One of my favorite bloggers, Teach Create Motivate, suggested using Google to make interactive lessons for students. I've almost tried it all. From breakout rooms, virtual escape rooms and interactive Google Slides. As she mentioned in her latest blog post, she talks about struggling with keeping kids engaged virtually during this time of year. I have seen a huge decrease in engagement from students since we returned from winter break. Ashley talks about the importance of using timers during virtual lessons. I originally did not give it much thought, but after the first few lessons I implemented it, I noticed a huge difference. Students were more interactive online AND more willing to share out responses once they knew how much time they had to think and could be prepared to share.
https://www.teachcreatemotivate.com/3-ways-to-engage-students-after-the-break/
Yes! I love timers. I have always used them, even when in person, but have noticed a huge benefit for my virtual students. I teach Hybrid, so at first I was just continuing what I had always done in my art room. Timers help my students know how much time they have to work on their projects until they have to clean up. However, I just stumbled across the engagement of my virtual students. I am glad you found something to bring your students back to the screen. Anything that will bring students back to learning this year is worth a try.
ReplyDeleteAgreed! A big issue we have for our virtual students is them logging into the Meet, and then leaving the computer. So we're literally talking to nobody. Using timers has definitely helped and made them more accountable.
DeleteTeachers list timers as one of the most beneficial features of mobile phones.
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