One way to get off-task students reengaged in the class is to simply focus your attention on them. It does not need to be intimidating; you can merely call on them for an answer, or move near the student and gently help them reengage. Showing the student that it matters to you, the instructor, that they are engaged can make all the difference. Ignoring that the student is not engaged shows the student that you simply do not care.
Kayla,
As a practice, I assume that students need (and want) direction. In my syllabus I spell out specifically when and what is required, due dates, format, parameters, grading method, etc. I try to leave nothing to wonder about. In your situation, it may be helpful to state not only when an assignment is due but also how soon it can be submitted.
Barry Westling
I find that some of my students are so in a race to get assignments done that they miss valuable info while trying to move onto the next assignment... what do you recommend for this?
Sonia,
Great. Some refer to this activity as "checking for understanding", a great method for moving forward only so far in the lesson before deciding whether the bulk of students have a working understanding of the material. If not, time to back up a bit and review, then check for understanding again.
Barry Westling
What I like to do is walk around the classroom during the lecture then ask students questions regarding the material we just discussed. I have students answer the questions in their own words so I can have an idea of how much info they are retaining.
Brian,
Yes, this is sometimes called "checking for understanding", where students are questioned before moving on tones material. If appropriate answers are not forthcoming, then the instructor knows they need to spend more time before moving on.
Barry Westling
I agree with many others, breaking the material down into "mini units" gives you an opportunity to "re-focus" students after each piece.
David,
Of course, repeated, unwanted behavior can be addressed at break, or before or after class. Sometimes disengaged students require immediate action or the whole class session will be wasted. Simple things like standing next to "chatty" students while lecturing, or asking specific students questions can reengage unfocused or distracting students.
Barry Westling
My Counseling background would have me meet with the student indiviually, to ellicit feedback.
Shanika,
It would be wonderful if all students were courteous, attentive, and focused for every class session. Unfortunately, that is usually not the case. But as instructors, our job includes trying to reach all students, so efforts to engage (or reengage) is an essential responsibilty, and often critical to the success of the less motivated students. Reengaging is not difficult, but it does take an awareness when the need exists, and a willingness to employ the various techniques that will refocus the class on the lesson.
Barry Westling
I totally agree with this. Not only are those students hurting themselves but also their fellow classmates. This is unfair to those who are trying to learn the content that is presented.
Gina,
Engaging students can be facilitated with simple techniques to more aggressive methods. Sanding near students while lecturing, circulating around the room, and randomly asking students questions are more simple and often are enough to keep students focused. At times, students lose interest (bored, unprepared, don't understand, are I'll or tired, worried, or apathetic), and these times require effort by the instructor, such as changing to a different activity, taking a break to reset the focus, or changing the method of delivery. Variety in delivery is a great way to keep focus and interest longer.
Barry Westling
I was interested in the suggestions given in this course about how to reengage off task students. As a new teacher I am concerned with losing the interest of the class. I will be prepared to switch tactics.
Terry,
I think when we keep in mind the "WIIFM" (what's in it for me) principle, students will stay engaged with better focus, longer, and be more willing to participate.
Barry Westling
of course make sure the lines of communication are open and that you are always available, ask what they would be interested in learning
Kizzy,
Good advice. I believe laying out my expectations at the beginning of the course, and at that time, asking what else I can do, helps put everyone on the same page with respect to what I plan to do and what the student's participation is.
Barry Westling
I always say that an informed student is a happy student. By making your expectations clear and allowing the students to voice their expectations of you as an instructor, this will allow you to ask them this question, "How can I meet your expectations as an instructor if you are not dedicated as a student?"
Tracey,
Student groups is a great way to encourage participation while instilling course information in a non-threatening manner, and involving students in their own learning. In this setting, the instructor is really only facilitating instruction, not "dishing it out".
Barry Westling
By breaking students off into smaller groups to discuss the topic can help get students refocused in the class.
Manuela,
I agree, students like games (and stories). I can nearly always capture attention and refocus students by interjecting some version of one of these strategies. Learning can be fun and interesting.
Barry Westling
