, but are humorous too.
I also like to keep the blinds open, and on really nice days, I will even open up the windows for some fresh air. Something about natural sunlight makes us feel great. But another tactic I use when trying to get the attention of a student or two, is to lower my voice during lecture. It doesnt take long for them to realize they are being disruptive. I try to walk around the class during lecture so everyone can see and hear me. One more thing I do when I notice we are having difficulty focusing (due to Mon morning blues, or rain, etc..) is to stop what I am doing, lean over and whisper something random in someones ear (the hungry hippo is playing soccer in purple shorts). That person will whisper it into someone else's ear and so on until everyone has heard it. The last person repeats it out loud. Usually totally wrong. This just shows how fucosed we are, or aren't. We then regroup and get back to what we were doing.
I will try to have them participate in demos and designate them with responsibilities. I will also have one on one as how they are doing in class
I will change up my presentation and format so as to make them aware there is something going on.I also will assign them a special project as to help spark there interest in the subject.I will them them stories about my career experiences and how this relates to them.
Mix it up in the classroom by stopping lecture to ask questions, have the students read the power point and reflect on the meaning, tell personal captivating stories that are associated to the material being discussed and the field studied.
Hi Amber,
Yes, keep the energy level high! Excitement of the course begins with the instructor.
Patricia Scales
Walking around the classroom and making things fun and exciting with games and discussion on the subject matter.
During lectures, I like to move around the classroom. I randomly ask student to describe in their own word what the concepts and ideas I am teaching mean to them. I am carefully to give ample time to answer and encourage them to think the process through when they are have difficulty in forming an answer.
Hi Kelsey,
We must keep our students engaged, especially those who have worked all day. Variety is key to keeping students engaged. Hands-on activities are excellent for engagement.
Patricia Scales
I teach an evening class, so the majority of the students have already had a full day or work or family. I find that these students are very motivated but at times their attention is lacking. I try to be perceptive of the students energy level.
I will try to change tasks or perhaps get out a piece of equipment or a model to change the focus and get them out of their seats.
I CHANGE THE WAY THE CLASS IS GOING,, INTERJECT SOMETHING NEW PLAY A GAME , GOFORAWALK .. DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT
I keep conversation on the topic on-going. I ask specific questions that cannot be given in a yes or no answer. I also like to keep it interesting by giving as many examples of "real-life" experiences I have seen or experienced myself regarding the topic at hand.
Wow! I also teach students (nursing) who are learning processes. I love this idea and will implement it. I realize in reading these posts that I have several advantages in my college classroom: we have a zero cell phone policy for students inside the building, we have a window in the classroom, our AV equipment allows for PPT visibility with the lights on, our students get a 10 minute break every 50 minutes, and I am able to walk about the room during class. I am glad it is positive for the students, but it energizes me, as well.
