Education Uganda Project #31562

Empower a Girl: For Self-Reliance

by Kole Intellectual Forum

Project Report | Dec 6, 2025
Teacher proximity: A powerful tool

By George Obua | Project Leader

The closeness of teachers to the students

Teacher proximity: A powerful tool

This is a situation that instructors tend to move closer to students primarily to enhance student engagement, improve behavior management, and foster stronger teacher-student relationships. This physical movement, known as teacher proximity, serves as a powerful non-verbal communication tool that yields positive impacts to the learning environment. Teacher proximity dwells on the:

Improved Behavior Management: Proximity acts as an effective non-verbal strategy to deter off-task or disruptive behavior without needing verbal intervention. Moving strategically around the room creates a sense of accountability and allows potential issues to be addressed subtly before they escalate.
Increased Student Engagement and Motivation: Teacher movement helps to break down psychological and physical barriers, making the instructor appear more approachable. This encourages more active participation, increases student effort, and fosters an environment of shared responsibility and focus.
Stronger Teacher-Student Relationships: Being physically closer allows for more personal, informal interactions and check-ins with individual students or groups. These small moments help build trust and rapport, which is fundamental for creating a supportive learning environment that leads to better academic and social outcomes.
Enhanced Formative Assessment: Moving around the classroom allows the instructor to observe student progress and understanding in real-time. By listening to discussions and observing problem-solving strategies, teachers can gain valuable insights and adjust their teaching approach on the go to meet varied student needs (differentiated instruction).

Creation of a Dynamic Learning Environment: Mobility allows instructors to utilize the entire classroom space, moving away from a static, front-of-the-room teaching model. This flexibility supports various activities, such as group projects and student-led presentations, and keeps the environment fresh and engaging

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