Which of the following techniques is essential for building student trust?

Building student trust is fundamentally linked to effective communication, and one of the most powerful techniques in this regard is establishing eye contact. Eye contact conveys sincerity, attentiveness, and respect, which are critical components of a trusting relationship between a teacher and their students. When a teacher maintains appropriate eye contact, it makes students feel seen and valued, fostering an environment where they are more likely to share their thoughts and engage openly with the material.

While hand gestures can enhance communication by adding emphasis and clarity, they do not in themselves create the deeper sense of trust that eye contact does. Drawing can serve as a useful tool for illustrating concepts, but it is less about trust and more about visual learning. A loud voice may capture attention but can sometimes be perceived as aggressive or intimidating, which may undermine trust instead of building it. Therefore, eye contact stands out as a crucial element in cultivating a trustworthy rapport with students.