I move around the entire room, not so much to claim my space as much as it is to prevent, cheating, texting under the desks, small chit-chat, inappropriate computer (i.e., accessing email), etc. I firming believe that it does put me in a place of authority and the students clearly know that I don't bend the classroom and school policies. Walking around from the first day to the last day of the term has also giving me a reputation as one of the "tougher" faculty, but my students know exactly what my expectations are for their behavior but I've found that my reputation also includes being the "fairest" and most approachable faculty.
I realize it is important to move around the classroom and this is my goal to work on. I teach psychology, which includes using powerpoint, doing experiments, and watching videos. I tend to sit near the computer so I can click to the next slide. I read that it is important to move around the room, so the students can follow me, which helps with distractions and loss of student attention and focus.
Jennifer,
yes, I like it because it does add this extra level of accountability to the class.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
It allows you to see everything that is going on in the classroom. Moving around the classroom also encourages students to pay attention because they know that you are not going to stand at a podium for the entire class and may be able to see what they are doing on their computers, phones, etc.
It allows you to see everything that is going on in the classroom. Moving around the classroom also encourages students to pay attention because they know that you are not going to stand at a podium for the entire class and may be able to see what they are doing on their computers, phones, etc.
Amanda,
and often just that "presence" of being near by will encourage the distracted students to pay better attention.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I never liked standing in one place for a long time,
so moving around the classroom is something I do naturally.
It is a good way to keep the students awake and engaged. Also I like to move near those students who try to get as far away from the teacher as possible.
You can tell that this has been their practice for most of their learning careers - and it gives me an opportunity to engage them in the discussion and the learning.
Moving around the classroom allows you to get a good view of what is going on. You can see if someone is not paying attention (ie: playing on cell phones, etc.). It shows you are available and around if anyone needs help as well.
The more you move around students seem to move with you and they stay alert. I feel when moving around you don't give them time to wonder..
Douglas,
this is a good point & one of the keys here is to make sure that you aren't looking like a caged animal & pacing nor are you being too predictable in your movements.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I really like the idea of moving around the classroom: (1) this gives the instructor lots of information about the classroom from many different view points (the student' view points) and (2) draws more students into the learning space and focus because the instructor is more present-the back of the classroom is no longer the back of the classroom!
Using the entire classroom benefits the instructor tremendously. The instructor will maintain a sense of control within the room and have the ability to check students note taking methods, to see if they are grasping the current topic of discussion.
I know when I first started I stayed close to the podium but as time went on I was moving around the class now I am able to see and interact with all the students better I keeps them more involved
Brendon ,
And this movement really helps all students feel a part of the learning environment.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I like to move around to verify all the students are at the same place online or in text books so I don't leave anyone behind
For me, it keeps my students focused on me. I can retain their attention.
because it makes the instructor grab the attention of students and makes the entire class room as a part of the instructional zone.
I think it helps keep the students actively engaged
Jan,
exactly...think about our own conversations we have with friends & family. We engage with those who are in close proximity to us, not from a far distance.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I feel that when I move around the classroom, students are more likely to ask questions and interact with me than if I stay behind the lectern. Moving around promotes conversation and also helps to keep students on task.
