I taught Physics lab as a graduate student. I was surprised at how little formal guidance was provided by the University or department on how to teach effective

I taught Physics lab as a graduate student. I was surprised at how little formal guidance was provided by the University or department on how to teach effectively, how to engage with students, etc. My guess about the level of engagement you are observing from the people you're paying: you are giving attention (measured in money) when few other people are demonstrating interest in their specialty.