Which practice is recommended for enhancing engagement and understanding in students?

Using questions effectively is essential in fostering engagement and enhancing understanding among students. Asking general and directed questions helps to stimulate discussion, encourages participation, and allows instructors to gauge the students' comprehension of the material being taught.

General questions can invite broader thinking and help students relate the content to their own experiences or opinions. Directed questions, on the other hand, target specific learning objectives and can highlight particular areas where students may need further clarification or support. This interactive approach keeps students attentive and involved in the learning process, making it more likely that they will retain the information being presented.

In contrast, utilizing challenging vocabulary may alienate some students who might not be familiar with those terms, potentially hindering their understanding. Maintaining a formal dress code can establish authority, but it doesn't directly influence student engagement or understanding. Limiting questions to the end of the lesson can stifle interaction and make it difficult for students to clarify their thoughts as they are learning, undermining the educational experience. Thus, the practice of asking general and directed questions is the most effective strategy for enhancing student engagement and comprehension.