Virtual Classrooms
Virtual classroom tools use video conferencing to allow students and educators to be in the same digital space at the same time with audio and/or video capabilities, replicating some features of the face-to-face classroom including large or small group synchronous instruction, labs, or other moderated learning activities.
Examples of tools in this category include
What does this look like in my class?
Why and when are you using these tools?
Virtual classrooms are ideal for synchronous learning opportunities:
Teacher-led direct instruction
Whole group discussions
Student-led sharing of their learning
Individual student support
Incorporating Interactive learning tools
These tools can also be used for asynchronous instruction using screencasting.
What are students doing?
Participating in a virtual classroom community
Contributing ideas to the classroom conversation
Listening, responding, and posing questions to the teacher
Interacting with other students in small groups, with a partner, and in large group settings
What are educators doing?
Engaging learners through real-time instruction
Promoting student growth, community, and contribution
Facilitating discussions (small groups, partners, and large groups)
Managing class participation equitably through active listening and questioning
Leveraging real-time learning opportunities to promote student voice and agency
What digital resources do educators need to use virtual classroom tools?
Virtual classroom tools require students and educator to have a wifi-connected device with microphone and camera. While a camera isn't required, video promotes engagement, participation, and visual feedback. If an educator wishes to capture video beyond their face or screen, a separate camera may be necessary.
These tools tend to require more wireless bandwidth, particularly when using video. To troubleshoot and plan for bandwidth issues, see the guides listed below under 'What else do I need to know?'
Which tools could I use?
Featured Tools
Other tools not featured on this site
Some links to the company websites may be blocked by district web filters.
What else do I need to know?
Social Emotional Learning (SEL)
Virtual classrooms will never be the same as physical classrooms and quality interaction with educators. Take the time to build relationships with your students to provide opportunities for a daily check-in, authentic interaction, and slow the pacing of teaching curriculum.
10 SEL activities for Students
Strategies to get students to turn on their cameras
Stress Management using Pear Deck
Planning for Slow or Unreliable Wireless Access
Virtual classroom tools are particularly bandwidth intensive. Here are some guides to manage use when wireless access is slow or unreliable for students or educators.
Reducing Zoom Data and Bandwidth Use