Can online classes be as fun, engaging and effective as in-person classes? The answer is a big yes! Teachers who deliver classes in a virtual space are required to use completely different skillsets compared to those used to teach in “traditional” classrooms. Connecting via webcam isn’t always easy and it takes creativity to keep students’ brains stimulated. The question teachers often ask is: “How can I make the online classroom experience more exciting for my students?”
We have brought you 5 tips to help you increase engagement in the classroom:
1. Make the most of your lessons
2. Take advantage of technology
3. Be patient with your students
4. Get to know your students
5. Make them feel comfortable
1. Make the most of your lessons
In the era of technology, there are plenty of tools at your disposal which can help you make the same learning experience as in a physical classroom. The whiteboard, visuals and videos are among the tools we use to accelerate the improvement of our students. Make sure you select topics that match your students’ interests – most of them want to talk about current topics by which they can pick up the vocabulary used by native speakers in everyday life situations. Role-plays are also among the favourite activities since they are interactive and often challenging. Make sure the classes are dynamic so that students forget the distractions they are surrounded by.
2. Take advantage of technology
First of all, make sure you know how to use virtual tools and explain them to your students as well, so they feel confident with using them too. By teaching online you can develop your skills since you have a whole load of amazing tools at your fingerprint. They come in handy when you are out of ideas and you have to think outside the box to liven up your classes and entice your students. Whether you use whiteboards, screen-sharing tools, or text editors, you can use the technology you have to make your lessons more intriguing and keep your students on their toes.
3. Be patient with your students
Keeping your students engaged and stimulated is no easy task. While kids don’t have very high attention spans, adults might be worn out after a long day at work. Remember; this is totally normal, so try to be empathetic. Give them a break and ensure them of your support. Students can easily spot if they are annoyed or frustrated as the lesson is not going according to plan.
Your empathetic and understanding side will make you stand out!
4. Get to know your students
Just like in any other face-to-face classroom, the key thing is to find out what inspires your students, and what they are passionate about in their life. The information you gather will not only help you create a good rapport with them but also facilitate the selection of materials you aim to use for your classes.
Don’t be afraid to experiment – you might have to try different things until you find something that works for them.
5. Make them feel comfortable and valued
Each and every student is different. Some are very chatty, whereas others may seem a bit timid and reserved. As their teacher, it is your responsibility to create an environment in which they feel at ease. Make sure you are kind and tactful. Nothing is better than a caring teacher who is always at their students’ disposal. If your students feel isolated in the classroom, they quickly become demotivated and are likely to leave the course.
Here are some tips:
– Learn your students’ names and make sure they learn yours as well
– Follow up on what you did in previous lessons so your students know you’re on top of what they’re learning
– Find out about your student’s interests and incorporate them into the lessons where possible
– Give them feedback and correct their errors so they can avoid repeating them
– Be encouraging, positive and more importantly present
Teaching online requires a great deal of creativity.
However, hard work pays off. With a little time and effort, your students will be getting the best experience possible and they will be excited to log into your classroom.
To recap, here are the 5 ways to increase engagement in the virtual space:
1. Make the most of your lessons
2. Take advantage of technology
3. Be patient with your students
4. Get to know your students
5. Make them feel comfortable
We hope these five suggestions will help you create a cosier environment for your students in the classroom.