Virtual classrooms are the future of the education sector. It has the potential to build an interactive and inclusive environment in the classroom and also helps to make the future generation more informed about technology, which is extremely crucial in today’s day and age. There are various ways to make this happen. Let’s take a peek into how all of them work:
Table of Contents
Ways Technology Makes Your Classroom More Interactive
Learning Management Systems
LMS stands for Learning Management System, and as the name suggests, it is software that makes learning easier. What it largely does is document, administer, track, report, and deliver training modules, courses, learning programs, etc. The education sector has been quite receptive to LMS, and reviews amongst various platforms have been largely positive, even though some have a few drawbacks. Check out this Blackbaud reviews list to get a better understanding of this.
This software is mainly used in compiling course materials. However, it can also be used to give assessments to students and track their progress.
Content Creation Tools
Some content creation tools exist specifically to create content for interactive e-learning modules and training. These come in extremely handy while creating quizzes, assessments, games, surveys, etc. It is also capable of building entire discussion-driven simulations and scenarios; that ensure students are more actively involved in the classroom.
Video Conferencing Platforms
Video conferencing platforms are an excellent place to have virtual classroom sessions. It helps in creating a community around learning, as it allows you to connect with other classes and invite guest speakers from anywhere around the world. Features like whiteboards, breakout rooms, and screen sharing ensure that the students get the traditional classroom experience from the comfort of their homes. A lot of students cannot attend offline classes due to health, commute, and finance-related issues, but with the existence of virtual classrooms, that is no more a problem.
ePortfolios
ePortfolios are like traditional portfolios, except they are paperless and completely digital. Students can showcase their work and receive feedback from their professors with the help of this tool. They can also do self-assessment or get creative with multimedia projects and engaging presentations, all in one, through ePortfolios.
Adaptive Learning Platforms
A lot of students find it difficult to grasp specific subjects in a generalized classroom teaching environment. They need individual care and attention to help them navigate the subjects. This is where adaptive learning programs come into play. They draw data and algorithms to create a customized learning experience. From lessons and assessments to feedback, everything can be personalized to the student’s needs with the help of these platforms.
Gamification
Gamification is the practice of inculcating gaming elements into non-game environments. A lot of e-learning platforms use this process to make learning more engaging and stimulating. It uses features like leaderboards, badges, and points to create a more goal-oriented yet fun approach. This provides rewards to students when they have completed tasks, which keeps them invested in learning.
As we can see, introducing technology in classrooms enhances student participation and intrigue. Not only that, but it also includes students who need special guidance and support in the learning process and helps build a fraternity based on knowledge and action.
One of the only disadvantages of a virtual learning atmosphere is it can get easily disconnected because of faulty connections and power blackouts, so it is always important for the facilitators to keep a backup plan ready in the event of technical difficulties.
