Connect and learn in the online classroom

The benefits of the online classroom

Synchronous or ‘live’ video sessions allow people to communicate at a distance in a way that is familiar and similar to face to face communication. Through a camera feed and a microphone, participants can convey meaning through visual and audio queues in ways which are not possible with text-based communication. This makes live sessions highly effective for discussing content and working collaboratively.

Here we provide some general tips on how to make the most of the online classroom:

Find a quiet study space

Before you join an online classroom, it’s good to find a quiet space so that you can hear others, and they can hear you. Ideally, away from traffic and family members.

If you have a set of earphones with a microphone this can improve your audio quality and help you to focus. Make sure your device is charged or you have a power socket nearby. You can usually log in a few minutes early, if you want to check your connection and hardware.

Netiquette

Be on time and focus on the discussion. Try not to check emails, shop online, or work out with Joe Wicks at the same time.

Be respectful of other students, just as you would in a normal classroom and avoid speaking over one another.

If you are not speaking, turn off your microphone so that background noises aren’t broadcast to everyone online.

If you want to speak, it is good practice to click the raise your hand option in the session, which indicates to the moderator that you wish to speak.

Use the chat function

Most online classrooms allow for text chat, which you may find easier to use than speaking up in a session. Just remember, that the chat will be recorded if the session is being recorded. Keep the chat relevant and try not to develop a parallel chat discussion that becomes off topic. It can be hard to take in both chat and audio at the same time, especially if either or both are fast moving. If something is important, then slow down and make it the sole focus of the session, before you move on to the next point.

Smaller group discussion

Sometimes a live session will split off into groups to get people talking and thinking on an issue. Often, you will need a scribe to record your group discussion or brainstorm as Blackboard Collaborate won’t record group discussion automatically. If in doubt, check with the person running the class.

Not everything will go according to plan – that's okay.

Technical glitches and slow internet will occasionally make live presentations hard to access or follow. If you encounter connection issues, it is important not to get frustrated, most online classroom tools will have guidance on troubleshooting your setup, and support will be available.

Visit the ISD guidance on using video conferencing or “online webinar” software.

Don’t forget to move

If you have a lot of online classes on the same day, make sure to take a break in between. Stand up, go for a short walk, or move to another space in the house. This can help you feel refreshed and alert.

Have fun!

Live sessions aren’t all work and no play. Look out for opportunities to connect with other students and your tutors in live discussions or online common rooms. You can learn more about online classroom tips on the student course by signing up to the Connected Learning at UCL Moodle course.

Eliot Hoving, Learning Technologist, ISD Digital Education