How to Incorporate Teaching Methods in an Online Class

Online classrooms require many of the same teaching skills as traditional classrooms.

Teachers use many of the same skills to teach online as in a brick-and-mortar classroom. Technology offers students a comparable learning environment that to a face-to-face classroom. Webcams and audio communication allow students to see and hear instructors online. Online whiteboards for writing and drawing are similar to traditional classroom whiteboards. With a little preparation, teachers can transition from a traditional classroom to an online learning environment.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Call on students to contribute to discussions. Ask probing, open-ended questions in chats or video discussions. Serve as a mediator during disagreements. Create a safe environment for students to share their views. Similar to a brick-and-mortar classroom, students should read assignments and discuss them with the group. Request various interpretations. Direct students to speak to one another through email or write responses in chats.

2. Write notes to the class using an online whiteboard. Solve math problems. Explain solutions as you write. Direct students to read stories presented on PowerPoint presentations aloud. Annotate the presentations, underlining mispronounced words. After students finish reading, correct their pronunciation. Post student writing assignments on the whiteboard. Demonstrate edits. Request class input.

3. Use a variety of learning aids. Graphics and photo presentations are appropriate for visual learners. Video demonstrations requiring students to make or build objects in front of a camcorder can help tactile learners. Step-by-step verbal instructions are best for auditory learners.

4. Present a syllabus. Include scheduled tests and quizzes, discussion topics, homework assignments and online meeting dates. Add rules for conduct in the online classroom and technical support contact information. Your contact information and availability are an important part of the syllabus.

5. Organize the classroom. Keep navigation links, the syllabus, and supplementary learning material easily accessible. Be prepared to direct students to materials throughout the class.

6. Require participation. Track participation during live sessions and discussions held outside of class time. Post discussion questions related to class reading in a forum. Track student responses. Students must meet a mandatory number of responses before the end of the term. They can respond to you or other students. This supports an interactive exchange of ideas among peers.

References

• Teaching Effectiveness Program: What are Some Good Ways to Facilitate a Discussion?
• Greg Kearsley and Robert Blomeyer: Preparing K-12 Teachers to Teach Online
• Honolulu Community College: 17 Elements of Good Online Courses