A study was conducted at Valdosta State University in Valdosta, Georgia, during Fall Semester, 1998, to determine students’ perceptions of gender differences in several areas of nonverbal communication. Specifically, the areas of eye contact, gestures, smiles, personal space, touch, and interpretation of nonverbal cues were examined. To collect data, a survey instrument was administered to 387 undergraduate students in 18 sections of classes. In addition to demographic information, the students responded to 28 items. Data were analyzed using the …showed first 75 words of 599 total…

…showed last 75 words of 599 total…literature, all experts agreed that, in fact, females are better interpreters of nonverbals. Burgoon, Buller, and Woodall (1996) described women as being more sensitive communicators. And Ivy and Backlund (1994) conclude that women more actively communicate the importance of relationships by using a number of verbal and nonverbal channels. Teachers should be aware of gender differences in the classroom to help students develop an awareness of nonverbal communication–particularly what is appropriate nonverbal behavior in the workplace