5 Ways to Increase Student Engagement in your Classroom!

Check out my video on 5 Ways to Re-engage learners!

There is no doubt that student engagement matters. In fact, it is considered to be one of the most important factors in promoting academic success and well-being. Research has shown that students who are engaged in their education are more likely to have positive outcomes, such as higher grades, improved attendance, and better social and emotional well-being.

In addition, engaged students are more likely to develop a strong sense of self-efficacy, which is the belief in one’s ability to succeed in any situation. This in turn leads to increased motivation and persistence whenever faced with a challenge. Engagement not only makes students gritty and develop a growth mindset, but it also promotes critical thinking skills and helps students make connections between the material they are learning and the real world. 

Engagement in the classroom is students taking part in the learning experience.  In my class, I often tell my students “whoever does the most talking”.. and they respond “does the most learning”.  But students’ talking alone is not enough to foster engagement.  Teachers often use strategies such as equity sticks, randomized name pickers, cold calls, etc… but nothing fosters student engagement more than how you design instruction.  

Here are my 5 Ways to Increase Student Engagement:

1. Make lessons interactive: Encourage students to actively participate in class by asking open-ended questions, conducting group discussions, and incorporating hands-on activities. This helps students stay focused and engaged in the learning process.

2. Personalize learning: Get to know your students’ individual interests, strengths, and needs. Use this information to create lessons that are tailored to their unique learning styles and incorporate their interests.

3. Encourage collaboration: Group work can be a highly effective way to increase student engagement. Encourage students to work together on projects, assignments, and class discussions. This helps build teamwork skills and helps students learn from one another.

4. Use technology: Incorporate technology into your lessons to make them more interactive and engaging. This can include using online resources, interactive whiteboards, or educational apps.

5. Offer choice: Giving students choices in the learning process can help increase their engagement. Offer different options for assignments, such as podcasts, ted talks, and Youtube videos; allow students to choose topics for research projects, and provide opportunities for students to take the lead on class discussions. When students feel a sense of ownership and control over their learning, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated.

Student engagement not only leads to higher cognitive achievement but can positively impact students’ mental health and reduce stress levels. When students are actively engaged in their learning and feel a sense of connection to their school and classmates, they are more likely to feel a sense of belonging and a positive school climate.

Overall, the research highlights the importance of student engagement in promoting academic success, personal growth, and well-being. By prioritizing engagement in the classroom, teachers can create a positive and supportive learning environment that encourages students to reach their full potential.