Teaching in the 21st century has come a long way about the modalities used to spread information. Most universities need to abruptly adapt to an Online college format in the snap of a finger due to the pandemic.
But, though change is constant, you can only accept it. Thus, take a look at these nifty tips to help you embark on your online teaching without a hitch.
The basic equipment you’ll need
Every teacher, instructor, or professor wants only the best learning experience for their students. But, you can’t achieve such a feat if you’re not prepared – especially on the technical side.
Thus, if you still don’t have any idea what accessories and equipment you’ll need to use, better continue reading. This crucial information can either make or break your professional teaching career.
Computing device
When we talk about computing devices, they simply mean laptops and PCs. These are the most basic equipment that you should have, or you won’t be able to teach remotely.
Though we can rely on mobile phones, they aren’t as powerful and well-equipped compared to PCs and laptops. But, they’re a good beginner tool to use in teaching especially if you’re only buying time to buy a laptop or PC.
If a mobile phone’s your best option at the moment, it’s best to buy a tripod. In this way, you can just place the phone on it while hosting a live broadcast of your lesson for the day.
Plus, mobile phones have the most basic functions you’ll need for virtual learning: chat, live video, recording, and even editing options. What more can you ask for, right?
Stable and dependable internet
What good would a powerful laptop or PC do if your internet connection’s laggy, right? Not only is it troublesome to constantly repeat what you said, but it also frustrates you and your online students in the long term.
Thus, it’s always a good idea to do a thorough search of the ISPs available in your area and choose which has the most reliable speed. Whether it’s wired or data connection, what’s important is it won’t cause disruptions.
Web camera and microphone
Last, but not least, you’ll need a good webcam and microphone to help you get your message across. Since face-to-face classes aren’t viable now, you’ll have to compensate on how your students can associate your name to a real human being.
Though most laptops have built-in speakers, microphones, and webcams, they aren’t as high quality as you want them to be. For the most part, the images are grainy, and the microphone’s not equipped with noise-canceling features.
If you’re quite tight on the pocket, a budget microphone that sits close to your mouth is a good option. Built-on microphones on earbuds can also be a temporary solution to your dilemma.
But, if you already have the budget, invest in the best noise-canceling microphones and HD-quality webcams.
Conducive teaching environment
Even if you buy all the best devices for your online class, nothing beats setting up an area dedicated to teaching online. And, with a dedicated room, it should be quiet (free from background noise) and with decent lighting.
To achieve this goal, search a room that’s distraction-free. Also, you can place your online teaching set up near the window for indirect sunlight. If you have directional lamps tilt them so they won’t blow out your on-screen image.
Remote teaching tools that are free for educators
Now, if you’ve prepared all the hardware, equipping your device with the right apps and tools is the next step. After all, computing devices merely are devices unless you install the software in them.
View some of the recommended apps for educators. Some of them even offer free unlimited access for teachers, so might as well take advantage of them.
Learning platforms
- For college instructors: Canvas, Microsoft Office 365 Education
- For basic education instructors: Zoom, Webex, Slack
Document sharing apps
- Google Drive
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Dropbox
- WeTransfer
Video sharing apps
- Camtasia
Live broadcasting platform
- YouTube
Now that you know all about these tools and apps, are you ready to make your online college classes a hit? Take these into consideration, and you’ll ensure a lively online class from now on.
