When I finally decided to pursue my career as a college professor, I knew I wanted to teach online. Considering how many programs at reputable institutions offer online degrees, my aspiration seemed more than reasonable. Obviously though, the practice wasn’t as widely practiced when I first entered the field as compared to how ubiquitous it has become in the face of a pandemic. Even seasoned instructors have found themselves struggling to adjust to the new modality. Fortunately, we are all much more technologically savvy than in previous years, and transitioning to the online setting doesn’t have to be a nightmare.
Part of making the online classroom function well for students used to face to face instruction is creating a more inviting course shell. I learned and incorporated updating a folder module system into a more intuitive style of learning modules and lesson plans. Canvas, Blackboard, Moodle, etc. all have methods of presenting instructional materials, assignments, and interactive discussion boards. Not only are these module options more accessible, but they also offer a more stream-lined aesthetic for the course shell itself. If you are totally unaware of your school’s learning management system (LMS), seek out training and webinars. Chances are high that your school planned for just such an occasion and can assist you in designing your course for your school’s chosen LMS.
Obviously, engagement becomes difficult when you are physically separated from your students — and likewise for them! How do we know the students are learning and understanding? How do the students find the connections they would typically make in a classroom with an instructor in front of them and peers around them? The online environment can appear lonely and cold at first, but rest assured that technology includes several options to offer connection among the class. Hold synchronous lectures whenever possible; if you are not running on a synchronous schedule, ask students to complete a survey indicating what times work best for them. Also, create a virtual “office” with office hours. You can utilization the LMS’ built in meeting software, such as Collaborate or Kaltura; however, you can also use Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, or any other group chatting platform to create a space in which students can see you via webcam and chat in real-time.
Of course, virtual office hours only cover one aspect of the social experience for your students. Setting up a virtual “cafe” via discussion boards, journals, blogs, and the like can foster community among your students. Encourage them to form study groups and complete peer reviews of writing assignments. While group projects tend to receive negative feedback from everyone involved, these study groups and peer reviews can meet the same social needs of students.
Above all else, be kind and encouraging! This year has been absolutely chaotic for everyone on some level or another, and we all collectively deserve to ease into this new normal. Remind your students that even you are human — you can remain professional while still showing your own personality in the classroom and in email correspondence. Use your student’s name to show care and concern. Encourage them to continue doing their best and taking time to perform acts of self-care. And of course, take time to practice your own self-care! Together, we can all create a new “classroom” modal and find new ways of teaching, learning, and connecting.
