Best Practices in Virtual Learning

Teaching in a virtual environment includes structured learning opportunities for students which uses synchronous (real-time communication with students) and/or asynchronous (learning that does not occur at the same time or place) experiences. Virtual learning is not simply moving face-to-face instruction into an online setting. It requires a different set of skills for teachers to be proficient. Items such as classroom management, engagement, and feedback will look different than when we are face-to-face. The National Standards for Quality provide guidance for how quality online teaching looks. Additionally, this article from Teaching Times discusses teaching styles needed for online learning.


This section will include descriptions of synchronous and asynchronous instruction, ideas for virtual classroom management, ideas for creating engagement, and ways to support all learners.