I change up my chats by presenting video and other graphics. I have yet to use a guest speaker, but I've been considering that of late.
The student feedback is fantastic - for them, it's nice to be able to view the videos on their own time, hear my voice, and then be able to come to the live chat sessions prepared with questions. Obviously, there is the time factor in creating them but overall, it's gone well!
Hi B. A.,
Generally that works! I've tried that tactic before.
Patricia
Hi Catherine,
How have the videos worked for you and your students?
Patricia
I like to use interactive tools such as videos created using Camtasia or Jing to keep the attention of students. In addition, I think it's beneficial when real-life examples are used here as well. This gives the students an in-depth look at the persona of how things work in the real world as well.
If you have the class time to do it, I think you can capture a student by asking their take on an issue or idea....no right or wrong....but they can then engage, usually that can wake them up!
Hello Terri,
I understand. I teach those 6:00 p.m until 9:50 p.m. courses, and they are a bear. We have to do creative things to keep our students attention. I am a loud talker, and that typical works. I also do group activities.
Patricia
Hi MeLinda,
The pop quiz is an old solution to this problem, but even today it still works. Students automatically become interested when there is a quiz or test.
Patricia
You can give a pop quiz.
MeLinda
Hi Steve,
Great attempt to observe and resolve students issues.
Patricia
Some ways I capture the attention of inattentive students is by asking them a direct question or by infusing humor or a personal story.If the problem continues I may talk to the student privately to see if they are getting enough rest or struggling with personal issues.I will follow up based on information gathered.
In onsite courses, I constantly walk around the room or sit right in the middle of the students or sing and dance when they start to get tired (those 6p-10:10pm classes are difficult after a full day's work for them). I break into groups...we walk around the parking lot for any lecture that doesn't require notes and I am mindful to cycle any and all activities every 20 minutes or so.
I like the "silent pause" method, which gets everbody'e attention. I also use humor and analogies to capture attention.
I use a myriad of activities that are interactive and pensive. I use small group discusson, as well as, large group discussion. I attempt to cater to the different learning styles by adding atleast visual, verbal, kinesthetic methods. Sometimes I even go for shock value. But there is always someone left behind, who is not only uninterested but disinterested! I guess all we can do as teachers is try different methods! So, I do.
I like walking around the room and asking questions and get a discussion going, this gets the students attention that are goofing off and gets them engaged.
Hi Christina,
It is vitally important to get to know your students. Rapport building is of the utmost importance. Students learn differently, you can better assist the student whenever you discover what type of learner the student is. Group discussions work well. I too am a proponent of group discussions.
Patricia
Hi Dixie,
You take the students feelings into deep consideration whenever you approach them. You handle your students with such great tact.
Patricia
To avoid embarrassing the inattentive student with a question s/he is unprepared for, I've tried making a comment about possible applications, using the student's name. It gets the same response--abrupt awakening and self-consciousnes about being singled out--but without the public embarrassment. If I also affirm attentive students with the same tactic, it's more subtle and still effective.
For me, one of the first things I try to do is get to know the student. For example, is the class a requirement for their degree? If so, finding out what their major is, can help me understand how to approach the student. I also tend to think that finding out what learning style a student uses could help get their attention. I am also a proponent of group discussion.
Hi Caroline,
Students want to know that you sincerely and genuinely care.
Patricia
