How can I engage remote students in the hybrid classroom?

Here are some strategies instructors use to engage remote students in hybrid classrooms including technology, regular check-ins, engaging content, and feedback and assessment.

With the increasing prevalence of hybrid learning environments, engaging remote students is more important than ever. Here are several strategies to help you effectively engage remote students in the hybrid classroom:

  1. Utilize Technology: Leverage technology such as video conferencing's built-in chat platforms, Breakout Rooms, and interactive collaboration software to facilitate teamwork between remote students and those in the physical classroom.

  2. Active Participation: Encourage remote students to actively participate in discussions, group activities, and presentations. Use breakout rooms and collaboration tools such as ThinkHub Cloud to facilitate group work. With ThinkHub Cloud, students can create interactive canvases on their own laptops that can be accessed anytime from any laptop and shared to the ThinkHub Room, enabling remote students to engage with the same content as their in-person peers.

  3. Regular Check-ins: Schedule regular check-ins or virtual office hours with remote students to provide support, answer questions, and ensure they are staying engaged with the course material.

  4. Provide Clear Instructions: Clearly communicate expectations for remote students, including deadlines, assignment requirements, and how they can participate in class activities.

  5. Engaging Content: Create engaging and interactive content that is suitable for both in-person and remote students. Use multimedia, real-world examples, and interactive activities to keep remote students engaged. Check out these ThinkHub Education use cases for examples of how ThinkHub's versatile tools allow instructors to create dynamic lessons that keep students engaged and connected.

  6. Encourage Collaboration: Foster a sense of community among all students, regardless of their location. Encourage collaboration, peer feedback, and group projects that include both in-person and remote students.

  7. Feedback and Assessment: Provide timely feedback on assignments and assessments to remote students, and encourage them to provide feedback on their learning experiences.

  8. Accessibility: Ensure that all course materials and activities are accessible to remote students, including those with disabilities. Use captioning, transcripts, and other accessibility features to accommodate diverse needs.

  9. Flexibility: Recognize that remote students may face unique challenges, such as different time zones or technology limitations. Be flexible and accommodating in your approach to engaging remote students.

By implementing these strategies, you can create a more inclusive and engaging hybrid learning environment that supports the success of all students, whether they are in the physical classroom or joining remotely.

Interested in learning more about how to engage students? Check out this article on exercises designed to increase active learning in the classroom.