Virtual classrooms: igniting engagement solutions after admitting challenges in a space where students lack interaction Discussing challenges of virtual classrooms and solutions teachers need to adapt in their teaching methods

Mai Kamal

Online learning is learning that is supported by smart devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops, which can be used to access information anywhere and anytime using the internet. Many wonder why virtual classes became the most popular way of learning. It is because this venture added more flexibility and self-paced learning. This article will discuss challenges in virtual classes and how to overcome them.

Many virtual classroom lessons seem to prioritize the teacher's role in delivering information, with students primarily receiving rather than actively engaging. This limited interaction can restrict opportunities for students to collaborate in groups, develop critical thinking skills by analyzing their peers' work, and receive valuable feedback not only from the teacher but also from their classmates. As a result, these lessons might not fully nurture the development of well-rounded academic and social skills in students (1).

Challenges in virtual classrooms

Both students and teachers believe virtual classrooms require more student initiative and self-reliance compared to traditional classrooms. However, student success varies in these environments.

While some believe readily available resources and support are sufficient for virtual learners, placing the responsibility on them to utilize them effectively, others argue that virtual classrooms are better suited for mature and independent learners. They suggest that students who struggle with independent learning might not benefit from, or even be suitable for, virtual classrooms.

While some teachers simply saw their role as online facilitators, others took a more active approach. These proactive educators adapted their teaching methods and employed various strategies to engage and support all their students. Teachers went above and beyond to create a conducive learning environment tailored to their students' specific needs. A key aspect of this approach was fostering a supportive relationship. These teachers demonstrated genuine care for each student's learning, collaborated with them to set achievable goals, and proactively followed up with students facing difficulties.

VC classes, especially with diverse locations, struggle with student communication and teamwork. While some students don't mind the isolation, others find it hinders learning and engagement. This suggests a need for strategies to bridge the gap and encourage collaboration in VC settings (4)(5).

Tips to master the remote learning landscape 

Pe-recorded lectures offer students the flexibility to access course material whenever needed. Fostering a dynamic and interactive virtual classroom environment through engaging strategies is crucial for maximizing online learner engagement. Ultimately, online education should be designed and implemented in a way that prioritizes creativity, relevance, and a student-centered approach.

Spicing up the virtual classroom presence to keep students engaged is suggested . Using a more energetic and enthusiastic tone, incorporating humor and even "silly" questions to spark student’s interest and participation. Here there is a huge importance of entertaining, as students in virtual environments are essentially isolated and require extra effort to be drawn into the lesson. This approach aims to combat the challenges of a virtual setting and foster a more interactive and enjoyable learning experience (6). 

In YouLearnt, the website that has e-learning experts, and the interactive platform that will transform the training experience. Where education experts meet with students, there are many strategies that teachers discuss in blogs and in the YouLearnt community. The community where the most important education strategies and their development is discussed.