Eye Contact
I think it is so important for students to make eye contact with each student rather than one. It is, afterall, a class discussion.
I agree. It's your job as an instructor to connect with each student and make sure they are all understanding the material. Eye contact is a huge part of this, it really helps you see if they are following the lecture.
Jessica,
this is true & it also helps them know that you are paying attention to them & their learning needs.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Making eye contact with students creates a good standing with the students and makes them feel like they are recognized and their options matter.
Latoya,
you are so right in regard to the importance of eye contact. It does help maintain control of a class, but it really is so much more & we have such a great chance to connect with students & help them through this means.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I think that eye contact in any situation, inside the classroom or outside of the classroom is a very vital element of non-verbal communication. Maintaing proper eye contact communicates that you are interested in what is being said or what is going on around you. It symbolizes respect, builds rapport, and acknowledgement between the instructor and the students. Of course we have to make sure that we are not giving off a direct gaze while making eye contact because it can come off as threatening or intimidating. Also, eye contact can show alot about how a person may view themselves in regards to self-esteem and confidence. Someone who doesn't see themself in a positive manner may have difficulty communicating with their eyes. As instructors this is an area that we have to improve, if needed, especially when students walk into the classroom; everyday, they should be with a smile, and "good morning," while making eye contact.
Vatina,
this is always a good idea. Often many questions are answered by one student asking for them.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I agree, if a student is talking, I instruct the class to pay very close attention to the student as what he or she is asking or explaining sometimes is the thought of another student.
Tara,
it really is a key to effective communication between teacher & student & between students as you said here.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
This is a great point. When a instructor makes eye contact with a student, that students realizes that the instructor does want to communicate with them. We often forget that it is important for the students to make eye contact with each other.
Carlos,
very true. And sometimes we forget how important it is to really engage the students & make them feel involved as this helps with their attention & participation.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
It is true, in that way the class turns more interactive. The students feel they are involved in the topic.
Kimberly,
this is a great point. We often emphasize making that eye contact between teachers & students but it's also important between students & students.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
