Source:What is Active Learning? And Why it Matters – ViewSonic Library
The world has changed drastically since the pandemic. Both students and teachers have to adapt to new norms where virtual classes have become part of their daily routine. As with traditional face-to-face classes, virtual classes also require active participation and engagement by students. However, with numerous distractions at home and a limited ability to interact with others, it can be challenging to keep students engaged throughout a virtual class session. Active learning techniques are crucial to make virtual classes more interactive, engaging and participatory for students. In this blog post, we will delve into some practical tips and activities that educators and parents can use to promote active student participation during online classes.
Virtual Game-Based Learning
Virtual game-based learning is a fun and engaging way to promote active participation in virtual classes. Virtual games can be used as a teaching tool where students can learn through various game mechanics. The games can be educational, interesting and interactive, improving student engagement. Virtual game-based learning also provides an excellent opportunity to improve teamwork and collaboration skills among students.
Active Discussions
Discussions and debates are a powerful learning tool that encourages active participation in virtual classes. Teachers can encourage students to participate in active discussions by breaking down vital concepts and allowing students to give their opinions and perspectives. Active discussions are also an excellent way to gauge student understanding of the topic. Teachers can create virtual breakout rooms where students can collaborate and discuss the topic before sharing their thoughts with the rest of the class.
Virtual Field Trips
Virtual field trips are another interactive learning technique that can help create a more dynamic virtual classroom experience. Teachers can take students on virtual field trips to different parts of the world, museums or art galleries. Students can explore the virtual environment and engage with the subject matter in exciting and interactive ways. Virtual field trips are an excellent way to make learning fun and engage students in their virtual classrooms.
Interactive Q&A Sessions
Interactive Q&A sessions are an excellent way to prompt participation and engagement in virtual classes. Teachers can allow students to ask questions during the class, giving them an opportunity to clear any doubts and participate actively. Teachers can also pose thought-provoking questions and create quizzes that can be administered through the virtual classroom software to create more interactivity.
Peer-to-Peer Learning
Peer-to-peer learning is another powerful technique that encourages active student participation in virtual classes. Teachers can create small groups of students and allow them to work together on assignments. The groups can help one another understand key concepts and share insights. Peer-to-peer learning also encourages collaboration and interactivity and allows students to understand the topic better.
Incorporating active learning techniques can help create a dynamic and interactive learning experience during virtual classes. Teachers and parents can use a variety of techniques such as virtual game-based learning, active discussions, virtual field trips, interactive Q&A sessions and peer-to-peer learning to promote participation in virtual classrooms. By engaging students with these interactive activities, they can remain engaged and focused, leading to better understanding and retention of the topic at hand.
