Teaching in modern times is not a one-way delivery of knowledge. The advocates for e-learning understand this concept. So why am I discussing this? Well, many a times, online e-learning classes tend to become highly boring. The instructor does most of the talking and students have little opportunity to interact. This is basically old school teaching system packaged in a new format. However, this will not really work in favor of promoting e-learning courses amongst the new generation of students.
Engagement and interaction are two most important keys that will help the class organizer host a successful online class in the future. It is imperative that you give your students the space to actively participate in the different sessions that you organize from time to time and make it highly interesting and engaging. Remember, e-learning is totally different from the face-to-face learning that takes place in traditional ‘brick and mortar’ classrooms. Most of us are used to that sort of learning since we started going to school. Hence, the new style does take some time to catch up with our learning styles. With a positive attitude, I am sure you can prevent lower drop-out rates and ensure better grades.
Let’s look at the best of e-learning techniques and tips that will keep your students hooked in throughout the duration of your class .
Choose Courses Carefully
Your courses should appeal to the masses at large. You cannot just randomly select a topic that may be irrelevant and out of context. Do a thorough research on what the majority of students want to study or earn a degree in and then introduce lessons based on your research findings.
Make It Highly Interactive
As mentioned earlier, you should communicate with your students constantly to understand their needs and the areas where they require your help. A live online chat is always welcome plus you can allow your students to email with specific queries.
Let the Students Explore
Allow the students to indulge in extensive individual research and look for solutions to their problems. You may act as a mediator and let them do the action to crack the issue. It is the student who knows what is relevant and what is not. Self-exploration also leads to the growth of a student’s confidence and motivates them to learn in depth. I believe finding information is much easier than before since we have a whole lot of social media and wikis available for ready access with the introduction of the internet.
Establish Realistic Timelines
If you leave an assignment up to the students to finish in whatever time they can, I strongly believe the assignment will take months to ultimately get delivered to you. Thus, you should set a timeline (of course a realistic one!) to get it done. By realistic I mean not asking the students to complete a 20-page project in half an hour. Working with the students to set clear objectives will help you move on with the project forward. It also keep things on track.
