Remote learning is on the rise as more schools and learners opt for online classes. However, internet learning is not naturally captivating for either students or teachers. It lacks that classroom feeling and interaction.
So how do you ensure remote learners have an immersive learning experience? As an educator, you can use communication tools that make virtual learning comparable to a classroom. This will help create a more interactive experience that’s enjoyable for learners and educators as well.
Here are five communication essentials that will enhance your remote learning experience.
1. Don’t Leave Room for Isolation
Most learners complain about being stuck with reading articles and watching videos in online classes. This leaves them bored and isolated. As an educator, look for opportunities to connect with your learners, especially the reluctant. Don’t just share learning information. Use creative ways to synchronize activities likely to increase engagement.
Introducing pedagogical strategies that work in an actual classroom will go a long way in creating an exciting virtual class. These strategies are still impactful regardless of the learning method.
2. Incorporated Different Communication Modes
Communication with remote learners should be through text, video, or audio. It is also good to note, each has its limitations despite having strength.
Text
Writing text messages is probably the most efficient communication method for online learners. However, it lacks a voice tone or body language. This means you will put extra effort so that your message doesn’t become too personal.
Video
Unlike the text method, this mode makes learners feel like they are closer. They see each other’s faces and hear voices, which makes them more lively. But for this to be successful, ensure your internet speed is reliable for downloading and streaming. Too, you need to confirm if it’s accessible to all remote learners.
Audio
Recording and sharing with virtual learners is another simple way of passing information. You need to ensure it’s clear and concise. But if you are looking to address the entire class, texting will be a better method instead.
3. Adapting Group Messaging
Group messaging creates a collaborative environment. It makes learners feel at ease and can share with their classmates. Beyond that, it’s an effective way of engaging learners if you are looking to get the most out of them.
So with group messaging, learners can converse like in regular classrooms. Here, they can socialize, ask questions, brainstorm, among other interactive activities.
4. Adapt Personal Communication
Personal communication makes learners feel cared for and more attached to you. So how do you keep communication personal?
Here is how:
Using names: Shows them a sense of familiarity and connection.
Self-disclosure: Talking more about yourself and sharing with them how you spend your free time.
Off-topic talks: engaging in online chats while waiting for others to set up enhance a feeling of togetherness
5. Use Apps with Both Features: Video and Messaging
Video and messaging are both essential features in online learning. But it gets better if both capabilities are in one application. Apart from being able to download and install, it is easier to maintain the app. Likewise, it’s easy to transition from lessons to assignments.
The application saves time and creates an enjoyable experience for learners and educators alike.
Conclusion
A great remote learning experience depends on the technology in use. Keeping it simple will make learners appreciative and collaborative. Yet, learners and educators alike should understand this is an experimental journey. Both are learning, and it’s only teamwork and humility that will make them achieve success. Otherwise, ensure the technology in use allows every remote learner to engage seamlessly.
