Keeping Students Engaged is an essential resource for faculty seeking to enhance student engagement in their courses. This remarkable book, published by Stylus Publishing, provides practical, research-grounded strategies that are not only effective but also endorsed by students themselves. Through the unique inclusion of student narratives, the author Christine Harrington reveals how specific faculty actions can lead to transformed attitudes, stronger connections among peers, and a deeper understanding of course material.

The book is thoughtfully structured to address key moments and opportunities for increasing student engagement. For instance, it begins with the crucial first day of class, which sets the tone for students’ overall attitudes throughout the course. Harrington emphasizes the importance of first impressions and how they can greatly influence students’ perceptions and willingness to engage.

Moreover, the text delves into innovative approaches for rethinking assignments and revitalizing teaching strategies. It provides actionable insights into how to offer constructive feedback that not only builds students’ confidence but also encourages them to immerse themselves more deeply in their studies. The rationale behind each strategy is clearly outlined, ensuring that faculty can understand the ‘why’ behind the recommendations.

One of the standout features of this book is the inclusion of real student stories. These narratives serve to validate the practices discussed and offer invaluable perspectives from the learner’s viewpoint. Readers will find a wealth of ideas and practices that they can adapt to meet their specific needs and those of their students.

In light of the changing demographics of today’s undergraduate and graduate student population—characterized by increased racial diversity, older students, and many who are employed—Harrington emphasizes the necessity of engaging all students. She shares numerous strategies designed to reach every learner, regardless of their background or circumstances.

While many of the strategies were originally developed for face-to-face teaching environments, a significant portion of the ideas can be adapted for online teaching as well. This flexibility makes the book a valuable resource for educators in a variety of teaching contexts.

Grounded in student-centered active learning principles, the content is organized to allow readers to quickly identify relevant practices that can be implemented in specific scenarios or integrated into an entire course. The language used throughout the book is accessible and free of jargon, ensuring that all faculty, regardless of their experience level, can benefit from the insights provided.

Overall, Keeping Students Engaged serves as a springboard for all faculty members looking for innovative ideas that will captivate their students, enhance engagement, and ultimately lead to a richer learning experience across all levels and subjects.