FAQ: Remote Learning Tips
Do you need assistance in developing needed skills to teach virtually TODAY? Almy Education and leading math practitioner Maria Andersen recognize we may be in a virtual education environment for some time. The following FAQ is to assist you in setting up a virtual space with technology in which to teach as well as how to deploy several immediate strategies.
Maria has a free webinar when she goes into remote teaching tips in detail. Check it out here.
Q: What tools do I need immediately to set up a virtual teaching messaging?
A: The tools to set up are minimal. A computer with a camera with internet in a quiet space, and a document camera with a pan-view of your immediate workspace is beneficial but not critical. There are ways to use a smartphone as a document camera.
Q: How do I set proper expectations for participation with my students?
A: This is best done by communicating expectations in writing at the beginning of the class. Set expectations for a daily login as well as expectations on teacher communication and due dates for completion of assignments. The more the student participates, the more they learn. Teacher engagement daily is encouraged and some districts, expected. Expectations on turnaround for any communication is critical. Typically, 24 hours for any response for the teacher or student is expected.
Q: What if my students cheat?
A: They likely will try and that’s a reasonable expectation. Our job is to adjust our questions so that they are not searchable by Google. Expect that students will try to “overcollaborate” but make it a challenge. At this time, don’t let the concern of cheating consume you. It’s not completely avoidable online, just like it isn’t avoidable in the classroom.
Q: How do I illustrate math equations in a virtual environment?
A: A document camera that sits above your immediate space in front of you allows you to illustrate math equations like you would on a whiteboard. SHOW them as much as you can as many are visual learners. Math is best learned by engaging students. Most students will prefer working with you instead of reading slides with math work already written.
Q: What strategy can I employ to ensure students are staying engaged in my session?
A: Check in with them in a live session. Solve problems synchronously. You could use a video you make or one that is online for students to watch to be exposed to theory. A live session with them can allow you to problem solve with them. This flipped approach allows them to make sense of the content with you. Consider the 3-2-1-go technique with a live chat to engage them (this technique is demonstrated in Maria’s free webinar). Kahoots and Desmos are also great ways to engage students. For a free course on using Kahoot and Desmos in the classroom, click here.
Q: What is a strategy to ensure students are doing their homework?
“Above all, be kind to yourself and give yourself a break.”
A: Make deadlines clear and set them for certain days of the week. For example, if students know every day has login and participation requirements but only Mondays and Thursdays are for turning in work, they can get in a good habit of turning in work and logging in to engage. Students are craving consistency and routine in this time of constant change. Really, we all are.
Above all, be kind to yourself and give yourself a break. Please do the same for students. This is an incredibly stressful situation. We all need to give each other grace. Everyone is doing the best they can.
As you work on teaching remotely, it can be easy to feel isolated. We all need community and this situation is no different. Consider joining our Facebook group on elearning to have a place to share and learn. We hope to see you there.
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