Commanding versus Demanding my students' attention
My latest communication issue involves teaching in a computer lab. I have too many students in the classroom with to few computers, so I initially started out on a bad foot with my class. I explained that I am trying to get them what they need, although it is difficult.
Now that the class size is decreased, I am having a problem with some of the students logging in to FaceBook and various webpages. I continually walk and lecture around the room, and when I see the students off task, I call their name and focus some attention on them. Sometimes, I will do a quick "stand behind them until they realize I am watching them ignore me" or "stare until they realize I am focusing on them and so is the rest of the class because I stopped talking."
What other suggestions do you have regarding the management in a classroom where you cannot be over the shoulder of your students all the time? I don't want to smile too much or they think I'm a pushover. I don't want them to stay on the computers while I'm lecturing. Any suggestions?
But wouldn't this be punishment work? And we keep being told it is not good to give extra work as a punishment!!
I have had the IT department set blocks for certain websites: they can be quite effective if enforced by software management.
Hi Robin!
This is truly a challenge! One thought that I have is how can this behavior/misuse of computers affect their grade? Could access be limited during class discussion? Could students who abuse the use be moved to another location in the room (or asked to leave) during discussion or even denied use for that day?
I really believe in positive reenforcement, but I think under your cicumstances that would be difficult.
Have you discussed this with any of your colleagues? They might have some suggestions.
OR - have you asked your students how they would handle the situation - especially if they were allowed to remain annonymous? You might be surprised at the recommendations you get.
I hope some of this provides food for thought and good luck!
Jane Davis
ED106 Facilitator
You're doing the right thing to begin with. Your problem is that these are adults who started off badly, and aren't willing to be "won over" mid-term. They've made a conscious decision not to pay attention. Maybe talking to the violators individually after or before class and asking what you can do to help them stay on track might be good. You could just "give in" (in a way) and assign them additional work that they can do while you're lecturing, since they're so advanced they don't need the lecture. : )
