The recent introduction of online classes to the general public has been met with both skepticism and excitement. Virtual classrooms have become an option for distance learning students around the world. For many this represents a revolutionary step forward in their education. The ability to take courses from accredited colleges and universities without having to travel or relocate for a semester or even a year has created a positive sense of empowerment for the online student. However, as the market expands and makes available more online programs, some of the traditional characteristics of a virtual classroom are beginning to interfere.
A virtual classroom is a classroom within a virtual classroom. It is a teaching platform that is accessed through the Internet and used to deliver instruction via a computer screen. Since there is no physical classroom, the learning environment is unique and may not be identical to that found in real class settings. It is very important that the teacher and the student are able to create an effective learning environment by choosing different types of teaching methods and technologies. One way of creating an effective learning environment is through the use of a variety of teaching tools and technologies.
There are a number of different types of technological tools that are being used in today’s virtual classrooms. Most have been used in conventional classrooms in the past, but with the advent of online courses, some instructors are now using these in their distance learning programs. These include lecturing software, whiteboards and PowerPoint presentations. There are also the use of audio CDs and live streaming videos. These features are helpful to both student and instructor.
In online classes, some instructors will use online discussion boards to communicate with their students. This allows them to communicate with each individual student as well as their fellow students taking the course. Live streaming video and audio conferences are also available to the instructor and other students taking the online classes. These interactive features make virtual classrooms much more engaging for students and instructors.
One of the most common features seen in online courses is the use of multiple choice questions and quizzes. These allow the students to answer questions based on different types of knowledge and experience. Many of the online courses will also feature the use of mazes, puzzles and other different types of activities that will help students improve their knowledge of the subject.
The use of a webinar is also becoming very popular. A webinar can be used in a number of ways. It can be used as a tutorial or as an introduction to a new topic. In addition, some webinar platforms also offer live online sessions where a variety of professionals from around the world attend and learn from the latest advancements in technology and the best practices.
A webinar can be hosted by the instructor or by the website visitor. Most webinar platforms include the capability to have a variety of audience members join the webinar and participate. The benefits of a live webinar over a classroom session are several. First, the participant can ask questions at any time, anywhere, while still connected to the webinar.
Online learning environments, such as those offered by Webinars and VMs, represent an exciting and fresh approach to how we do learning. The ability to deliver lectures, podcasts, or even webinars without having to physically leave your home provides a powerful and flexible teaching tool. The flexibility also extends to the ways in which the material learned can be stored and shared. With social media and the cloud, instructors can extend their reach and influence far beyond their classroom. The virtual classrooms of the future will enable us to take full advantage of this teaching technology.