JoMarie,
There are a couple of techniques that the more experienced trainers here on the forum use most often. First, though, are you in formal obedience classes? That is the best way to get your dog used to paying attention to you no matter what - I would definitely encourage you to sign up for classes. Your instructor will be able to work with you, one on one, to resolve any problems.
Have you taught the "watch me" command? That's the most popular way of teaching your dog to focus on you. If you google "watch me command," you'll come across several articles that explain how to teach the command. Note that you need to start in a
non-distracting environment first! Only after you're reliable in that setting, do you start asking for longer attention periods and attention in more distracting circumstances. Also, keep in mind that it is likely unfair to expect your dog to stare unwaveringly at you during an entire walk -- after all, a major purpose of the walk is for your dog to enjoy the outdoors. The "watch me" command should just be used to get you through tough spots, so to speak.
Other members have had great success using the method explained in the book "Control Unleashed" by Leslie McDevitt. Essentially, this method rewards the dog for looking at a distraction then voluntarily redirecting his attention to you. The book is available on
Welcome to Dogwise.com - Dog Books.
Bottom line, developing good attention from your dog is a long process. It will require patience as you teach the dog the behavior, then help reinforce it in more stimulating circumstances.
Good luck!