As the world moves towards a more digital age, the use of synchronous virtual instruction has become increasingly common. Synchronous virtual instruction is a method of teaching where students and teachers interact in real time via the internet. This mode of instruction has become popular because it allows learners to participate in real-time, regardless of their location. However, to ensure that synchronous virtual instruction is effective, teachers must master the art of delivering instruction in this format. This article will provide best practices for teachers who are using synchronous virtual instruction as their primary mode of teaching.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Understand the Advantages and Limitations of Synchronous Virtual Instruction
Before teachers can begin to deliver instruction using synchronous virtual instruction, they must understand the advantages and limitations of this mode of instruction. One of the main advantages of synchronous virtual instruction is that it allows for real-time interaction between students and teachers. Learners can ask questions and receive immediate feedback from their teachers. Additionally, it allows students to collaborate and interact with each other in real time, even if they are in different locations.
However, there are also limitations to synchronous virtual instruction. For instance, it may be challenging for learners who are not tech-savvy to navigate the technology. Additionally, synchronous virtual instruction requires a reliable internet connection, which may not be available in all areas.
Plan the Virtual Lesson Effectively
To ensure that synchronous virtual instruction is effective, teachers must plan their virtual lessons effectively. This includes developing a detailed lesson plan that outlines the learning objectives, teaching strategies, and assessment methods. Teachers must also ensure that the technology they are using is reliable and that they have tested it before the virtual lesson.
During the lesson, teachers must ensure that they deliver the content in a clear and concise manner. They should also include interactive activities, such as polls or quizzes, to keep learners engaged.
Create a Positive Virtual Learning Environment
To ensure that synchronous virtual instruction is effective, teachers must create a positive virtual learning environment. This includes setting expectations for student behavior and participation. Teachers must also ensure that they are available to answer questions and provide feedback to learners.
Teachers can also use virtual icebreakers and other interactive activities to help learners feel more comfortable and engaged during the virtual lesson. Additionally, teachers must ensure that they provide equal opportunities for all students to participate in the virtual lesson, regardless of their location or background.
Use Technology Effectively
To ensure that synchronous virtual instruction is effective, teachers must use technology effectively. This includes selecting the appropriate technology for the lesson and ensuring that all learners can access it. Teachers must also ensure that they are familiar with the technology and that they can troubleshoot any issues that arise.
Teachers can also use technology to enhance the learning experience. For instance, they can use multimedia, such as videos and images, to illustrate concepts. Additionally, teachers can use screen sharing and annotation tools to help learners visualize complex ideas.
Assess Learning Effectively
To ensure that learners are achieving the desired learning outcomes, teachers must assess learning effectively. This includes using a variety of assessment methods, such as quizzes, tests, and projects. Teachers must also provide feedback to learners that are specific, actionable, and timely.
Assessment in synchronous virtual instruction can also be challenging because teachers cannot observe learners in person. Therefore, teachers must use assessment methods that are appropriate for virtual learning environments.
Conclusion
Synchronous virtual instruction has become increasingly popular as the world moves towards a more digital age. However, to ensure that this mode of instruction is effective, teachers must master the art of delivering instruction in this format. This article has provided best practices for teachers who are using synchronous virtual instruction as their primary mode of teaching. By understanding the advantages and limitations of synchronous virtual instruction, planning virtual lessons effectively, creating a positive virtual learning environment, using technology effectively, and assessing learning effectively, teachers can ensure that learners are engaged and achieving the desired learning outcomes.
Asynchronous virtual instruction can also be a valuable supplement to synchronous instruction. Teachers can use asynchronous instruction to provide learners with additional resources, such as recorded lectures or online discussion forums. This allows learners to review the content at their own pace and to collaborate with each other asynchronously.
In conclusion, the use of synchronous virtual instruction has become increasingly popular as the world moves towards a more digital age. Teachers who are using this mode of instruction must master the art of delivering instruction in this format. By following the best practices outlined in this article, teachers can ensure that synchronous virtual instruction is effective and engaging for all learners, regardless of their location or background.