Visual or auditory distractions or teacher mannerisms may distract students from listening. Sometimes you can help students become better listeners simply by making some minor changes in the room environment or in your manner of speaking.
Answer the following questions to see if you are minimizing distractions:
- Are my students facing away from the outside or doorway windows and toward instruction?
- Do my less-attentive students sit nearest to me?
- Is there a way to reduce noise from the hallway or adjoining classrooms? (Perhaps your Sunday School superintendent or pastor can assist.)
- Do I make sure my students have empty hands when it is time to listen?
- Have I removed items that are visually distracting; e.g., neon colors, play items, decorations hanging from the ceiling?
- Am I free of vocal or physical mannerisms that discourage students from listening?
If you have answered no to any of the questions, perhaps you can alter your learning environment to help your students listen more effectively.
