Journal of Education and Health Promotion

Language of actions: The effects of teacher’s kinesics on student learning and learning environment

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

. Taliya Sajjad 1
. Humaira Fayyaz Khan 2
. Rahila Yasmeen 3
. Arfaa Waqas 4

1 Ripha International University

2 Department of Physiology, Islamic International Medical College, Rawalpindi, Pakistan

3 Medical Education, Riphah International University, Islamabad, Pakistan

4 Department of Anatomy, Army Medical College, Rawalpindi, Pakistan

Abstract
BACKGROUND: A teacher’s appropriate use of nonverbal communication skills, mainly kinesics, can
play a crucial role in the success of the students. Medical educators are unaware of the effective use
of nonverbal communication as an instructional skill that can be used to engage learners, balance
learners’ participation by controlling the classroom environment, and motivate them to have a passion
for learning. The purpose of the study was to explore the students’ perceptions regarding the effect
of teachers’ kinesics on students’ learning and their learning environment. This can be helpful for
teachers in modifying their teaching styles and delivering quality education.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A qualitative study with an exploratory design was conducted at a
private medical institute in 2021 for a duration of 6 months. Fourteen medical students volunteered
to participate in the study. Focus group discussions were conducted with the students to explore the
experiences of the medical students regarding the use of nonverbal communication skills by their
teachers 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 classroom
significantly influence students’ motivation, engagement, and learning in the classroom. Students
preferred interaction with the teachers who were friendly and confident and used their nonverbal
communication skills (eye contact, facial expressions, hand gestures) effectively, compared to strict
and judgmental teachers.
CONCLUSION: Teachers need to motivate their students by improving their teaching styles and
incorporating nonverbal behaviors positively in the classroom. By creating an impactful learning
environment, students’ participation and learning will increase, which will, in turn, improve their
academic performance.

Keywords

Kinesics
learning environment
medical education
nonverbal communication
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Journal of Education and Health Promotion
Volume 13, Issue 2
February 2023
Pages 1-6

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