Students are not engaged in the classroom because they don't understand the relevance of the class. This helps me understand the need to ensure that I am connecting everything we do in class to real world. Making sure they understand the why and making sure that all of my assignments are relevant and not just time fillers.
There are so many strategies for all different students. Be mindful to include all students and think about each one's background each day as they come into class.
practice patience, Remain calm and be clear and direct response
The center stage student is helpful at first but can hinder other students learning throughout the semester. The use it or lose it cards could be helpful for these students.
I like the suggestions this part of the module had for dealing with different types of students. I will implement some of them. I have already faced some of the challenges and feel better equipped after going through this part of the module. I also learned the different types of students and how to deal with each type.
Helped me see that students sometimes need us to slow down and make a connection to them and their issue because sometimes our teaching is the issue. Sometimes we get caught up in the "perfect" student and forget we have run off and left some behind.
This module helped me understand that managing students isn’t just about discipline. It is about relationships and awareness. I learned how important it is to first reflect on my own approach before reacting to student behavior. Sometimes a small change in how I communicate or show support can make a big difference. I also realized that every student has a story behind their actions, and finding the right strategy, whether it’s encouragement, structure, or accountability can help them succeed. Moving forward, I plan to be more intentional about observing students’ needs and addressing issues with patience and empathy.
I agree that student's level of engagement often reflects how the instructor approaches the situation. As educators, it's important to first reflect on our own methods and ensure we're using strategies that connect with each student's learning style. External factors can definitely influence behavior and focus, but when we stay aware, patient, and flexible, we can find ways to re-engage them. Building trust and creating a positive classroom environment are key to helping students refocus and feel supported.
Ambiguity is interpreted negatively.
Keeping them engaged by creating activities to participate in is crucial
I am truly intrigued by the use of the observer and colored cards. My classes are usually on the smaller side, so it is easier for me to engage the students, but having a tool to rein in the center stagers would be most helpful.
Clearly outlining expectations can help maintain a positive classroom environment by keeping students focused on the tasks they know are expected from them.
One of the pros of having smaller class sizes is that everyone is visible and relatively close to the instructor. I definitely work to make eye contact with all my students because the size allows for this and I can engage students who space out a little more easily.
I really appreciated the information on center-stage students because I have had a few of those since beginning teaching. It gave me some good ideas for the future, such as having cards to limit the number of comments students can make or giving them a task that will occupy their time somewhat.
I really like the idea of talking cards. Allows all students to have time to speak
I like the idea of giving 5 cards to students to reduce all of the repetitive questions or nonsense questions.
Learning and applying various strategies to every student situation is important in managing and providing a positive classroom environment conducive to learning.
How to deal with the "center state" student was greatly beneficial. I always struggle with trying not to discourage their attentiveness and willingness to discuss topics.
Never thought of using a turns to speak card issue approach to containing overly talkative students and balancing the number of speaking opportunities with less Verbally involved students. I may have to pilot this approach in one of my courses soon. Thank you for the suggestions.
The number one cause for students not being engaged in the classroom or not paying attention, etc. is the instructor and the way the situation is being handled. You must first evaluate that you have done everything you can do to engage and motivate them. Once you have done that, you can then determine a course of action to get the student on track. External pressures often affect the students' performance as well. Determining your part and whether or not external pressures are having an effect, you can then begin working on specific strategies to get the student on track.
I like the idea of calling cards to limit the outbursts of my spotlight students
