3 technologies needed for remote learning

Below are three remote learning technologies every virtual teacher should have–and examples of why these simple tools can go a long way in a virtual classroom.

1. Webcams

Yes, many laptops and computers come with built-in cameras, but webcams can be helpful in additional ways. When teachers have external cameras, it allows them to place it wherever they like, thus making their teaching space more flexible. In addition to flexibility, high-quality audio and video helps teachers establish a better human connection with students because they don’t have to worry about lagging sound, pixelated video, or any other technical mishaps. Finding ways to create human connection in a virtual classroom is essential because it helps teachers increase participation from students.

2. Document cameras

While teaching remotely, having a document camera makes it easier for teachers to share content with students. With a document camera and computer, teachers can share artifacts and close-ups of images with students who are learning remotely. When they’re done sharing, they can use the document camera to capture things they are doing on a whiteboard and share that with students.

Additionally, with a document camera, teachers can record lessons in advance or capture live sessions. These videos provide additional resources for students who can review the lesson out of school time in order to fully understand the material.

3. High-speed internet

One big takeaway from remote learning for the past 15 months is the need for high-speed internet. At the start of the pandemic, schools found creative ways to connect students and families by delivering hot spots to homes or repurposing school buses with Wi-Fi and driving them to communities to provide Wi-Fi access. These unique initiatives were great solutions to get everyone connected for the short term, but now as full-time virtual options continue to grow, it’ll be essential for remote teachers to have permanent solutions. Districts can partner with local internet providers to ensure their remote teachers are wired with high-speed internet and that virtual students have access to high-speed internet too.

Virtual learning is here to stay

Although the immediate switch to virtual learning was hectic and overwhelming for schools, teachers, and students, virtual learning had a positive impact on many as well. There will always be teachers who prefer an online teaching option and students who thrive with online learning.

Virtual school options will continue to increase now that more educators have been exposed to this form of teaching. As the role of virtual learning grows in education, it is important to continue to provide teachers, as well as students, with the resources they will need to succeed.