. Taliya Sajjad; . Humaira Fayyaz Khan; . Rahila Yasmeen; . Arfaa Waqas
Volume 13, Issue 2 , February 2023, , Pages 1-6
Abstract
BACKGROUND: A teacher’s appropriate use of nonverbal communication skills, mainly kinesics, canplay a crucial role in the success of the students. Medical educators are unaware ...
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BACKGROUND: A teacher’s appropriate use of nonverbal communication skills, mainly kinesics, canplay a crucial role in the success of the students. Medical educators are unaware of the effective useof nonverbal communication as an instructional skill that can be used to engage learners, balancelearners’ participation by controlling the classroom environment, and motivate them to have a passionfor learning. The purpose of the study was to explore the students’ perceptions regarding the effectof teachers’ kinesics on students’ learning and their learning environment. This can be helpful forteachers in modifying their teaching styles and delivering quality education.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A qualitative study with an exploratory design was conducted at aprivate medical institute in 2021 for a duration of 6 months. Fourteen medical students volunteeredto participate in the study. Focus group discussions were conducted with the students to explore theexperiences of the medical students regarding the use of nonverbal communication skills by theirteachers and its effect on their learning in the classroom. The data collected was analyzed manually.RESULTS: The results of the study revealed that teachers’ nonverbal behaviors in the classroomsignificantly influence students’ motivation, engagement, and learning in the classroom. Studentspreferred interaction with the teachers who were friendly and confident and used their nonverbalcommunication skills (eye contact, facial expressions, hand gestures) effectively, compared to strictand judgmental teachers.CONCLUSION: Teachers need to motivate their students by improving their teaching styles andincorporating nonverbal behaviors positively in the classroom. By creating an impactful learningenvironment, students’ participation and learning will increase, which will, in turn, improve theiracademic performance.
