On-screen classrooms

With the new norm of virtual classes, keeping students engaged can be a task. Two teachers share tried-and-tested hacks.

Recently, Pune-based Chemistry teacher Moumita B-s LinkedIn post of a virtual class went viral. She resorted to using her own -jugaad- in the absence of a tripod. Closer home, teachers are doing all they can to help make the transition to virtual learning for their students, effective and engaging. Here are a few suggestions that can help teachers.

Moumita B, a teacher, used a hanger as a tripod. pic/linkedin

Bonita Deniz, music educator

• Always have a presentation. Children are visual learners. I try not to make the slides
• too verbose and use cartoon characters they identify with.
• The moment I shared my screen, the kids accidentally scribbled on it while scrolling. A parent suggested I switch off annotations, which helped.
• Children like to feel special, so it-s important to address them by name. Sometimes, the devices have the parent-s name on it so make the effort to ask. I also give them individual songs to keep them more engaged.
• Give them something to take away, practise and send back. I keep the tasks optional as a lot of learning happens in the class.
• I struggled to find the perfect device. I face the camera with an instrument. I have to keep the gadget at a distance. It-s best to invest in a tripod to maintain the frame.

Lalitha K Rajesh, secondary teacher history and civics, CP Goenka International School, Thane

Lalitha K Rajesh

• Visual aids help enhance the teaching more effective. I use an app called Edmodo which allows you to add captions to assignments that makes it more exciting for students.
• Voice modulation and drama help make the class more interesting, and less
• monotonous.
• Ensure there is no disturbance in the background so it appears like a normal classroom session.

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