5 TIPS FOR KEEPING STUDENTS FOCUSED AND ENGAGED WHEN LEARNING REMOTELY
BY : AL KINGSLEY
work collaboratively , even if they are physically distanced .
Communication has to be a twoway street , and so it ’ s also important that students can communicate directly with the teacher and resolve queries quickly through features like help requests . Additionally , student surveys and feedback forms , provide the opportunity for teachers to determine which areas students may be struggling with and what virtual learning techniques they are gaining the most from .
Gamified assessment
Students ’ focus and attention were already an issue in most schools before COVID-19 , but with online classes , now becoming the norm for the majority in the UAE , this is only being exacerbated . Al Kingsley looks at five ways that schools can help teachers maintain student focus and engagement while delivering remote learning .
Continuity
To support successful classrooms in your school , don ’ t underestimate the importance of continuity for both students and teachers . Choosing a platform that allows them to switch seamlessly between in-school and remote learning , does not only help to minimize disruption for students ( and reduce the negative impact on learning outcomes ), but also supports teachers ' wellbeing , by removing the extra stress involved in having to learn how to use and switch between multiple applications .
Monitor and control metering , the ability to lock certain apps completely ( or certain web pages ), and to be able to monitor students ’ screens . By selecting EdTech platforms that allow accessible monitoring , teachers will find it much easier to ensure their students remain on task throughout lessons . But don ’ t forget , the platform must also have a range of tools allowing teachers to deliver engaging content , from chat and discussion , to surveys and more .
Interaction
Interaction is at the heart of learning , so it should be a priority when it comes to remote teaching . Without the tools for effective interaction , lessons delivered via technology risk becoming a passive experience for students . Doing something as simple as acknowledging someone ' s presence in a live chat and engaging them , there , can be a great start – while group chats ensure that students can
In reality , the issue with engagement and online classes is not really about the format as such , but how it is used . Some schools have incorporated aspects of gaming into their teaching – and online courses are the perfect medium for this approach . For example , quizzes can be given , and points can be awarded after passing a test on a particular module . Badges can be given for certain accomplishments and displayed on a leader board . All of this could help trigger students ’ competitive instincts and keep them all the more engaged .
Accessibility
At the end of the day , there can ’ t be any engagement if schoolwork is not available to your students . This is why accessibility should be a priority . Making sure that content is easily reachable during and after classes , and that students have a reference area they can consult , in case they have issues , will give them the best possible chance to engage with their learning .
Equip teachers with tools that allow them to control activity online and eliminate distractions . Key features to look out for include ; internet
Al Kingsley is group Managing Director of NetSupport . Additional roles include being chair of a multi academy trust in the UK and chair of a city ’ s Governor Leadership Group
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Term 2 Jan - Mar 2021 Class Time