La virtual classroom is a training method widely used by companies and preferred by employees. It has already existed for twenty years, when the digital learning landscape emerged.
What is a virtual classroom?
A virtual classroom is a training method that brings together a trainer and learners using technology. To activate learners' attention, several activities can be deployed, including quizzes, open questions, evaluations. Interactivity is fundamental.
The virtual classroom is not only a technical means of providing training, it is a pedagogical modality included in a course of training. It is different from a webinar because it is not a unique videoconference. A virtual classroom can complement face-to-face training within the framework of modality blended learning, by combining face-to-face and virtual. Elle facilitates exchanges, because it takes place live and encourages speaking. It is also a time-saver for learners and allows develop a sense of community. It is very important, but it should not be abused.
How to successfully lead a virtual classroom?
First of all, preparing for the virtual classroom is fundamental. To control and maximize the success of training courses, it is necessary to:
- have a training medium (airy texts, keywords, images in order to encourage learners' attention)
- engaging learners
- think about the courses beforehand (or place this or that activity at the right time)
- create the program/summary of the virtual course
- promote interactions between people by using, for example, discussion times and surveys
- insert additional resources on some key concepts seen in class
- monitor once the virtual classroom has been completed to know the connection rate, the completion rate... And improve future courses.
Attention: you should not transpose the course to a remote classroom, it does not work because the attention of the audience is very different and more difficult to keep.
The benefits of the virtual classroom
The class offers the possibility of sharing documents, conducting quizzes or surveys, it's not just a theoretical course! Here are its benefits:
- The flexibility : no geographical constraints, which makes it possible to compare the points of view and values of the work, in addition to being very practical
- one easy speaking especially when the course takes place in small groups
- promotes a Feeling of fellowship and social learning
- have a recurring appointment with a trainer and Increase your skills
The disadvantages of the virtual classroom
Although the advantages of using the virtual classroom are numerous, any method has disadvantages:
- the constraint of an optimal connection and good equipment
- commitment and difficult investment on the part of learners
- difficulty maintaining learners' attention
- a certain lack of socialization if virtual classes are very frequent
To summarize, the virtual classroom is now a common practice in businesses. It has many advantages, but also disadvantages. The key is to find a good balance so as not to tire employees out and to diversify learning methods. Conducting only virtual classes is counterproductive.
