Research has evidenced that teachers who use a firm but friendly approach with their students are more likely to have a successful classroom experience. If you are wondering how to navigate this kind of learning atmosphere for the virtual world, look at these creative virtual classroom hacks!
Hack #1: Develop curriculum around shorter content.
Aim to keep your teaching material within 10-15 minutes, the rest of time would require students to engage actively in interactive discussions, puzzles, fill in the blanks, solving sums etc. By creating short and captivating lessons you are able to capture their attention (which is reduced due to increased technology usage.)
Hack #2: Think outside the ‘digital’ box
Engaging with student’s unique learning styles will help improve the chances of grasping lessons. Asking children to find an object at home related to the topic of discussion will engage their senses and also create a sense of excitement for the lessons. While teaching lessons about a topic, make use of crafts and art work to keep their interest, this will be a good change from digital images.
Hack #3: Dedicate time for relaxation and casual conversations
Allow some room for casual chit-chat to help student gain a sense of being with one another in the classroom. This could involve sharing a joke, or talking about what you had for breakfast etc. Set a timer of when these conversations can take place, so it does not extend beyond necessary. This allows teacher to bond with students and creates a comfortable learning environment. Take 5 minutes to engage in Mindfulness exercises with your students to help them de-stress and improve concentration.
Hack #4: Optimize technology as a tool of learning
If you want to teach students about a particular concept, look up website which offer games and brain training puzzles which require application of such concepts. This will spark the curiosity and motivation of students to learn new concepts. Ensure every student gets a chance to participate and offer verbal encouragement to reinforce them.
Hack #5: Group projects in break out rooms
Help students develop skills of leadership, taking initiative, organization and team work by dividing them into random groups where you assign them a specific task (for example, solving a puzzle sum) to be completed within a stipulated time frame. Assign one member of the group to be leader for the week, so they learn how to manage a team and also delegate tasks. This will challenge your students and boost their sense of confidence in themselves.
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