Effective eye contact in teaching helps to gauge what aspect?

Effective eye contact is a vital tool in teaching, primarily because it fosters a connection between the instructor and the students. When an instructor maintains eye contact, it enables them to assess the level of student comprehension in real-time. This means the instructor can read non-verbal cues such as facial expressions, body language, and attentiveness, which provide insights into whether students are following the lesson, grasping concepts, or struggling with certain material.

Understanding student comprehension is crucial for any educator, as it informs how to adjust instruction dynamically. For example, if an instructor notices confused expressions or lack of engagement from students, they may choose to clarify points, pause for questions, or modify their teaching approach to better address the needs of the class. This immediate feedback loop created through eye contact can significantly enhance the effectiveness of teaching and ensure that students receive the support they need to succeed.