Where to begin
Making use of the 2 simple models presented, you can slowly start diversifying your teaching methods. Even if there is a lot of theoretical input you need to insert in a short amount of time, animating the classroom through a small trick might bring a great result in terms of students’ participation.
Here are some examples of practical activities you can use with students in the online classroom:
Other general tips:
✅ Prepare a visually attractive material to support you while presenting the theory, and choose the most relevant content to present
✅ Insert interactive and collaborative methods (even in the theoretical presentation)
✅ Beware of boredom moments, but at the same time do not be afraid of silence - if you want students to comment and ask questions, you need to create a space for this: remind them from time to time and be patient while waiting for their reactions
✅ Alternate methods - use small group exercises in breakout rooms and alternate them with individual exercises and with theory bits
✅ Insert energizers and movement breaks from time to time, including stretching and breathing exercises
✅ Allow them to contribute (for example, for a musical playlist to be used while working individually, if the case)
✅ Ask them “what would you do differently if you were me?
This is just an introduction, you will receive more in depth info related to creating a comfortable learning environment, increasing engagement, and using energising exercises and movement breaks in the next sections.