Student Engagement Approaches

Active student engagement leads to better learning outcomes than passive learning environments. The actual level of student engagement during a class session isn't readily apparent, even when instructors use active learning techniques.

FREMONT, CA: The past two years have provided abundant evidence of the positive effects of distance education on pupils. During the early days of the pandemic, virtual education systems kept schools operating securely, reduced bullying in some situations, and gave many kids a new sense of autonomy.

However, the impact of returning to class was not the only apparent thing. The distance learning environment deprived students of the opportunity to interact with others and learn hands-only. Students at risk and living in uncertain conditions made it difficult for teachers to connect with them and focus on their schoolwork. All kids missed educational benchmarks, falling behind in math, reading, and science classes.

Administrators and employees at the school worked tirelessly to embrace online learning approaches and provide computers to kids in record time. Nonetheless, some kids had unreliable access to Wi-Fi, others lost loved ones to COVID-19, and many older adolescents obtained employment to support their families. These situations affected mental health outcomes and ultimately caused pupils to lose interest in their classes.

Successful educational results, whether measured by test scores, social-emotional development, or graduation rates, depending on student participation. How can educators, therefore, meet students where they are? How do we correct our course following months of missed educational opportunities and delays?

Methods to reengage students

There is no one correct answer. Demonstrating dedication to students will need numerous methods and open communication, trust, and compassion. Consider the following approaches for educators and administrators.

No two learners are exactly alike. The success percentages of the following proposals may vary depending on classroom size, educational level, and students' backgrounds. With some customization, however, methods such as student ownership and hybrid learning can increase student engagement.

Promote collaboration: The return to school reunites kids with their classmates. Instructors can use socialization to enhance course content instead of allowing it to detract from it. Group projects and partnered learning opportunities encourage teamwork and reestablish social norms after separation.

It's alright to begin modestly. "Think-Pair-Share" has been deemed adequate by numerous educators. Students reflect on their learning, discuss it with a classmate, and then present their conclusions to the entire class. Think-Pair-Share is a five- to ten-minute activity that breaks up the learning day and encourages students to internalize their lessons.

Inspire pupils to assume responsibility: It has been a very long time since class schedules included hour-long lectures and assigned readings. Educators and education specialists now recognize that pupils require more stimulus to avoid daydreaming during class. Therefore, classrooms are ideal for encouraging adolescents who are beginning to realize and test their limitations.

Instructors must plan a lesson to accommodate student choice. If students must demonstrate their understanding of how ecosystems function, provide materials for various final projects, such as a presentation, a written report on a local ecosystem, or the construction of a terrarium.

Instructors must allow students to make decisions, demonstrating that educators value their opinions. It also encourages self-evaluation. Students will consider which project they would thrive in, which will present a challenge, and corresponds to their interests.