‘Engaged pupils are better behaved and more likely to be motivated. They enable teachers to create a more imaginative learning environment and to improve the experience for all. A motivated pupil is more likely to spark interest in other pupils than the class teacher.’ Leadership Dialogues, John West-Burham, Dave Harris 2015

What do you see when you walk around your school? Are pupils engaged and motivated? Do you ever stand back and observe your classes or ask a colleague to check on learner engagement?

What should or could you take a look at? Here is a list (not definitive) of the things you could check to ensure the school and class systems, curriculum and teaching support pupil motivation and involvement:

• Do school/class systems support or hamper learner engagement? Do your class routines aid engagement and motivation?
• Is your curriculum suitably designed? Are lessons relevant to pupils? Are the pupils immersed in work that has a clear meaning?
• Are there different levels of involvement for different groups of pupils? Does the class dynamic help or hinder engagement?
• What is the level of disruption in class? What is the level of disengagement? Can you identify what is leading to this disengagement?
• Does your classroom environment aid the engagement of pupils? Does it motivate them to learn?
• How useful are marking and feedback methods used in class? Do they lead to increased motivation and engagement?
• How relevant are the resources and materials used? How are groupings and seating plans used? Do they help or hinder pupil involvement and motivation?
• What does learner engagement look and feel like? Are pupils encouraged to actively learn?
• How engaged are you as a teacher? How interested are you in what you are teaching?
• Do you focus on raising pupil engagement levels? Do you share strategies for pupil engagement?

‘Student engagement is the product of motivation and active learning. It is a product rather than a sum because it will not occur if either element is missing.’ Barkley, 2010.

This blog was written by Bretta Townend-Jowitt, Education Consultant and Trainer.