Best practices for teaching in a synchronous virtual classroom

Abstract

One of the major challenges that distance educators still face today in designing effective online courses is including interactivity. One of the ways this challenge has been addressed is through the use of synchronous virtual classroom technology. In this session, we will discuss some of the best practices for teaching in a synchronous virtual classroom. The practices are categorized in different topics on how instructors who teach using synchronous virtual classrooms can make it more effective: (1) Before the Virtual Class session, (2) Introduction, (3) Limiting Access/Guest Access, (4) Network Connection, (5) Archiving, (6) PowerPoint Slides, (7) Interaction, and (8) Setting Class Rules. The participants will also be given a demo of the Horizon Wimba Virtual Classroom at the session (depending on the availability of the internet access).