Training courses are now taking place both face-to-face and remotely. Among the main tools used for distance learning, we find the virtual classroom.
Following the global Covid-19 pandemic, companies and training centers had to adapt and digitize their offers or training courses in order to guarantee continuity in learning. This distance learning system has succeeded in convincing a large majority of learners despite some technical problems and some initial skepticism.
Online training methods have gradually evolved and certain tools, often used in a personal setting, have then shown their limits for companies, especially in terms of functionalities. The virtual classroom can then answer many problems in the field of training..
Definition of a virtual classroom
The virtual classroom is a tool used for remote training, meetings or courses, generally in a strategy of Blended Learning. It offers the possibility to lead or follow a training course in real time, with the sole and only constraint of having an internet connection. It is therefore an ideal solution for connecting training actors in a virtual classroom via a computer, tablet or smartphone.
What are the essential tools for a virtual classroom?
The webcam
The virtual classroom is a way of bringing participants together despite the distance, so it is necessary to have a webcam in order to see the other members of the virtual classroom. It is an essential tool to facilitate exchanges, but also a way for the trainer to visually check the comprehension or attention of the participants.
The interactive whiteboard
The interactive whiteboard is very useful for sharing documents, making diagrams live or offering a learner to present a work. This virtual whiteboard can include many functionalities such as the fact of interacting directly on documents via handwriting, shapes, lines, etc.
The advantage of the interactive whiteboard for a virtual classroom is to reproduce the table in a training room and to allow the trainer to involve the scores visually.
Public or private messaging
In order to be able to exchange more easily, the cat is essential. It allows you to discuss with all the parties involved:
- Collectively to answer a general question, share a link or document, or provide information;
- In a private way to exchange in a more discreet way between trainer and learner.
The transition between public and private discussion should be smooth. In addition, a chat tool should be easy to use for participants who want to ask questions or comments without having to interrupt the trainer.
Screen sharing
Screen sharing is very useful for showing external sites, documents, or applications to learners for a virtual classroom. This is particularly useful for “turning” a course into an interactive tutorial session. Sharing documents allows for a more successful dissemination of knowledge.
It can also be reversed in order to verify the learner's level of mastery during a practical exercise.
The attendance report
To avoid asking yourself the question of The presence or absence of learners behind their screens, it may be a good idea to automatically generate a presence report if your platform allows it, all with an electronic signature.
The virtual classroom is therefore a collaborative space, An essential social learning vector for learners and trainers who want to improve their online training sessions. However, care must be taken to choose the right tool, as virtual classroom solutions are numerous and have different functionalities.
How to Facilitate a Virtual Classroom: best practices
- Prepare your work space: when you're getting ready to lead a virtual classroom, it's vital to make sure that your workspace is conducive to online teaching.
- Download useful tools and plugins: use tools such as virtual whiteboards, screen sharing, chat box, and real-time messaging.
- Understand the differences between virtual and classroom learning: recognize the benefits of online learning, including reducing social anxiety and providing access to resources online.
- Define your goals and vision for the classroom: involve students in creating rules and objectives.
- Learn from your students: pay attention to their behavior, preferences, and curiosity.
- Use icebreakers: encourage participation by starting a game of Quirky questions and answers.
- Encourage interactive participation: Encourage students to ask questions, share experiences, and collaborate.
- Work in small groups: promote creativity and interaction by dividing the class into groups of 4 to 10 participants.
- Create surveys and quizzes to assess knowledge: Assess student comprehension with surveys and quizzes.
- Plan moments of “break”: Give learners time to breathe a little...
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Virtual Classroom
Benefits
The benefits of virtual classrooms are numerous! You benefit from the flexibility to participate from anywhere, from technological assistance, of a Time-saving and Of silver, of a instant exam feedback, of accessibility, and of the versatility for different ages, subjects, and learning styles.
Disadvantages
However, there are a few drawbacks, including distractions at home, opportunities for limited connections In terms of interactions, and the challenge of accessing technical resources for some participants.
