The unpredictability of COVID-19 has undoubtedly drawn on the creativity and adaptability of the Whittier College staff, students, and faculty alike.
While faculty and staff are focused on fulfilling the college's commitment to an outstanding education, students may find themselves in a variety of alternative teaching methods. The most common is live Zoom sessions, in which the teacher lectures on Zoom, mimicking the normal classroom setting. How can our professors engage with their students in a meaningful and nuanced way, and what can students do to help build community in a remote-learning environment?
Professors have their own role in building community. Throughout my years in school I have noticed that, many professors enjoy walking up and down the aisles of classrooms, monitoring and prompting their students to be actively engaged in class. Obviously, this can- not be realistically achieved through Zoom, so what alternative methods can teachers use?
A unique way of engaging students through the screen and making sure they are paying attention is ‘cold calling’. Many professors employ this method in a traditional classroom setting, but over Zoom it can be especially useful. Professors simply randomly call on a student to read aloud or solve a problem. This method ensures student participation and that all voices are heard and represented.
Additionally, students should be encouraged to reach out to the peers in their class either via email or any alternative communication method. Once you reach out to your classmates, you can perhaps organize a time for a Zoom study session,to discuss that weeks assignments and projects.
I recognize that reaching out to people may feel intimidating and strange at first, but once you overcome these feelings, usually you are met with a beautiful opportunity to meet new people! Some of my fondest memories in my classes from last year's shift to online learning are from breakout sessions and study groups, so do not be afraid to reach out and make new friends in your classes.
Finally, participating in class discussions is your key to community building within a virtual classroom. Although this sentiment has probably been echoed by your professors before, it is a timeless tactic. Even if you are not necessarily a talkative person, challenge yourself to speak in discussion or ask questions in your classes. The professors will take this as a sign of engagement and enthusiasm and in turn it will make them more likely to teach with that same enthusiasm! You can also voice your opinions and get feedback from the professor and your classmates which will ultimately only make you better!
Now that you have the tools to successfully build community in the online learning environment, I challenge you to employ at least one of these strategies in your next Zoom class. You never know, maybe by the time we are on campus you will have a new best friend!
