Corynne,absolutely. Great point here on mirroring.
Dr. Jean Norris
I could mirror their way of speaking or find a comomon interest point.
Corynne, thanks for sharing this. I wonder, if you don't mirror their body language, is there something else that you could mirror in order to build a connection with them?
Dr. Jean Norris
Mark, interesting point. So it sounds like you use body language to not only connect with your student but to also show you are listening. Thanks for sharing this.
Dr. Jean Norris
Modeling positive body language is more effective because your student may not always be portraying positive body language for someone to mirror. BY modeling positive body language, perhaps the student can mirror me instead. Also, by showing positive vibes, the student will be more comfortable to open up making communication much more effective.
I feel that both can be effective. Mirroing the students body language is important; however, modeling a positive body language is even better when you would like for your student to understand that you are interested in what they have to say.
Paula, interesting point. Body language can give us some insight to what is really going on with our students so it's important that we not only listen to what is being said, but "listen" with our eyes as well. You give a great example here. Good job.
Dr. Jean Norris
I think it's more effective to mirror your student's body language because it conveys what the student is really thinking. Research has found that 55% of communication is in body language and is more powerful that what's being said. For example, a student may be saying one thing but his/her body language may be telling you something else. For example, a student may be turned away from you and not have good eye contact with you but be saying they understand what you're saying. Their body language is in conflict with what they say and its important for you to address this type of body language. You could perhaps say: "I see that you're concerned about something, talk to me about that".
Leon, thanks for sharing your thoughts here. I wonder, what has been your experience with a student that doesn't follow your modeled approached?
Dr. Jean Norris
I believe that modeling positive body language is more effective for communication simply because this is a great way to build rapport and developing a mutual relationship. There is a time to mirror your students body language but only to achieve a positive outcome.
Robyn, that's a great point. Thanks for sharing it. It sounds like you evaluate the situation and use a technique which suits what's going on around you. This idea of tailoring your approach is right on.
Dr. Jean Norris
I believe that in our roles with students we need to be able to adapt. In many cases, mirroring body language is the best option for effective communication and building rapport. For some students however, we may need to model positive body language in order to help them feel more at ease or to increase their confidence.
David, sure asking questions can certainly help engage the student more.
Dr. Jean Norris
I will continue to ask questions in order to regain the students attention if it seems that the student may be distracted or there is something that I am not answering to whatever question the student may have.
David, thanks for sharing this. Modeling can be an effective tool when you want to show positive behavior. I'm curious, what have you done if a student doesn't follow your lead?
Dr. Jean Norris
I think modeling would be more effective as you can move the student into a better frame of communication if you feel your losing their attention, or regaining their attention.
Kathy, sure. That makes sense. It sounds like you are interested in helping the student find a place that is inviting. I wonder, what have you done if a student doesn't follow along with your body language?
Dr. Jean Norris
Modeling is a more effective form. Many of my students need some convincing to attend school so their body language shows that. I want to portray a comfortable environment for discussion.
Laura, great point. It sounds like you plan to read the student to decide which method to use. By doing this, you will start to build rapport and connect with the student.
Dr. Jean Norris
I feel modeling is most important because if I don't set the mood, then negative student behavior could take control of the outcome. However, using these skills in combination will be most effective. For example, if a student comes in frustrated, unenthusiastic, or uninspired, the last thing I'd want to do is greet them with exuberance. I would choose open, honest body language to create a safe environment for them to open up in. Then, depending on their response, there may be opportunity to mirror their body language.
