Classroom Movement
I find that if you stay in one place the energy of the class and of the students starts lacking. However, once I start moving, with the students following me they are almost always paying attention to see what I will do next. I also tend to stress important topics that they should remember using hand gestures and movements. When I'm excited about a topic, I show it and the students seem to take it in like osmosis.
The energy that we as teachers bring into the classroom is very important. Prior to start a class with a demo, I start by walking around the entire room and asking the students how are they feeling and how was their weekend or how is the week going; this changes their mood instantly.
Then I proceed with the class demo and questions.
So far this have been working for the students and for me, they seem to be more alert and responsive.
I agree the moving around during a lecture or project can help bring up the energy level. I find that at times I am limited by how far I can stray from the computer because I often use powerpoint. So I picked up a wireless mouse that allows me to move around a bit more easily instead of being shackled to the computer in front of me. I have seen improvements in the attention of my students since I implemented this tool.
It is so important to set the energy level in the class! I can remember instructors of mine who did this well and those who did not do this well. I know that there are days when I am tired or not feeling very energetic, but it is so important for the students to follow our lead. We must always have enthusiasm, or we cannot possibly expect the same from our students.
I agree,the energy in moving keeps the class alive, when ever possible I get them moving as well.
I would absolutely agree and have found that I get much better content retention and participation from students if I'm making my way around the classroom while talking. That also gives me a chance to talk to each student individually and I can also monitor the students to make sure they're on track with the assignment. I think moving away from the desk or the lectern is definitely a way to make the instructor feel much more accessible and approachable to students.
Moving around the classroom breaks the student out of the "straight ahead stare". Moving around stimulates their senses and requires the student to pay attention in order to follow your voice and what is being taught/ explained. Moving around allows me to observe and make eye contact with the students at a closer distance. They have to pay attention when you are 2 feet from them and speaking and looking right at them. Moving around "resets" the attention span clock for many students and they are more likely to be engaged and listening and learning.
