What method can teachers use to measure student engagement?

Observing student participation in class discussions is an effective method for measuring student engagement because it provides real-time insight into how actively students are involved in the learning process. This observation allows teachers to see not only who is participating but also the quality of their contributions, which can indicate their level of understanding and interest in the material being taught.

Engagement can manifest through various behaviors, such as asking questions, offering answers, and interacting with peers, which all reflect a student's cognitive and emotional investment in the lesson. By closely monitoring these interactions, teachers can adjust their instructional strategies to increase engagement, support those who may be struggling, and create a more inclusive learning environment.

Other methods mentioned in the options, such as analyzing standardized test scores or conducting formal evaluations, provide a more retrospective view of student performance rather than an immediate assessment of engagement. Refraining from interaction during lessons would likely lead to disengagement, as it removes the opportunities for students to participate and connect with the content. Thus, observing student participation in discussions stands out as the most direct and effective way to gauge student engagement in the moment.