What is the success mantra for being an effective online teacher?

eaching in a physical classroom is completely different from using the online medium. Not being able to see the students can make you feel disconnected and helpless. You can’t just rely on your teaching methods to work online- you need to be able to adapt them to an asynchronous, text-based learning environment.

Here are some tips that will help you design your own style.

1. Have a clear and concise teaching style

When teaching online, it is important to have a clear and concise teaching style. This will help your students understand the material more easily and follow along with your lectures more effectively. Additionally, having a clear teaching style will also help you to keep your own thoughts and ideas organized when preparing for class.

When your plan is clear you know what you will be talking to students and you make the best of your time.

2. Be organized and prepared

In order to be an effective online teacher, it is essential to be well-organized and prepared for each class. This means having all of the necessary materials ready and easily accessible, as well as knowing exactly what you will be covering in each session. By being prepared, you will be able to keep your students engaged and on track.

Trust me, being prepared is the key. This way you don’t find yourself lost in front of the students and you have a target and at the end of the session you can analyse what works and what not.

3. Be flexible and accommodating

Due to the nature of online learning, it is important to be flexible and accommodating when teaching. This means being willing to adjust your lectures or class activities based on the needs and interests of your students. It may also mean accommodating different learning styles and working with students who are located all over the world.

You know that the same formula won’t work in every session and as teachers we need to be open and we need to accept any change that comes our way.

4. Encourage student participation

One of the best ways to engage students in online learning is to encourage their participation. This can be done by asking them questions, having them work on projects together, or giving them opportunities to share their thoughts and ideas. By involving students in the learning process, you will help them to stay interested and motivated.

There are ways to invite students to small groups so that they can share their viewpoints in breakout rooms and teachers can visit these rooms separately to monitor the session.

5. Use technology effectively

Technology can be a valuable tool when teaching online, but it is important to use it effectively. This means using tools that are appropriate for the age and level of your students, as well as using them in a way that is helpful and not distracting. By using technology in the right way, you can help your students to learn and engage more effectively.

There are so many tools these days like flipgrid, quizzes, kahoot, nearpod, and so many more. You can use these to make your sessions more interactive and the best part is that most of these are free.

4. Be patient and understanding

When teaching online, it is important to be patient and understanding with your students. This means taking the time to answer their questions and helping them through any difficult material. It can also mean being tolerant of any misunderstandings or communication errors that may occur.

This is so far is the strongest tool to have for a teacher whether online or offline, every student might have a different background and home situation. Patiently understand their needs and listen to them before being judgemental.

5. Give feedback

Giving feedback is an important part of online teaching. This means providing students with regular comments and suggestions on their work, as well as giving them constructive criticism when needed. By giving students feedback, you can help them to improve their skills and progress in their learning.

When you call out a student’s name they feel heard and they feel proud, always take the effort to give feedback no matter they talk less or more in the classroom.

These are some essential qualities that every online teacher should possess. By keeping these things in mind, you can ensure that your students have a positive and successful learning experience.

These are just a few tips to becoming an excellent online teacher. Do share your experience- what has been working for you? what tips you would like to share.

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