Answer:

Active Listening in the Classroom

Active listening is a communication technique used in classrooms to increase understanding between students and teachers. It involves paying close attention to what is being said, verbally and non-verbally, and reflecting back the message to ensure understanding. This technique can also be used to help create a more collaborative classroom environment and foster better relationships between students and teachers.

Focus on Non-Verbal Cues

One of the primary focuses of active listening in the classroom is paying attention to non-verbal cues. Verbal communication is only one part of the communication process, and non-verbal cues can often provide valuable insight into the thoughts and feelings of the speaker. Body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice can all provide important clues as to what the speaker may be feeling or thinking. By paying attention to non-verbal cues, active listening can help to foster a more collaborative classroom environment as the teacher is better able to understand the needs and feelings of their students.

Focus on Understanding

Another focus of active listening in the classroom is to ensure that the speaker is understood. Active listening is not about simply listening to what is being said, but about making sure that the message is understood. This involves reflecting back the message and asking clarifying questions if necessary to check for understanding. This can be done by repeating back what has been said or by paraphrasing the message in one’s own words. This ensures that both the speaker and the listener are on the same page and can move forward with the conversation.

Focus on Empathy

The final focus of active listening in the classroom is to foster empathy. Active listening is about being present in the moment and understanding the speaker’s feelings and needs. This can be done by repeating back what has been said and adding in validating comments such as “I understand how you feel” or “It sounds like you are going through a difficult time”. This helps to create an atmosphere of trust and understanding and can help to foster better relationships between students and teachers.

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