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Teaching D/HH Students in a Virtual Environment

In the classroom, it is common for teachers to set expectations for their students in terms of conduct. However, the transition to distance and virtual learning has introduced a new set of rules. Watch this video and keep reading for tips and resources for virtual teaching during a pandemic.

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Setting Expectations

It's even more important now to set clear expectations with your students and their parents. Just because you are not in a classroom doesn't mean that you aren't in school. Here are some ways you can set the tone for learning.

No Pajamas allowed.

Let your students know that it is not appropriate to look like you just rolled out of bed. Please encourage them to dress as they would at school.

Leave cameras on as much as possible.

There are occasions where it's okay to turn it off, but for the most part, that visual connection is the best way to keep your students engaged.

Treat an online classroom like an in-person classroom.

Minimize distractions by reiterating some standard rules. Students aren't allowed to eat during class in school, so why should it be different at home. The same goes for the use of cellphones during class time.

Attend 1:1 Meetings

Get parents involved as well – if they can't make it, record it and send it to them. It's essential to use that time to review things like student performance, life updates, and schedules. Understanding those changes can help you understand their behaviors and any concerns you might have.

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The Practical Stuff

Beyond setting expectations for your students, having a useful framework for yourself is essential too. Here are some tips on creating a working environment that helps keep you and your students engaged.

Light Yourself Well  

Lighting is essential; making sure you are well-lit can help reduce eye strain. Use a ring light or test any lamps you might have from different angles. Alternatively, natural light is always the best. Sit in front of or near a window to get that natural glow.   

Get on eye level  

Position your camera so that you are looking directly at it. Don't look around the room when you are signing. Direct eye contact is crucial and makes you appear present and engaged.   

If you're using a laptop, or a camera that's not on eye level, try finding something to prop it up on, like thick books or blocks.  

Stand Up  

Stretch, move around. Keep your energy up by staying active. Your students will take notice of this and respond accordingly.   

Avoid Digital Backgrounds  

Authenticity and vulnerability are important. Allow your students to get to know you by seeing inside your home. Digital backgrounds can be distracting and make it harder to see your signs. If you prefer to use a digital background, consider investing in a green screen, and use a solid background.   

YouTube is your friend  

Learn everything from adding captions to your content, use formulas in excel, and new words to use!   

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Connecting with Your Students  

The internet has made us more connected than ever, yet not seeing one another in person has made us feel more disconnected than ever. Here are a few ways you can address this.      

Have conversations  

Ask fun questions—Check-in with them. Ask them what they've been up to. Tell them a little bit about your life to help create an open and honest environment.  

Switch things up by teaching in different locations.  

It could be fun to have your students guess where you are teaching that day and start a discussion about your background.   

Welcome guests  

Introduce your pets, children, spouses to your class. This will help spark their inquisitive nature and keep them excited about getting to know you.   

Be a role model  

Finally, be an example of what you expect from your students.   

To encourage reading, show your students the books you're reading, or have a bookshelf behind you. Make sure your living space is clean and talk about it with them. You can even share the value of going outside or having hobbies by doing things like taking your helmet off at the beginning of class right after a ride!  

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Like these tips? Check out our Transitions to Online Learning series for more resources on navigating virtual and distance education.   

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