Description of Teachers’ Nonverbal Cues Used in Classroom Interaction

Abstract

This study focused on describing the nonverbal cues used by teachers in classroom interaction. The study analyzed teachers’ nonverbal cues in classroom interaction with a view of establishing the various messages communicated by these nonverbal cues. Through purposive sampling,15 teachers,5 from each of the 3 selected secondary schools in Mombasa County were selected to participate in the study. The data for the study was collected through observation of the actual classroom setting and video recording. Data analysis was guided by Birdwhistell’s (1952) Kinesics Theory. The findings showed that teachers used various nonverbal cues during classroom interaction which convey meaning in addition to verbal messages. This is vital as it enriches the communication between teachers and students in classroom interaction.