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If a listener nods his head when you're explaining your…

“If a listener nods his head when you're explaining your program, wake him up.” quote by Alan Perlis
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“If a listener nods his head when you're explaining your program, wake him up.”

Alan Perlis

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A nodding listener may be disengaged; keep them alert.

In simple terms: Passive listening signals loss of attention.

Key Takeaway

Engage listeners with active prompts.

Themes

communication attention teaching feedback engagement

Mood

reflective practical instructive

Type

teaching tip communication advice

When to use this quote

  • classroom teaching
  • team meetings
  • public speaking
  • training sessions

Key Concepts

educational psychology listener behavior presentation skills

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you tell genuine from perfunctory nods?
  • What techniques keep audiences alert?
A Different Perspective

Some nods are genuine agreement, not disengagement.

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