If you thought hosting a meeting over Zoom was tough, try teaching a class of teenagers over video conference. While the pandemic has changed the way employees work, it has also impacted how educators have to teach. Schools around the world are hosting online classes. This presents a new challenge for educators – how do you capture the attention of kids online? That’s why we’ve introduced Timeqube Online for teachers, to make teaching a much easier experience during this COVID crisis.
How does Timeqube Online work?
Timeqube Online is a virtual version of a Timeqube — a cube that acts as a timer by changing color with the passing of time. It’s an unobtrusive tool that can be used to keep discussions on track, even during video conferences.
Timeqube Online exists as a small cube at the bottom corner of your desktop screen. Meeting hosts can give out an unlimited number of Timequbes, so that every participant has a Timeqube on their screen. This way, everyone knows when time is running out. Additionally, Timeqube Online allows meeting hosts to give open mics to select participants, thus keeping everyone engaged in conversations during video conferences.
How does Timeqube Online work for teachers?
Educators can take advantage of these special features to keep their classes engaging and help children learn better remotely.
Firstly, introducing Timeqube Online to your students could be a fun way to spice up remote lessons. The gentle change in colours is a great way to captivate students, especially younger kids.
Timeqube Online can also be a great tool for teachers to encourage class discussions. For example, teachers can lead 10-minute brainstorming sessions and use Timeqube to stay on track. This can be used for smaller team discussions led by students as well.
Lastly, the open mic function allows teachers to control the extent and timing of class engagement. Remote learning can get messy if children chime in when teachers are speaking. Teachers can use the open mic function to allow students to speak during set discussions times or Q&As. On the other hand, some kids might be uncomfortable speaking up while remote learning. Teachers can then use the open mic function to specifically engage quieter students and give them an opportunity to share their ideas.
Tips for conducting online lessons
Want smoother class sessions? Here are some tips for teachers to improve the remote learning experience for students.
- Keep everyone engaged. Managing a class of kids is tough enough in real life, but more so online. Teachers might not know when students are genuinely paying attention, or if they understand what’s being taught. Set aside short Q&A sessions after explaining particularly difficult concepts. Alternatively, you could encourage team discussions between students to help them reaffirm new ideas.
- Be patient. It will take time for students to get accustomed to this new style of learning. It won’t work for everyone, so be patient if your students take time to acclimatise.
- Be kind to yourself. Hey, being an educator is not an easy task. Remember to be kind to yourself, and understand that not everything is within your control. From tech glitches to rowdy students, take things one at a time.
