Online Microteaching
- Hope Nettleton
- Oct 9, 2023
- 2 min read
The one thing that I dislike about online teaching is that majority of the learners have their cameras off so as a teacher, you're not able to gauge their facial expressions as to whether they are paying attention to the lesson or not, or if they're confused. However, what I do like about online teaching is that its much easier to incorporate digital tools because majority of the learners already have technology devices easily accessible and it's a short process for them to log on to any online games the teacher has prepared for the lesson.
The new skill I learned during this online lesson, was how to share my screen, browser or application. I figured out how to work both the online chatroom, and my PowerPoint presentation so that I have constant access to both and was able to change between the two applications. This new skill was easy to acquire within a few minutes of playing around with the application.
What I would do to improve my lesson is to have separated the content into more than one lesson, because what I covered in my lesson was quite content heavy with regards to terminology and it would've been easier for the learners to understand the content better and engage more if the content was split. Additionally, I would have asked more questions and maybe started a discussion to get the learners more engaged in the lesson, instead of them just passively listening to me teaching the content.
I feel as though I did choose appropriate digital tools to teach my online lesson, as PowerPoint is easy to use and Quizzez is an exciting and engaging online quiz platform that the learners use because of the competition that it puts forward. Additionally, it was easier for myself to incorporate these tools in my lesson successfully without bringing about any complications that would have taken up a lot of my teaching time.
This experience has prepared me in such a manner that should something like COVID-19 happen again, that I am prepared enough with the basic skills to complete an online lesson where the learners are able to participate and engage in.
Please see the link to Francesca Monzeglio's blog post:
https://francimonzeglio.wixsite.com/francesca-monzeglio/post/online-microteaching-log?commentId=48a9a443-f59d-4a9b-b7ed-1b7709ffaa4c
I agree with the fact that online teaching takes away the interpersonal aspect of teaching. I also gauge learners' understanding through facial expressions and physical cues. This means that we need to engage more in asking questions and making sure we get replies through the screens. I enjoyed your lesson and wish you all the best for future teaching journeys.
Francesca Monzeglio
After reading your microteaching blog about your experiences and difficulties in online teaching, and I must say it was quite insightful. Teaching online can be challenging, and it's clear you've put a lot of effort into adapting to this new format and learning how to use the different digital tools. Your reflections on engaging students and dealing with not being always able to gauge your student's facial expressions, resonated with with me. During your microteaching lesson I enjoyed your slide show and I thought your lesson was interesting, engaging, and I enjoyed the quiz at the end. Keep up the good work!
Kailey Perillo- Varsity College
I concur with the arguments you've raised. Your lesson was well-planned and enjoyable. I thought your session was great in every way and I really enjoyed the quiz. I'm looking forward to what else you have planned for your students in the future. You will do amazing in the future, wishing you everything of the best for your teaching.
-Larishka Chinasamy (Varsity college student)