Structuring the Learning Space
Collectively establish classroom norms in Zoom
What does it mean to be “in class” via Zoom?
What does “being present” look like?
What does “being engaged” look like?
How do we create internal accountability within the group around the norms?
How do we revisit this discussion about norms as we figure our way through?
Provide an outline of how the class time will be spent so students know what to expect
Give space to check in at the beginning of class
Plan and use breaks
Class Activities
Do pulse checks regularly throughout the class (“Where are people’s energy on a 5-scale?”)
Encourage movement (standing up, stretching, jumping jacks, etc)--remind folks of their bodies and its needs.
Use collaborative tools such as Google Docs or Jamboards to take notes, have students provide commentary, to collectively examine a text or visual.
Provide prompts (ahead of time when possible) and ask students to write answers in the chat
Aim to talk/convey information for no more than 10 minutes (and even there, give space to stop for questions).
Use the popcorn method to pass the conversation along (one person talks and then calls on the next person)
Bring guests into the zoom space for conversations with people who might not have been able to come to the physical class but can still contribute something to the students’ learning and experience.
Create consultation spaces where students are all working in breakout room(s) on things and can pop into the main room (or another breakout room) to discuss issues/questions with you.
Virtual Show & Tell: Have students share things that they normally wouldn’t be able to show/share class (e.g. pets, kids, photos, objects of meaning)
Instructor Practices
As best as possible, make sure your lighting is good so students can clearly see you.
Open the space 5-10 minutes early (and let students know) in case they want to drop in and chat with you or others.
Atmosphere
During breaks or at the start of class, play music (even better, have students create the playlist). (How to play music in zoom)
Your energy matters; what you project into the space can often be reflected back
Sit with silence after asking questions or when there’s a purpose to pause. Let students fill the silence (and this might mean waiting 10 or more seconds in silence).
Use and/or encourage students to use virtual backgrounds (when possible) that reflect
Enable live transcripts each class to make your Zoom classroom more accessible (Here’s how to turn on live transcripts in zoom).