Inattentive student
I have students who work and so by the time they get to class they are tired and sleepy. What I normally do is sit them by the aisle so they can avoid leaning on the wall and fall asleep. When I lecture I walk around and it is easier for me to just tap my fingers on the desk without having to much classroom distraction.
I also call students at random during lectures and also during laboratory practical exercises to much sure they are doing their work.
I think it is also important that the room facilities are conducive to learning. For example, the room should not be too hot as to encourage sleepiness, furthermore, consistently asing questions and engaging the students increases their focus and attention.
I try to do a little bit of small talk as well....sometimes I have to wrap it up for them because if can get out of hand and take up too much class time.
Alex
Hi everyone,
My problem is that the students are inattentive because they are repeating this class (for various reasons) so the material I lecture on has already been heard by them. I find it challenging to keep their attention from time to time.
Any tips on how to keep them intersted?
If I know the student is good at what we are learning and another student is still struggling. I will have that student help the struggling student understand the lesson.
Hi Rhonda,
Small talk with students goes a long way. Students want to engage in conversation with the instructor. I like how you add the personal touch.
Patricai
I like those ideas. One thing I like to do is ask them a personal question--by name and addressed in a personal manner. For example: How's your family, Tom? or The baby sleeping all night yet? Asking these types of questions places me on the same scale as the student. Now they are listening to a "friend" instead of, or in addition to, an instructor. I have found that it helps to keep their attention if they know I really think of them in regards other than student/teacher.
Just an idea--
Hi Marlo,
I use the same tactics with some of my tired students. Our students certainly juggle a lot. I have even had my students to go in the break area and drink a caffeine drink to help wake them up. I also have them splash water on their face and have a drink of water to wake them up. We must do what it takes to help the student get what they need in order to succeed.
Patricia
As I lecture I ask them to imagine working for that specialist (DR) and if you will be able to answer their questions, I'll ask during the cardiovascular lecture "will the sacrum be heard during the time the Dr. is listening to the heart" and the one that not listening to me will be called upon and they will say yes, I will explain that the tailbone can not be heard during the time the doc is listening to the heart, it does not make a sound, so please pay attention.
I find that when I have inattentive students it is best to get them involved in the instruction of the class. I do this by having them do some type of classroom activity. It brings them back into focus and does not create a distraction for the rest of the class.
Yes, calling on students randomly keeps students more attentive and interested in the course. Walking around can also add interest. I also try to be demonstrative to add interest and keep everyone entertained.
