Online teaching is the process wherein all the teaching and learning are done via the internet. It has made learning accessible for every one from anywhere around the globe. Teachers can teach using an online teaching app in the comfort of their homes.
Online learning has its own set of advantages, but there are challenges that both the teachers and the students have to deal with. The challenges can be different; however, they can work on them through proper communication and collaboration.
This article points out the common mistakes that online teachers make and how to avoid them.
1. No Engagement
Rushing to complete the syllabus is a nig mistake that teachers make. If you conduct online classes but only deliver lectures while the students have to sit quietly and listen to you speaking, you will not be able to grasp their interest. Students who learn through online classes are already in isolation; the best that a teacher can do to not make them feel unhappy about online learning is to hold interactive sessions; otherwise, it would be them sitting and staring at the screen with their minds roaming all over the place but the lecture.
Make sure to interact with your students. Ask them questions, suggestions and opinions as you teach. Hold quizzes, discussion sessions and debates. Also, give them feedback.
2. Not Turning On The Camera
Students who have had the habit of staring at their teacher when they taught in class in traditional classes will not find online classrooms attractive if they turn off their cameras during lectures. Also, asking the students to mute themselves and turn off their cameras might seem comforting for a short period but, in the long run, will erode their interest in learning or attending the class. They might just log in and not pay attention at all.
Keep your camera on, and ask the students to do the same. Have conversations with them while you teach.
3. Making Assumptions
Teachers must understand that not every student will always have good internet connectivity. Also, not all of them will be well-acquainted with the digital software and tools used for their learning. Making assumptions and not thinking from a student's perspective is a big mistake an online teacher can make.
Give a quick tutorial about the tools and software used for them. Tell them to inform you when they face any technical issues. Make changes in your curriculum to best suit the online teaching platform.
4. Not Giving Feedback
Feedback is necessary. They help people know what they are good at and areas they need to improve. It is the same with students as well.
Not giving feedback to students will not motivate them to work harder. The chances of the students becoming disinterested in the subject increase.
Give appropriate feedback to students whenever necessary. Also, take their feedback on which areas you can improve on.
5. Not Incorporating Different Approaches
If you teach only through live classes and, for some reason, the student cannot attend the lecture, it will be his loss. Also, what if a student wishes to go through the lecture once again?
For all these reasons, you must ensure that you incorporate different approaches in your teaching style. Record your classes and provide notes to the students. Use different assessment methods and platforms to test their learning.
As a teacher, you are bound to face challenges. A good teacher knows how to tackle them.