Zoom in on Quick Tips for e-Learning

One thing has been certain during the pandemic, the world has quickly learned to rely on online video conferencing tools such as Zoom for classroom instruction. Instructional designers from Blackhawk Technical College’s Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning assist faculty every day with best practices in engaging students in online learning platforms. As we head into the summer session, it is a great time to review some tips and tricks for online and/or video classrooms from our team of experts.

Before the Session

Instructor

• Plan your content, keeping lecture portions short.
• Plan student engagement and interaction activities such as questions, discussions, break out rooms, and opportunities for student sharing.
• Plan your expectations and pre-session work and communicate that information with your students.

Student

• Plan ahead. Make sure your technology is ready and working.
• Plan ahead. Review expectations and complete and pre-session work.

During the Session

Instructor

• Welcome students, provide an overview of the session, and remind students of expectations. Record the session if possible.
• Deliver the lesson keeping lectures short.
• Foster and encourage discussion.
• Conduct formative assessments through polls or student sharing.
• Conclude the session with a recap – did you do what you said you were going to do. Assign work for the next session and direct students to additional resources.

Student

• Be fully present and participate; no multitasking.
• Work from a distraction-free location.
• Take notes, ask questions, and participate in discussions. Don’t stay on mute the entire class.

After the Session

Instructor

• Follow-up with students by providing a summary of the session and instructions on how to access the class recording and additional resources.
• Follow-up on any questions or items that were not fully addressed in the session.
• Remind students about any assignments.
• Begin preparations for the next session.

Student

• Review the recording and other resources from the session to answer questions or unclear points. Read the class summary.
• Complete and assignments or work related to the session.
• Prepare for the next session by completing any readings or additional assignments.

Many people may need time to adjust to e-learning. Blackhawk students who need assistance learning new platforms like Zoom and Blackboard can access resources through MyBTC (click the Yuja link on the homepage) or reach out to the IT HelpDesk at (608) 757-7711 or helpdesk@blackhawk.edu.

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