Engaging Students Using Brain-Based Techniques

Student engagement is one of the most important aspects of teaching.  It is likely that disengaged students will not learn what is being taught.  Teacher should not expect that students will come to class naturally engaged.  Instead, teachers must naturally and automatically take responsibility for maintaining student engagement every moment of the instructional day.

The research of Dr. Marzano and Dr. Pickering outlined in the book, "The High Engaged Classroom" breaks down instructional strategies into four main questions students ask themselves prior to engaging in learning.      The first two questions, "how do I feel?" and "am I interested," focus on student attention.  The second and third question, "is this important?" and "can I do this?" focus on student engagement.

Practical Implications that can be used to increase student attention include but are not limited to:

• Incorporate physical movement
• Use humor
• Use verbal and non-verbal signals
• Highlight students' interest and accomplishments

Practical Implications that can be used to increase student engagement include but are not limited to: 

• Make comparisons to student interest
• Ask students to compare academic content to their personal interest
• Provide choice
• Real  world application
• Use effective praise and verbal feedback

Student engagement is the key to increasing student achievement.  Educators must consciously and continuously research and implement new strategies designed to keep students focused, attentive and engaged throughout each lesson, transition and learning activity.


References

Marzano, R. J., & Pickering, D. J. (2011). The High Engaged Classroom. Bloomington, IN:  Marzano Research Laboratory.

The Highly Engaged Classroom (Image). (2009) Retrieved June 7, 2013, from http://www.marzanoresearch.com/products/catalog.aspx?product=70