Do you have the body language of a good teacher? Or is this you?
Using Drama Skills in the Classroom by James Hanley
All teachers can use appropriate body language to create the desired atmosphere within their classrooms, for example:
* Exaggerating movements when explaining something to the whole class. This should capture and hold the students’ attention and can be used to emphasize important points.
* Walking towards the person who is talking, even if it is only one or two steps. This can have an incredibly positive effect on individuals, boosting self-esteem by physically demonstrating an interest in what they say.
* Responding by smiling and nodding when a student is talking.
* Keeping eye contact with the student who is talking and showing enthusiasm with facial expressions.
* Walking around the room during a discussion so that the whole class feels involved.
* Avoiding ‘closed’ body language (such as folding arms) and physical signals that can distract from the learning process, for example: constantly checking the time or looking at paperwork that has nothing to do with the lesson.
It is easy to forget that students absorb more information from what they physically see than from what they actually hear. It is also important to remember that nonverbal communication is generally thought to be more‘honest’ than verbal communication; if your body language is positive then students are more likely to trust you.
Students with Disabilities
When you are considering your movement and body language while teaching, remember that not all students have the same needs. Be aware of all of your students needs. Can they hear you, see you, and physically access you and the necessary materials for the project? Are some students more sensitive to sound or motion than others?
Cultural Considerations and Body Language
In North America, for instance, we commonly use our arms and hands to say good-bye, point, count, express excitement, beckon, warn away, threaten, insult etc. In fact, we learn many subtle variations of each of these gestures and use them situationally. We use our head to say yes or no, to smile, frown, and wink acknowledgment or flirtation. Our head and shoulder in combination may shrug to indicate that we do not know something. While the meaning of some gestures, such as a smile, may be the same throughout the world, the meaning of others may be completely different. (See full article on Hidden Aspects of Communication.)
Also keep in mind that some students may a history of physical abuse. Be comfortable with your students, but respect their personal space. Be aware of students’ physical comfort or discomfort with you.
FREE WORKSHEET FOR FUN FOR YOU!
Keep all this info in mind, but don’t let it take away from the fun of being in a room full of young artists. Use this free worksheet to draw the face and body gestures of your Perfect Teaching You.