handraising

Handraising is a nonverbal gesture in which a person raises one hand, usually with the palm open, to signal a request to participate, to gain attention, or to indicate agreement. It is used in various social and institutional contexts, and in modern settings it can also refer to the digital action of signaling in virtual meetings.

Contexts for handraising include classrooms, meetings, conferences, and legislative assemblies. In classrooms, students raise a hand to ask a question or to obtain permission to speak, and teachers may call on students in a particular order or according to established rules. In meetings and assemblies, raising a hand or using a vote-by-raising-hand mechanism indicates support or opposition. In some cultures, the gesture also functions as a sign of greeting or respect, while in others it primarily signals a desire to speak.

Etiquette and interpretation depend on context. The raised hand is typically acknowledged by a moderator or speaker before the person is allowed to speak. It is generally courteous to keep the gesture visible, avoid shouting, and wait for recognition rather than interrupting. Overuse can disrupt proceedings, and many settings impose time limits or turn-taking rules to manage participation.

Variations and accessibility considerations exist. The form of the gesture can differ by culture and setting, and in digital environments a raised-hand icon often substitutes for the physical gesture. Handraising can be less accessible for people with certain mobility or communication differences, so alternative methods (such as signaling or using microphones) may be used to ensure inclusive participation.