Eye Contact
I found making a direct eye contact with each and every student during lecture not only keeps students engaged, but also helps me find out what is going on in the classroom. For instance, I see those students who have a tendency to exihibit disruptive behavior duing eye contact.
Christopher,
I like your point about gauging the need for a break, this is especially useful in the longer, block type of classes.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I've also used eye contact to gauge whether or not a break is needed. It's also a good way to tell if the class is following your lecture or if you need to adjust the pace.
I have found that when I try to establish eye contact in a larger class it is more difficult at the beginning of the term then later. Not because of my comfort level, but because I don't know everyone's name yet and if they are distracted it is more difficult to draw them back in with eye contact since I can't call on them individually. A dramatic pause is one tool I use in this situation.
Anthony,
these are both good points & especially like the second. The eyes are a great way to gauge when it's time to mix it up or take a break.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Eye contact is one of the major tools I use in measuring the effectiveness of my class discussions. If students look detached I know I am losing them and will try to find a way to connect the discussion to their own personal experiences so they can see the relevance. For classes of longer duration eye contact is also a good indicator of when a break is needed to give students time to regroup.
Biftu,
yes, the use of direct eye contact is a great way to keep a finger on the pulse of the class.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I have had the same results. Often it seems it only takes a second or two of eye contact with a disruptive student to stop the behavior.
