Being a teacher is a difficult job during current times. COVID-19 has caused schools and universities to close and reopen multiple times, making teachers switch between online and in-person classes with limited help. In spite of this, teachers have reacted remarkably, dedicating themselves to ensuring that learning has continued to the best of their abilities. Now that students are back in the classrooms, educators must find new ways to keep their students engaged in lectures and seminars. It’s no longer possible to just mute someone’s Zoom account to maintain order, so more traditional methods must be employed. To help teachers, here are the top 10 tips for keeping students engaged and attentive during lessons.
Get Your Students’ Opinions and Ask Questions
One of the most effective ways to engage students is by asking them to give their own opinions on the learning materials. Doing so will allow them to critically analyze the materials and make their own decisions. This is a great way to instill healthy skepticism and focus on the importance of good study. Some students might be hesitant to contribute to class discussions, so establish an environment where they are encouraged to participate. Even if they are unsure, they will feel comfortable providing their opinion. This can be done through the establishment of an environment wherein questions are asked, and students are encouraged to offer their own analysis.
Tailor Your Teaching to the Knowledge Level of Your Students
If your lecture material is too advanced or too basic for your students to follow, then they will quickly get bored. To prevent this, try to make your lessons more engaging by determining the level of ability of your students. For example, administering a preliminary test before your first class can be a fun way to do this. Doing so will help ensure that the lecture material is neither too basic nor too advanced for the students to comprehend.
Get Students to Present Work Themselves
One of the best methods to understand something is said to be through teaching, and this can be applied to help students learn. Have each student present a concise overview of the subject you are teaching for the semester, and use this as a way to kick off the lessons. To ensure this approach is successful, create a comfortable, inviting environment; make sure this is a priority.
Incorporate Multimedia Such as Video or Audio Clips
Although the pandemic has passed, it’s still important to keep in mind that students should still use multimedia in their lessons. This can be done through the addition of audio or video clips. Implementing these can help reinvigorate the traditional text-based format of most lectures and make them more engaging for those who are more visual learners.
Encourage Group Discussion
It is essential that your students take an active part in their learning instead of just passively listening to you. Break up your lectures by having the class divide into smaller groups of 3-6 and let them discuss the topic. After 10-5 minutes, ask each group to report the most interesting points from the conversation, which can lead to further class discussion.
Consider Altering the Structure of Your Classes
Many studies have shown that it is difficult for us to focus for longer than an hour. To make the best of the time you have, it is a good idea to break the class into smaller portions. For example, if you have only an hour to teach, start with a 15-minute introduction to the topic, then give students 10 minutes to review the material. Follow this up with a 20-minute discussion in small groups, and wrap up with a 15-minute class discussion. Varying the format will help keep students engaged.
Set up a Debate
Any topic that has a lot of controversial ideas will likely have a debate. To help students develop their critical thinking and argumentation skills, try having them split the class into two and ask them to present opposing sides of an issue. Even if they don’t agree with the other side, this can be a great way to practice their skills.
Take Breaks or Switch up the Setting during a Long Class
One of the most common reasons students fail to finish a three-hour lecture is that they are incapable of focusing completely for such a long period of time. To help students relax and get some needed rest, try implementing short breaks throughout the course. These can be as little as five minutes or as long as 10.
Proved Worksheets for Students So They Don’t Have to Write It All Down
Some teachers are pleased to see that students scribble notes during class, as it shows that they are focused. Others say that students are not engaging in the material if they merely copy everything they hear. To help students think about the lessons that you are teaching, try providing them with pre-written copies of the slides. This will allow them to ask questions and comment while you are teaching.
Make Use of Technology
Use all the knowledge you gained during the pandemic to your advantage. Utilize the amazing technological tools that make your teaching more exciting. For instance, your school may have an online content management system such as Moodle or Blackboard where you can share materials and start conversations for your class. You could also try out an app like Socrative to generate instant polls for use in class. In any case, always be aware of ways technology can be incorporated into the classroom to make it livelier. Your students will be sure to show their involvement.