Moving around the classroom
I enjoyed reading the material about engaging students through movement in the classroom. Through my teaching, I have found that students are more responsive when an instructor is not only passionate about a topic, but also lively in their delivery.
I agree to, I like using the whole classroom, the students are more alert ,and I know that they are paying attention
I also feel sometimes as though I am entertaining my classes, a combination of life experiences and antidotes keep the students engaged in the material covered. I tell the admissions department, when asking if they can bring in a perspective student by my class that I am performing all day.
I believe that moving around the classroom not only keeps students attention, but also keeps them engaged in the lesson. Also, as the instructor it helps me to continue my eye contact and allows me to watch the students work. Whether it is a project, quiz, or test, if they know you care enough to watch, they will take the work more seroius!
In today's times, it also cuts down on distraction like texting if they know you will be strolling all around the classroom!
Hi Ellen!
When we do entertain while staying focused on student learning, the outcomes are very good.
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED106 Facilitator
Passion is why we teach alright. Most days I feel like an entertainer, ensuring I capture the interest of all students. It is more fun to move around the classroom using gestures and stories to engage students and to look at faces to ensure everyone understands.
Hi April!
I agree! I find that moving around the room keeps me more on my toes as well. One thing that I do is strategically place my notes so if I need to refer to them, it is not noticed by students.
I will also put up colorful displays in different corners of the room where I will stop to give students the opportunity to provide feedback or for additional learning. Students really get engaged when I do this. Then I "move" on from there.
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED106 Facilitator
I agree completely. It not only helps keep me focused, but I have less problems in the classroom with students doing other class work and other non-class related activities. If I don't move around, my students ask me am I okay.
I agree completely! Students have no idea if you are going to call on them so they stay alert when they do not know the instructor's every move.
Personally I am more comfortable moving around my classroom rather than standing in one spot the entire time. Moving around gives me the opportunity to observe all of my students those who are engaged and those who are not.
One of the best methods to keep students focused on the lecture. It also prevents what I call under the counter activities inclusive but not limited to text messaging,reading newspapares, playing on their cell phones etc ,etc, etc......
I agree. When you are using the whole space of the classroom, they are more alert. It is almost as if stepping outside of your comfort zone causes them to pay attention.
I have noticed, in my classroom, that students who are normally quiet and shy, are a lot more involved in class when I move closer to them, and make eye contact, before asking questions. It's amazing that something so simple can make such a big difference in class participation!
Hi Krystal!
I agree! We are the leaders of the learning experience in the classroom. If we aren't energized, how can we expect students to get excited.
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED106 Facilitator
when you engage your students with movement and eye contact it can cover up any other flaws that you might have as a speaker.
I agree! The more excitement and energy I have about the topic, the more interested the students are.
