We know that students are happier and do better in school when they’re engaged. I believe that understanding the connection between students’ actions, thoughts and feelings is critical to increasing student engagement.
In a remote classroom, how can teachers help to keep kids engaged???
A recent EdSurge newsletter explains the three components of student engagement (behavioral, cognitive and emotional).
The article also has great suggestions for how teachers can increase student engagement in remote classrooms…
“One of the most consistent findings in engagement research is that a teacher has an enormous impact on the student’s experience, influencing everything from students’ perceived learning and self efficacy to their motivation. Being an engaged teacher online means being visible in the class, whether that’s through discussion posts, announcements or assignment feedback. Teachers can emphasize their visibility and overall engagement in a remote classroom by implementing these practices:”
Post regular announcements: A funny video or meme along with a hello and a weekly reminder of due dates can go a long way in reconnecting learners.
Reply early and often: Students need to feel that teachers are immediately available to help and may feel isolated when educators take a full business day to respond to a request for help. Quick communication builds connection.
Vary communication tools: Teachers should consider the communication preferences of individual students and make sure that their tools are best positioned to respond to students’ questions. Phone calls, synchronous video tools, instant messaging or texting are all good options to use in combination, depending on the district’s communication policies and student preferences.
Use feedback to build relationships: Providing personalized feedback to let students know their work has been reviewed can strengthen relations. Video feedback is also effective in building a connection with learners.
Physical connections under social distancing: Teacher parades and chalk messages on students' sidewalks are a great example of recent efforts teachers have taken to demonstrate their level of commitment to maintain high levels of engagement with their students. Similar online approaches such as recorded or live book readings and virtual office hours can be just as effective.
Read more…
Rice, Kerry and Kipp, Kristin. (2020, May 6). How Can Educators Tap Into Research to Increase Engagement During Remote Learning? EdSurge. Retrieve September 9, 2020 from https://www.edsurge.com/news/2020-05-06-how-can-educators-tap-into-research-to-increase-engagement-during-remote-learning.