Learning is often perceived as the process of acquiring new knowledge and skills. This process can occur differently in online learning compared to the regular face-to-face classes. One may picture a typical class where students sit in neat rows, turned their faces to the teacher, and carefully listening to every word that the teacher utters.
However, this may not be the case in online learning. The process of learning in online classes often happens while the student is sitting alone in front of a computer screen. With the COVID-19 pandemic, many students are being forced to learn remotely due to the restricted physical interactions. Therefore, as teachers, how can we provide students with enhanced learner engagement? How can we allow students to have an optimal learning experience in online learning environments? In my online class, not limited to, but I would do the following things to help my students to better engage with learning.
Provide clear instructions
In a traditional class, when a student needs a clarification, they can ask the teacher and get the necessary support almost immediately. However, in online learning, sometimes it can take time for the teacher to attend individual student queries. Therefore, to minimise learner frustrations and to maintain motivation, it is vital to make learning instructions very clear. Unless technical language is required, always use simple language. In addition, make the course page easy to navigate. Organise the course materials and use a consistent method to label them. Also, use checklists or a completion progress bar, so the students can see their progress. These things can increase students’ overall willingness of attempting the course activities and can result in better learner engagement.
Use bite-sized content
In online learning, providing bite-sized content is very important. As mentioned previously, online learning typically occurs while the student is sitting alone. Therefore, watching a long pre-recorded lecture, and/or reading a whole textbook chapter may not be of interest for many students. I understand that reading a textbook chapter may not be optional. However, it can be very, very boring!! Therefore, divide the course content into small chunks and give them as separate tasks. This can help students to digest course content properly and to retain knowledge. This can also help them to maintain motivation of progressing the subject which can enhance the overall learner engagement.
Make learning social and fun
In a previous post, I talked about the importance of social presence in online learning. Learning is typically a serious business. However, without making it interesting for students, I do not believe that a teacher can always achieve the learning objectives, specifically in online environments. Therefore, make learning enjoyable for your students. Know the interests of your students and use various types of activities and online tools that can help you to make learning more fun and interesting for them. There are many free, and readily available online tools that you can use to enhance learner interactions and make learning fun. Once students find your subject interesting, their learning engagement and efforts will likely be increased.
Online teachers may need to make additional efforts in relation to teaching preparations and subject delivery. However, with the correct methods and approaches, we can help our online students to achieve similar learning outcomes as their f2f peers.