I believe it is very possible for our body language and tone to offend students. If we appear unapproachable, they won't want to ask us questions. If we talk to them disrespectfully with our tone, even if our words are respectful, the children do get upset and offended. How we come to class and our attitudes are a major part of how the students view us and how they will address and relate to us.
Yes, it is possible for your body language and tone to offend students. Students are more likely to read your body language than listen to the words that come out of educators mouth. It may seem juvenile but its a fact. Too many times students are discouraged by their teachers based on their actions. This concepts also applies outside of the classroom. Body language can speak louder than actual words.
I think that out body language always ends up telling more about how we think than we would like. Most people pick up on this, but they also pick up on it if we try to conciously change out body language to convey a different feeling. In answer to your question, I think body language CAN offend, but not as much as tone. Body language is an indication of a feeling whereas tone is much more obvious sign of feeling.
Body language and tone of voice often affect students´ perceptions of their teachers´ attitudes. Students remember eye rolls and shoulder slumps as much as they remember rude, disappointed, or excited tones of voice. Teachers should be careful to think about the long term effects of their actions before they make a gesture or say something in the moment.
I believe it is very possible for our body language and tone to offend students. If we appear unapproachable, they won't want to ask us questions. If we talk to them disrespectfully with our tone, even if our words are respectful, the children do get upset and offended. How we come to class and our attitudes are a major part of how the students view us and how they will address and relate to us.
ReplyDeleteYes, it is possible for your body language and tone to offend students. Students are more likely to read your body language than listen to the words that come out of educators mouth. It may seem juvenile but its a fact. Too many times students are discouraged by their teachers based on their actions. This concepts also applies outside of the classroom. Body language can speak louder than actual words.
ReplyDeleteI think that out body language always ends up telling more about how we think than we would like. Most people pick up on this, but they also pick up on it if we try to conciously change out body language to convey a different feeling. In answer to your question, I think body language CAN offend, but not as much as tone. Body language is an indication of a feeling whereas tone is much more obvious sign of feeling.
ReplyDeleteBody language and tone of voice often affect students´ perceptions of their teachers´ attitudes. Students remember eye rolls and shoulder slumps as much as they remember rude, disappointed, or excited tones of voice. Teachers should be careful to think about the long term effects of their actions before they make a gesture or say something in the moment.
ReplyDelete