Get Your Students Hired
I have found that by moving around the room, and constantly keeping eye contact with my class. keeps them interested in the course material I am presenting during lecture. teaching at a technical school the students can't wait to get into lab and start working on thier lab tasks. So making lecture more interesting, get's the students more involved with lecture.
I often teach classes without lab time as well, but luckily the classes are only 2 hrs. It is very difficult to keep the students engaged especially if the subject is cut and dry. I use powerpoint presentations and I also assign students each a topic and let them present to the class so they do not have to continuously listen to me talking. I also give them hand outs. One thing I am not very good at is moving around the room, but I am going to make a more conscious effort to do so.
Shoran,
yes, these interesting questions that truly cause them to think deeply on the subject & to engage their critical thinking skills really helps keep them engaged in the class.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I agree that giving eye contact is good but, I also like to ask them interesting questions to keep their minds stimulated
Gretchen,
this is a great strategy to use, especially for these longer classes.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I have 4 hour classes, most of which do not have any lab time. It's a real challenge to keep them engaged for the entire class. I totally have seen an improvement in their interest level by floating around the room. If giving a power point presentation, I'll switch sides every so often. I also find that as I move around the room, if I can pull out a visual aid from a drawer/cabinet for what we are talking about that really helps. I think that because of this, when I move around they are really watching/listing for what's the next "surprise" to pop out.
I also find that moving around the classroom keeps them interested because there is always movement and they never know where you are going to be. It keeps their attention because you are constantly moving and it isn't the same ole same. And making eye contact with the students let them know that you are paying attention to them.
Jill,
I think the groups are a good way to go. Another option using groups is to mix the higher achieving students with those who aren't as strong as this can be a real help. This has to be managed carefully & you don't want the students to know this is what you're doing. Tutoring is always a great method too. Best wishes.
Dr. Ryan Meers
I am teaching a basic math course and can tell by eye contact and and body language how the students are receiving the content. It often seems like the individual student is at his own level of understanding and willingness to overcome their dislike/fear of math in general.
How would you suggest I pull the class together, or should I develop small groups of like-minded students? There is a designated amount of information/learning that is required by the course guidelines and I feel I am not succeeding with all students. I also offer tutoring for anyone who needs/would like it. Thanks Dr. Meers
Tony,
it really is interesting to note how much more engaging good eye contact is, no matter what the content.
Dr. Ryan Meers