7 characteristics of a virtual Classroom
There are a variety of characteristics that apply to online classrooms. These features are focused on creating an environment that is conducive for learning. They comprise practical tools, ideal teaching methods, and other standards that help students gain access to as well as comprehend the full course contents.
In this post we'll go over seven features of a virtual classroom that are important to know about and the best way to implement them on your own web-based learning platforms. So let's get going!
1. An Easy Layout that's Simple to follow
Virtual classrooms need to be clearly created and easy to understand.
Elements that can help with this be:
- Course descriptions. These will ideally describe the benefits of the course and the things students will learn at the end. Write them in a manner which entices potential students to take the class.
- Content library. Students should be able to see the contents of the course as well as the learning sequence. Add videos, documents, infographics, or additional materials as they are needed.
- Tracking progress. A helpful visual aid to encourage students to stay on track throughout the course.
While designing your layout it's important to make sure it's free of clutter. Remove clutter from the page to create the sake of a clean, organized area:
Additionally, you should limit visible content that may draw attention away from the course. The goal is to help students to succeed with the modules, not for users to navigate to different areas on your site.
2. features and content that are designed for learners.
Virtual classrooms must be designed towards the students first, not the teacher. The instructor's role is to assist students in learning and support students as they progress through their lessons.
Your LMS must provide the users (students) the devices they require to organize their own learning activities. It should make information and resources easily available so that students are able to quickly locate what they require.
It could also be helpful to put your contact info (or the Help URL) on a prominent location for faster resolution. Make sure students know that you're available to provide technical assistance when they need it.
3. Self-paced Classes with Modules and Flexibility
The students will probably progress through your courses at their own pace. It's not a reason to avoid deadlines when needed. However, for clarity, it's important to identify the modules that should be studied in sequence, or if it's a stand-alone lesson that does not require prior understanding of the foundational framework:
For video content, break topics into shorter segments. Studies suggest that less than 6 minutes is the optimal length to keep students engaged. You won't want to interrupt the lesson at a awkward moment, therefore the use of a script can aid in.
Closing out your sequence modules by introducing your next lesson will motivate students to move along until they complete the course. Notifications and reminders will also assist students who self-paced remain on track.
When you're creating your module it is important to provide sufficient information to cover your subjects without boggling students with unnecessary facts. You may have more content and resources than you need.
If you want it, you can offer it as a bonus item. Perhaps you might add such materials to a For further exploration section, and offer it to students who are keen to learn more.
4. Socially Connected Student Groups
You should be visible and easily accessible to these groups to help facilitate conversations and keep them in the focus of course material and the associated learning. Additionally, you'll have the chance to monitor engagement and ensure the members of your group are adhering to rules of the community.
Being the creator of your course, showing up on these groups of social interaction can help you too. Through connecting with students, you'll get a better understanding of how efficient your course is, and how students evaluate their learning experience (and environment) that you've created.
As an added benefit, a social component may help students share the course with friends and to recommend the course to friends and family.
5. An Secure Foundation to Protect Student Data
It goes without saying that virtual classrooms should be secure environments, keeping each student's data private. Being the instructor, it's your responsibility to ensure this security by using an LMS which meets or exceeds security guidelines.
6. The Courses Are Measured Through Quizzes And Certification Certificates of Completion
Quizzes are an easy way to accomplish this. When you evaluate progress at various stages throughout the course it will help students retain knowledge through re-learning the fundamental concepts.
Quizzes also allow students to demonstrate their knowledge and receive a reward for their efforts.
These rewards will help to keep the students engaged and help them remember their achievements.
7. Mobile-friendly Interfaces to Learn On the Go
A study found that 64 percent of the respondents believe the accessibility of mobile devices is essential for online learning. Additionally having mobile-friendly choices can improve participation by up to 72 percent.
A survey from Merrill Lynch course participants, the students using smartphones were able to finish 45 percent more quickly than those who used desktops, having similar scores on tests. That's an impressive statistic, especially if you want students to be able to finish their courses.
Conclusion
Creating a virtual classroom may be intimidating at first and especially when you're attempting to learn the basics of an LMS. It's the idea of creating the environment to help students comprehend your material and quickly progress through your course.
In this article we have discussed the seven features of a virtual class that include:
- A simple layout that's easy to follow.
- Learner-centered content and features.
- Self-paced classes with modules and flexibility.
- Student groups that are socially connected.
- An ensuring foundation to safeguard student data.
- Exams are measured by quizzes, and completion certificates.
- Interactive mobile interfaces that allow for learning on the go.
Do you have questions about the characteristics of a virtual class? Tell us in the section of comments below!