As educators are gaining more experience in hybrid and virtual learning environments, they are realizing how critical building relationships, having real-time communication, and engaging students live is for student success. Determining an appropriate schedule that allows for live instruction can create a positive learning culture for students in flexible learning spaces. Also, leveraging different formats of synchronous learning and designing effective instruction leads to more differentiated support and meaningful connection with students.
Whether live classes are happening via video conferencing tools or in-person as part of a hybrid learning model, being intentional about how this time is spent will make it more engaging and impactful for students. In this Virtual Workshop, participants will:
This workshop is intended to support teachers and coaches in designing more structured, impactful synchronous learning time that supports all students and creates a space for accountability, engagement, and relationship building.
Define
In this section, participants define the what, why, and how of synchronous learning and what benefits and challenges live learning brings. They brainstorm ideas for what synchronous learning could be through a collaborative Jamboard activity.
Explore
In this section, participants identify ways to mitigate some of the challenges that arise when creating real-time learning through simple tips and strategies. Examples, such as the live assessment tool Formative, are modeled for participants to experience ways to engage learners.
Build
In this section, participants work in small groups to strategically plan how to enhance live learning sessions using the Define-Explore-Build model then share out their ideas in a gallery walk strategy. Participants will brainstorm ways to apply learning to different formats of synchronous learning including: