When students need help coping with online classes. Tips on how to manage participants of an online class who are not able to stay tuned..

Tips on how to manage participants of an online class who are not able to stay tuned..

People have different learning styles. The four learning styles have been debated for long. Whether you believe in them or not, it is undeniable that people absorb information differently depending on the medium. One of the startling effects of this phenomenon came to light when the learning platforms flipped overnight from in-person to remote. Over the last twelve to eighteen months, many countries are slowly shifting back to in-person or ‘offline’ classes. During this state of flux, the results from many standard evaluations changed. The so called ’toppers’ changed. Participation changed. Outcomes of projects and exercises changed. New high performers emerged.

This article focuses on how to help those who are average or above average learners in general but suffer from lack of focus and difficulty absorbing knowledge.

Instrukti is a platform that helps connect learners with skilled educators and trainers. In our journey, we do not want to let any student feel left behind. Whether you are a teacher, mentor or a student, learner, these tips might help you maintain the deep learner state even when attending online classes.

Tips to help students challenged by the online medium:

IDENTIFY.

Identify students struggling with the online format. It is far too easy to sit quiet and let the presenter rumble on. Identifying those few students who pivoted to being opaque to what is being taught is not easy. It takes a little effort from the teacher. The simplest way is to ask quick questions directly to the audience. A student consistently missing the point, giving wrong answers is likely feeling disconnected from the proceedings of the online class. Time to act!

PROVIDE SAFETY.

“Why don’t you get something so simple? Focus.” These are typical words coming from any teacher frustrated with a student. Do they help accomplish the goal of building focus and learning? Unlikely. Instead connect failure-to-answer with sympathy, compassion and direction. The world has not come burning down. Allow students who could not relate with the subject to feel safe asking a few questions. “Where did you stop understanding? What aspect do you find complex? Tell me an example from your life and I will explain.” Imagine reaffirmations like these replacing the accusation that one is simply not focusing on purpose. Build a safety net and allow learners to feel that you are there to help, not hurt.

EXPECT MORE.

While it is important to not erode confidence, teachers also need help students discover their true strength. Speak up. Suggest that you know the student is capable of more. Help the learner visualize what they would look like when they are attentive, immersed in class, understanding and actually learning what was being taught. Keep it simple. Do not push, just nudge. People, especially those who have tasted success before, are keen to pick these hints and follow along. They just need guardrails and signs. Be those two things for the students.

REWARD.

Students, especially those who are struggling, really like being applauded by the teacher or coach for their effort and successes. Exercise this important tool. Take time to appreciate good work or even effort to ask questions and understand. Appreciate good notes. Use emoticons to register your happiness for the progress made. All these add up to a feeling of being connected to the flow of the class.

We hope these techniques help you! Would love to hear what you practice and suggest. Email us at contact@instrukti.com