The Startle Method to Promote Student Attention and Reduce Off-Task Student Behavior

The startle method is another intervention a teacher can use to promote student attention and reduce off-task student behavior. Here is an example of the startle method might be utilized in the classroom,. Let’s assume the class is watching a movie, and several students are dozing off to sleep. The teacher suddenly stops the movie, turns on the lights, and poses a question. Hence, via the startle move, the focus of student attention is changed and the teacher can redirect students to on-task behavior.

On the next post we will discuss how teachers can use the name of a student to promote student attention and reduce off-task behavior.