This page tells you how some applications can help you teach your classes remotely so you can stay connected to your students.
Microsoft has introduced some free online applications you can use to help your students feel connected to their learning, to you and to each other anywhere, any time to stay motivated to learn.
Disconnection and disengagement are an issue for online learning but if your students feel connected to you and to each other in a social way remotely, they will feel closer even if they are not in the same physical room.
Elements to consider when digitising your teaching
- Give students relevant things to do outside of scheduled class times, and the space to share their knowledge when you come back together, where you make sure they can meet the goals for the lesson.
- Use tools to help students stay motivated and collect feedback on how they are going.
- Create visually interesting and interactive teaching tools to support your delivery more effectively.
- Choose the relevant app then make sure your students know how to access it and use it effectively prior to the session you want to use the app in.
- Creatively blend a variety of learning approaches to cater for different learning styles (visual, auditory, kinaesthetic)
Hints and Tips
- Be patient – especially if you are trying a new type of app. There could be a learning curve for both you and your students -but the outcome will be rewarding.
- Be flexible – some students may have internet/bandwidth or other issues that may require you to provide an alternative method.
- Talk to your students – students may not always feel comfortable communicating their needs -check in with students and make sure that they are okay with the parameters of how you want them to use the app and adjust accordingly.
- Weekly plan – Give students a weekly plan for their classes at least one week in advance, so students benefit from seeing the context for each task or activity.
- Have a back-up plan – Life happens. Be sure to have a backup plan for any unforeseen circumstances like no internet or family emergency so students can stay connected while dealing with other circumstances.