What are the best practices for teaching in a virtual classroom?

Okay, so I’m moving my high school history classes completely online for the fall. This is new territory for me. I’m used to lecturing, writing on the whiteboard, and in-person discussions. I’m worried that I won’t be able to keep my students engaged virtually. I’ve tried a few Zoom meetings and it feels like everyone is just…staring.

Specifically, I’m wondering:

• How do I effectively translate my usual active learning strategies to a virtual environment? Think things like group work, debates, and document analysis.
• What are some tips for keeping students motivated and participating? How do I avoid just talking at them for an hour? What are some good icebreakers or energizers?
• What technologies beyond the basic video conferencing platform should I be exploring? Are there any must-have tools for online learning?
• How do I assess student learning effectively without relying solely on traditional exams? I’d love to incorporate more project-based or portfolio assessments.
• What’s the best way to handle tech issues that inevitably arise? I’m thinking about my own internet cutting out, students struggling with their mics, etc.

I’m really nervous about this, so any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Answer

Best Practices for Teaching in a Virtual Classroom

Creating a successful virtual learning environment requires a thoughtful approach that considers the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the online setting. Effective virtual teaching encompasses elements of strong instructional design, engaging delivery, and a focus on building community and supporting student well-being.

I. Instructional Design & Planning

• Clear Learning Objectives: Every lesson or module should begin with explicitly stated learning objectives. Students need to know what they are expected to learn and achieve. Use action verbs to describe measurable outcomes.

• Chunk Content: Break down large amounts of information into smaller, more digestible chunks. This helps students focus and avoid cognitive overload. Incorporate short videos, readings, interactive exercises, and opportunities for reflection within each chunk.

• Variety of Activities: Avoid relying on a single teaching method (e.g., lectures). Incorporate a diverse range of activities to cater to different learning styles and maintain engagement. This might include:

  • Discussions: Use discussion forums or live sessions for collaborative learning. Pose open-ended questions and encourage students to respond to each other.
  • Quizzes and Polls: Use formative assessments to gauge student understanding throughout the lesson. These can be low-stakes and provide immediate feedback.
  • Group Projects: Assign collaborative projects that allow students to apply their knowledge and work together.
  • Individual Assignments: Include individual assignments that allow students to demonstrate their understanding and develop critical thinking skills.
  • Multimedia: Integrate videos, audio recordings, interactive simulations, and other multimedia resources to enhance learning.

• Accessibility: Ensure that all course materials are accessible to students with disabilities. This includes providing transcripts for videos, alt text for images, and ensuring that documents are formatted for screen readers. Adhere to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards.

• Backward Design: Consider using backward design, starting with the desired learning outcomes and then planning the assessments and activities that will help students achieve those outcomes.

• Mobile Optimization: Design content that is easily accessible and viewable on mobile devices, as many students may be accessing the course from smartphones or tablets.

• Course Navigation: Create a clear and intuitive course structure. Use consistent naming conventions for files and folders. Make it easy for students to find the information they need.

II. Delivery & Engagement

• Establish a Regular Schedule: Maintain a consistent schedule for posting announcements, assignments, and holding live sessions. This helps students manage their time and stay on track.

• Prepare Thoroughly: Regardless of experience, preparation is key. Review content, practice presentations, and anticipate potential technical issues.

• Effective Communication: Communicate frequently and clearly with students. Use announcements, email, and discussion forums to provide updates, answer questions, and offer support. Respond to student inquiries promptly.

• Live Sessions (If Applicable): If incorporating live sessions:

  • Start on Time: Begin and end live sessions on time to respect students’ schedules.
  • Use Visual Aids: Use slides, screen sharing, and other visual aids to enhance engagement.
  • Encourage Interaction: Use polls, chat, breakout rooms, and Q&A sessions to encourage student participation.
  • Moderate Chat: Assign a moderator to manage the chat and address student questions.
  • Record Sessions: Record live sessions and make them available to students who cannot attend.

• Humanize the Experience: Share personal anecdotes, use humor appropriately, and show empathy for students’ challenges. Create a welcoming and supportive learning environment.

• Active Learning Techniques: Implement active learning strategies to promote student engagement. Examples include:

  • Think-Pair-Share: Have students think about a question individually, discuss it with a partner, and then share their ideas with the whole class.
  • Muddiest Point: Ask students to identify the most confusing or unclear aspect of the lesson.
  • One-Minute Paper: Have students write a brief summary of what they learned at the end of the lesson.

• Provide Timely Feedback: Provide prompt and constructive feedback on assignments. Feedback should be specific, actionable, and aligned with the learning objectives.

• Use Technology Effectively: Leverage the features of the learning management system (LMS) and other online tools to enhance teaching and learning. Be mindful of the learning curve for students who may be unfamiliar with certain technologies.

III. Community Building & Support

• Create a Welcoming Environment: Foster a sense of community and belonging in the virtual classroom. Encourage students to introduce themselves and share their interests.

• Establish Netiquette Guidelines: Develop clear guidelines for online behavior and communication. Promote respectful and constructive interactions.

• Facilitate Student Interaction: Design activities that encourage students to interact with each other. This could include group projects, discussion forums, or peer review assignments.

• Provide Technical Support: Offer technical support to students who are having difficulty accessing the course or using online tools. Provide clear instructions and troubleshooting tips.

• Promote Well-being: Be mindful of the challenges students may face in the virtual environment, such as isolation, stress, and technical difficulties. Provide resources and support to promote their well-being.

• Office Hours: Offer virtual office hours to provide students with individual support and answer their questions. Be flexible with scheduling to accommodate students in different time zones.

• Encourage Peer Support: Facilitate opportunities for students to connect with each other and provide peer support. Create study groups or online forums where students can ask questions and share resources.

IV. Assessment & Evaluation

• Align Assessments with Learning Objectives: Ensure that all assessments are aligned with the learning objectives and measure students’ understanding of the key concepts.

• Use a Variety of Assessment Methods: Use a mix of formative and summative assessments to gauge student learning. This could include quizzes, exams, projects, presentations, and participation in discussions.

• Provide Clear Grading Rubrics: Provide clear and detailed grading rubrics for all assignments. This helps students understand how their work will be evaluated and what is expected of them.

• Monitor Student Progress: Track student progress throughout the course and identify students who may be struggling. Reach out to these students and offer support.

• Evaluate the Course: Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of the course and make adjustments as needed. Solicit feedback from students and use data to inform your teaching practices.

V. Technology & Tools

• Learning Management System (LMS): Become proficient in using the LMS to manage course content, assignments, grades, and communication.

• Video Conferencing Software: Familiarize yourself with video conferencing tools such as Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams. Learn how to share your screen, use breakout rooms, and manage participants.

• Interactive Whiteboards: Use interactive whiteboards to create engaging and collaborative learning experiences.

• Digital Tools for Assessment: Explore digital tools for creating quizzes, surveys, and other assessments.

• Multimedia Creation Tools: Use multimedia creation tools to create engaging videos, audio recordings, and presentations.

• Accessibility Tools: Utilize accessibility tools to ensure that course materials are accessible to all students.

VI. Continuous Improvement

• Reflect on Teaching Practices: Regularly reflect on your teaching practices and identify areas for improvement.

• Seek Feedback: Solicit feedback from students, colleagues, and mentors.

• Stay Up-to-Date: Stay up-to-date on the latest research and best practices in online teaching.

• Experiment with New Technologies: Be willing to experiment with new technologies and teaching strategies.

• Attend Professional Development: Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance your online teaching skills.