Silent Stare
Silent Stare is a behavioural correction technique. Common features of corrections (as opposed to consequences) are that they:
Are as low-key as possible – avoid sledgehammers to crack nuts.
Are as positive as possible – strictness doesn’t mean ‘horrible’.
Are directed at specific individuals – don’t correct the whole class when you don’t have to.
Cause minimal disruption to the flow of lesson – make it quick and keep it light.
With this technique, rather than reprimand a student for poor behaviour during a presentation, you pause and focus your gaze on the student in question. Assuming the student then stops the misbehaviour, you say ‘Thanks’ and/or smile, to help finish the exchange with a positive.
Why use this technique?
Silent Stare helps the student who is misbehaving (and others) appreciate you have clocked the behaviour and would like it to stop. It fits the ‘corrections brief’ of being low-key, positive, directed at a specific individual, and minimally disruptive to the flow of a lesson.
Focused reflection
How well do you currently use this technique?
Is it a technique you will focus on developing?
If so, what are the key features you will focus on (things to do, and not do)?