I believe that modeling positive body language is more effective for communication. As educators, I feel we should be role models for our students. If we display positive body language when dealing with our students they in turn will begin to relax and model our behavior rather than us modeling their behavior. We deal with students in some cases that have very seldom seen what positive body language even looks like or feels like. If we mirror their body language I feel we are only reinforcing the negative role models that they have been exposed to most of their lives. It is up to us to present positive expectations, positive interactions and positive reinforcement to our students. Our students are not scared of failure they are scared of success.
I've already answered this question in the forum...??
Thanks,
Faye
You definitely would be more successful at reaching your goal with the student if you maintain positive body language. You do not wnat to mirror any negative body language, your positive body language may be just the boost they need to turn their negative mood around.
Great observation, Karen. Both modeling and mirroroing can be helpful in improving your connections with others. Mirroring another person can help you to establish similarities and develop trust. This can help you in getting your students to model positive behaviors as you continue to develop your relationship moving forward.
I believe that both are important; however, modeling positive body language is more effective, as sometimes students have negative, closed off body language & it is important to show them that you are open & receptive to what they are talking about.
I think modeling positive body is more important because it sets an example that you want the student to respect, and most students being young haven't developed the social skills to present proper body language or speech yet.
Absolutely, Michael! It's amazing to see the student shift to modeling more postive behaviors/body language.
Great observations, Michael. Presenting yourself in a professional and positive manner is essential when working with your students. Modeling positive body language can help you project that professional persona and the pride you feel for your school. Sometimes, mirroing the students body language initially helps you to establish a connection or similarity between the two of you, which can help put your student at ease. In some instances it can be helpful to mirror the student initially and as you establish a greater connection, model positive body language to help the student shift.
That's a good point. The student will sometimes unintentionally start modeling you.
I think modeling positive body language is the way to go. If the student is slouching or is in a defensive posture, you definitly don't want to copy that. If the student is highly engaged you may become more engaging, but not to the point that you are no longer coming across as a professional. I beleive it is best to be professional and positive.
Excellent, thanks for sharing Connie!
Yes, it definitely has helped and inspired our students!
Great insight, Connie. Believe it or not,simply modeling the student's body language can help form an initial connection with the student. It shows that you are meeting them where they are at and can help ease some of the student's nerves.
Modeling positive body language can bring some sort of "equilibrium" between the staff member and the student, and it can help create a peaceful atmosphere.
Thanks for your insight, Connie. Modeling positive body language can be an effective way of influencing positive communication between you and your student. In your experience, how has modeling body language encouraged and inspired your students in past communication?
Modeling positive body language will always be a more effective way of communicating. It can invoke motivation and inspiration on your students.
It sounds like you prefer to model body behaviors that project your confidence and positive attitude, Chris. That's a great place to start when you begin to build rapport, especially if you sense that the other person is uneasy or nervous. Modeling positive behaviors can help put the other person at ease.
I believe mirroring would definately NOT be the way to go. You must maintain a secure and positive form of body language so that others can feel that you are secure and positive about whatever they arent. It helps them feel as though they can trust you, or confide in you for advice or anything else they may need.
Excellent observation, Nancy. You're right - modeling positive body language is not always easy but it's something that can have a tremendous impact on your interactions with students. What are some of your tips for remembering to model positive body language?
We always need to model positive body language. It will reinfource the verbal message we are giving as well as help the other person to relax and become more open in the conversation. This is not always easy to do but a goal worth working toward.
