What Makes an Online Classroom Successful?

The integration of technology has made online learning convenient and accessible for both teachers and students. The benefits of online teaching and learning are plenty including adaptive and personalised methodologies. However, there are certain challenges that educators face while trying to teach effectively online. To create a learning environment in an online classroom, the inclusion of adaptive teaching techniques and styles is necessary. 

Incorporating classroom management techniques that focus on increasing students’ productivity and engagement is the best way to build an effective online classroom. It includes presentations, discussions, online games and more that keep students attentive and participative in the class. 

Additionally, for building a good learning environment, educators must focus on helping students feel supported and connected in an online classroom. It can be done by teachers taking into account the requirements of students and delivering lessons accordingly. Here is a look at how teachers can create a learning environment in an online classroom -

A healthy atmosphere fosters better learning. This makes it crucial for teachers to create a positive and systematic learning atmosphere for students. This includes starting the online sessions with greetings, having morning prayers and break time for students to reflect on their learning and share their feedback. Furthermore, educators must create a safe space where students are encouraged to share their thoughts and queries. When they feel comfortable and supported, they will be more participative and won't let their fear of making mistakes hold them back.

An intellectual environment in a classroom aids cognitive development in learners. The purpose is to foster holistic learning and development in students. Educators must plan fun online activities for students in the classroom such as building a science experiment online, storytelling and online quizzes and games that are intellectually stimulating. Furthermore, it is important for teachers to provide students with online class assignments and projects to check their understanding level. This will help teachers in designing classroom activities and lectures that assist students to reach their full potential.

Social and emotional environments are interconnected. Social environment refers to the classroom atmosphere that impacts a student's interaction with peers and teachers. A well crafted social atmosphere fosters positive communication among students. Furthermore, it provides support and guidance to them for achieving their social accomplishments. The best way to develop social skills in an online classroom is by implementing fun activities for students by pairing them up in groups. Working on case studies and presentations in groups offer students the chance to enhance their social, cognitive and problem-solving skills.

To make an online classroom successful, it is important for teachers to set their teaching methodologies according to the needs of the students in the classroom. It is advisable to take up teacher training courses that are aimed at equipping educators with the necessary effective teaching strategies. We at Suraasa, offer programs like How to Manage an Online Classroom, which can significantly help educators deliver better lessons online.