There are many things to consider during this time of uncertainty with classroom environments. Execution of materials, resources, activities, and tools will vary depending on your unique situation, but there are some things to consider.
Each district, and likely even school, has a different set of expectations about how teachers engage with students and how students engage with content. Being realistic with what can be accomplished within the expectation that is set is key to success.
What are your district or school expectations for teachers?
What are your district or school expectations for students in the content area?
Logistics are the backbone of the full operation and will be a determining factor in the choices you make with what and how students are engaged in content.
Will a virtual component be accompanied with face-to-face interaction either in person or online?
What kind of reasonable technology access do students have at home?
What are the resource options for providing digital and non-digital engagement?
Will you have any face time with students via video conferencing such as Zoom?
How will you be communicating expectations and directions to students?
Trying to adjust all of your in-person classroom activities into a virtual format can be overwhelming. Now more than ever before, we need to ask ourselves focused questions about what we are trying to accomplish through instruction and activities, what our realistic desired outcomes are for students, and whether or not the objective aligns with what students are being asked to do. Don’t try to reimagine each detail of your in-classroom experience in the virtual world, reimagine the full student experience for students.
What is the true purpose of what you are trying to accomplish?
How does what you are asking students to do align with your focus and purpose of instruction?
Is what you are asking students to do aligned with communicative goals?
What is the most effective use of students’ time in the virtual classroom?
Resources and tools can be used to meet a variety of needs. Looking at current resources from a new perspective is important in building the virtual experience that works best for you and your students. Once you establish what your purpose is with students, consider the different pathways for which you can use digital resources.
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Although each situation is unique, there are some best practices to consider when preparing to deliver elements of instruction in a virtual environment.
Presentation of Content
What content you present, how you present it, and in what order may take some time to get right. Consider how students will be working in the online environment in conjunction with student logistics to determine what you ask students to do and how that is communicated and presented to students. You may choose to assign individual activities or group activities together in a bundle with one due date. Be consistent in your presentation and grouping of content and activities so that students know how to access it and what to do when they get there.
Flexibility in Due Dates
Do you want restrictive or flexible due dates online? Although due dates may be defined as a class, you may consider being flexible as students get acclimated to the new environment.
Establishing Routine and Structure
Structure is an important element in students meeting and exceeding expectations. Having patterns and routines in how content is organized and delivered as well as what students are being asked to do will help minimize confusion. Finding the best routines and structures for you and your students may take some time. In trying to establish what that end structure may look like, it is important to stick with a routine so that it doesn’t feel like things are always changing for students. Structure and clear expectations have a direct impact on student outcomes.
Give Yourself a Break
This is a learning experience for everyone. Give yourself a break in achieving your ideal virtual classroom. Take it one step at a time. Once you feel comfortable implementing particular elements of a virtual world into your classroom, explore the next steps with an open mind. We are all learning together and accepting what you can do while committing to doing what works best for you and your students will make you successful.
