Using collar pop vs positive training to train "attention"

I've mostly used positive reinforcement to train my dog and it's gone very well. The trainer I am working with (and I like alot) uses collar pops to train for attention when sitting and healing. Pup doesn't seem to mind the neck pops when sitting, but he looks at me like I've really hurt his feelings and he is confused when I pop for attention when healing. The trainer also doesn't want me to say "look at me" or use my finger held to my nose (which he knows both of these things very well). Her point is to train his eyes not his ears.



I would rather switch to positive reinforcement with a clicker, but if I can't use words how do I correct when he looks away if I don't use a collar pop?

Using collar pop vs positive training to train "attention"