(Newswire.net — July 20, 2022) –Due to COVID-19, many universities quickly transitioned to remote learning in order to keep their students safe. While the rushed decision proved to be difficult for many students and professors alike, there was plenty of good that came from it. Many students, who have otherwise shied away from online courses, had discovered a new preference for online learning. As a result, the interest in online courses has skyrocketed – universities now offer more remote courses than ever before. With that, the library of remote tools and software has grown. From large file sharing platforms to virtual whiteboards, professors now have access to many innovative tools that help them collaborate with students and streamline the entire remote learning experience. In this article, we share some of the tools and techniques for managing and motivating a remote college classroom. Keep reading to learn more.
Important Things to Know When Teaching a Remote Classroom
While many in-person classes have resumed, the COVID-19 pandemic is not technically over. We have seen the fatality rate drop, but confirmed cases are still popping up worldwide. Students may elect to continue remote learning for this reason. Be sensitive around this issue – you may find that some students learn better in a remote environment, as it can remove many stress factors for them that they would otherwise have to deal with. Outside of external stressors, there are three main areas of concern that typically arise in remote classrooms.
Communication Issues
It is important to know that despite moving your course into a remote learning environment, you must make yourself available to your students. One of the biggest challenges in remote learning is struggling to find a convenient time to connect students and professors. Make your schedule known and accessible to your students. Have ample office hours for your students to utilize in case they need to. If you only answer your emails during a certain time, outline your hours of availability in your course syllabus. By moving into an online environment, the student no longer has the option to stay after class for quick questions. Make sure they know what options they have available in order to contact you.
Technology Issues
It is understood that if a student wants to take an online course, they must have a decent working laptop or device in order to be able to attend class, take notes, and use collaborative tools. As a professor, it is not your responsibility to provide equipment to your students, however, it is important to let them know if the university offers any free equipment or assistive technology. For example, many institutions will rent out laptops, monitors, hot spots, and other helpful technology. If your student mentions they are having connectivity issues, be sure to refer them to the right resources!
Learning Styles
Every student has a unique learning style. Some students learn best through participating, while other students just like to quietly listen along. Be courteous to your students, and form a teaching pattern that is sensitive to many learning styles. Ask for feedback and be receptive! Slow down when teaching difficult concepts and open the room to questions frequently.
Tools to Successfully Manage a Remote Classroom
Similar to the influx of remote positions in the workforce, many courses are now being offered exclusively online. Due to this, the demand for remote collaboration tools has increased tenfold. The market is now thoroughly saturated with various different tools for collaboration, video conferencing, communication, file sharing, screen recording, and so much more.
Collaboration Tools
Collaboration tools are vital to keeping your students engaged and willing to participate. Interactive apps in which students can complete assignments in real-time can help pave the way for more sustainable learning. Try virtual whiteboard apps with embedded quizzes, polls, assignments, and note-taking tools. There are also virtual bulletin boards on which your students can share “post-it notes” with questions, comments, and responses.
Presentation Tools
Did you know that visually appealing presentations are proven to result in a higher engagement rate among students? There is a multitude of presentation software out there that allows you to customize slides with interactive elements and visually pleasing graphics. Remember to summarize long bodies of text, use bullet points frequently, include questions, and add visual aids. Pause for questions when necessary.
Communication Tools
One of the most important things you’ll need to successfully manage a remote classroom is an effective avenue of communication. While direct messaging apps might not be necessary, make sure you have a place for your students to ask questions. All students should have access to Zoom or your video conferencing platform of choice. Help students troubleshoot the app before the class meeting time.
File-Sharing Tools
Have one designated place where students can upload files. A cloud storage app that holds all your students’ documents and assignments will be necessary to keep both your students and yourself organized. Google Drive is a great option for this, making it easy to upload and download necessary files. Make sure to be clear about where your students can find their homework assignments and their due dates.
Screen Recording Tools
If you have to walk your students through a formula, calculation, and any other concept that requires visualization, finding a proper screen recording app is a must. Recording your screen as your write out the problem on a virtual whiteboard will help your students understand what steps they need to take to arrive at the same answer.
Conclusion – Tools for Successfully Managing a Remote College Classroom
There are multiple tools and tricks out there to successfully manage your remote classroom. With some of the many innovative tools that have hit the market, getting your students excited and engaged has become easier than ever. Keeping organized, having clear communication, and the proper tool will lead both you and your students toward a successful semester. Remember to be accessible both during and after class, address your students’ concerns, and find space for leniency, students are human after all.