Being a virtual classroom instructor is a growing need in Australia. According to reports, fewer kids from the provincial and remote areas are able to meet the Year 7 milestone in learning. At least, the statistics are lower (60%) compared to those in the metropolitan areas (78%). It can be assumed that children from the rural areas have a difficult time getting to learning facilities and educational institutions.
This is one of the things that drive online learning in Australia. It is now getting the full support of institutions because it overcomes the physical obstacles that hinder children from learning. Of course, that also means there is a need for virtual instructors that will facilitate the online learning process.
A teacher, without a doubt, is a very noble profession. It is a career that requires dedication. Whether it is done in a traditional classroom or in a modern virtual classroom, teachers have to possess the right qualities that will make them effective instructors.
While being an instructor is no easy feat, there are things that you can concentrate on to be very good at it. Here are some of the things that you need to consider if you really want to be a great online teacher.
Know your skill.
All teachers have a specific quality that makes them great. It could be their ability to simplify complex concepts. Or it could be their patience. There are various traits that will make you a good virtual instructor. Identify what it is so you can do best and focus on that.
Translate the skill online
Whatever skill you identified can be translated online. If you have the patience to teach students, you can set up a platform that will allow you to communicate with online students. There are so many online tools and applications that will allow you to be the best instructor in a virtual classroom.
Research the tools you can use
There are many online tools that you can use to help yourself be more effective in teaching. These tools should complement the needs of the course. Make sure you tie it up with the learning materials that you will use. This also includes the various platforms that you can use. These include social media networks and similar online platforms.
Make sure you are visible online
Another thing that you need to do to become an effective instructor for a virtual classroom is to be visible online. You want the online learners to know how to get in touch with you. This can be through email or social media. If they have questions, they can get in touch with you immediately. Do not be afraid to show your picture too. You will be more reliable as an instructor if they can match you with a face.
Set a schedule
The online learners should know your schedule. Like when you can go online and communicate with them or the turnaround time for emails or other correspondences. More than the time you spend with students, it is also important to define the limits of your participation. You need a break so you can recharge and give the learners your full attention.
Remember that as an instructor in a virtual classroom, you have a huge responsibility. You are in a position to influence the way of thinking of people. You should use that wisely.