I also move around the classroom. It allows me to make eye contact with most of the students. The class know-it-all is always a problem for me.
Nancy
As instructors we need to know our students. Then we can use that knowlege to capture the students attention.
I write my expectations for the day on the white board at the beginning of every class. I think it captures their attention.
Hi Gerald,
Students really tend to like group activities. I am always amazed with students creativity from group activities. It is a great bonding experience.
Patricia
Walking around the classroom and actively engaging all students work great. Group exercises work wonders with inattentive students. This is because in the group context they are more likely to pull their own weight and contribute to the success of the group. Group exercises also help to build community in the classroom with students participating in discussions, interacting with each other, and becoming active learners.
I find that my students often have other things on their minds, and really want to share with me or the class. Similarly, an interesting side topic will present itself during a lecture that is outside of the day's plan, but is of interest to much of the class.
Not giving a small amount of time to these unrelated topics can be a huge distraction to the class, and I find that by allowing 5 minutes to really talk about whatever it is can really engage the class, and also shows that I'm not 'all business'.
The key is reeling the discussion in and getting back on track. Which is why I usually put a time limit on it before we even begin the new discussion.
For example, a student in my networking class asked about quantum computers... and the the subject quickly got into the topic of quantum physics. Not only did we have fun sharing our (very) limited knowledge of the subject, the following week a student came in to class and said that he spent hours reading about quantum physics and quantum computers in his free time.
All that from a 5 minute 'distraction'!
You can strive to make sure the content is presented in an interesting way. For example, play to the different learning styles. I make participation a graded component of the course. During class, I call on students to answer questions or explain concepts. I think this helps to keep them engaged.
By giving mini assignments/projects within the class can help to change an inattentive student's attention. Also, don't be stationary. Move around the class while lecturing or demonstrating. This causes the students to constantly keep focusing on different things.
Hi Lisa,
I too award a participation grade, but it is more of simply giving input in class and attending class. I like your idea.
Patricia
When I spot inattentive students I find that walking/lecturing near them will most capture their attention. I also animate my voice more and have a more vibrant body language (nothing over-the-top, of course). Sometimes when I feel the class is still not focusing I will give a little break to allow students to recharge; sometimes we'll take that time to discuss the latest news or even weather, and then continue with the lecture. When I have a student who constantly fails to pay attention, I individually approach them (usually at the end of class or during lunch break) and discuss the issue in a very professional and polite manner. In my experience, when students realize that the teacher notices and is concerned with their behavior they become more responsible and aware and consequently do better in class.
Hi Brittany,
Smart tactic to utilize to get everyone one on point, namely the inattentive student. No one wants to be called on and be caught off guard.
Patricia
I have used a hand out at the end of class that will be used towards their class participation grade. It is generally one to six questions based on my lecture and class activities and it gives the students a clear understanding that they need to pay attention to the course materials to answer the questions correctly. It gives me also an idea on how the students understand the content of the days information that was presented to them. They are required to hand this in at the end of class.
I use of movements like running accross the room to demonstrate for example. Very animated gestures and body language. I do this during the least insteresting parts of the lesson. I have always had success with humor and war stories.
My background is very interesting to say at least. I'm coming from a different country and a different culture, I've been through the war, seen all kinds of things and my students are interested in those things. I'm trying in every way possible to tie mu lecture to something that happen to me, or lack of knowledge that cost me something without giving up too much of my privacy and that way give them an example of how good it is to be knowledgeable.
I find that when i have an inattentive student, i will start an answer and question session to wake the student up. This gets the whole class, as well as the inattentive student, involved in class time.
One way to engage inattentive students is to resort to sometimes unorthodox methods of instruction [e.g: comedy hour, charades, etc.] to liven up and attract the full attention of the students.
I try to make the learning fun for all. While maintaining control of the class I give my experiences while working in the field to give them examples of what they may expect to see.
Hi Joyce,
I like it! I really like how you make it real from things in the general area; I am sure students can relate even more because they are familiar with the area.
Patricia
I tend to add in real world events and usually ones from local areas.
Hi Bob,
Moving around the room as an excellent tactic to utilize to keep students focused.
Patricia
