Students’ active participation in online learning environments is a critical factor in achieving positive learning outcomes, especially in the context of distance or hybrid learning environments. However, both teachers and students may find it difficult to create and maintain a high level of engagement due to factors like a lack of social interaction, technical difficulties, and distractions. In this article, we will take a look at some of the most effective strategies for promoting student participation in online courses, based on both theory and practice.
Opportunities for international online delivery of ELICOS courses are explored in depth in the recently published “Student Engagement for Online Delivery Guidelines” report. The Student Engagement for Online Delivery Guidelines report details extensive research conducted by English Australia and Bonard, funded by Study NSW. It outlines key findings into the current Ed-Tech environment, student preferences in online learning, challenges and solutions.
Among the factors contributing to the “remarkable recovery” (Brett Blacker, CEO of English Australia) of the ELICOS sector are the increased availability of online courses and the increased comfort that students have with learning in a digital environment. This is the perfect landscape to consider new opportunities for innovative course delivery options.
It suggests that “stakeholders create and develop portfolios comprising short micro-credentialing courses” (Business English, Communication English, and English for specific professions), fully online programs (aimed at the K-12 market and professionals), and bridging courses to on-shore (face-to-face residential) programs or pathway courses. According to the report, the industry needs to:
- Continually improve an educational technology (Ed-Tech) portfolio and related student services
- Create an engaging setting for Ed-Tech innovation by bringing together the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to work together on this front.
- Roll out promotional and partnership-building initiatives in high-priority nations.
So what does this mean in practice?
Using Ed-Tech, ELICOS courses can be improved by incorporating real-world, industry-specific tasks and assessments and creating deep links to Australia’s economy, society, and environment.
The ideal course structure would be three 45-minute classes a day. In discussions and surveys, students consistently expressed a desire for more opportunities to engage with one another and the material. These are important messages when considering course design.
In addition, the report emphasizes the significance of teachers making and effort to support students through the ed-tech and support them in understanding the courseware by using online tools.
What are some of the best practices for online student engagement?
Define clear goals and expectations
An important first step in encouraging active participation from distance learners is to establish and share unambiguous learning objectives. That way, they will know what to expect from you in terms of class participation, assignment due dates, and grade distribution. Learners can be directed and given a structured path to follow with the help of rubrics, learning outcomes, and course outlines.
Use a variety of activities and tools
Engaging students in online courses can be facilitated in part by providing them with a range of options to suit their individual interests, learning styles, and requirements. Live sessions, recorded lectures, discussion forums, quizzes, podcasts, and blogs are all examples of asynchronous and synchronous methods that can be used to build a varied and engaging educational setting. Learners can be encouraged to engage with you and one another through the use of polls, surveys, breakout rooms, and wikis, among other interactive and collaborative tools.
Provide frequent and meaningful feedback
Providing your online students with regular feedback is crucial if you want them to stay interested in and actively participate in their learning. Therefore, you should provide frequent and meaningful feedback to your learners, both individually and collectively, using various channels and formats. For example, you can use email, chat, video, or audio to give your learners personalized and constructive feedback, or use peer review, self-assessment, or badges to enable your learners to give and receive feedback from each other and themselves.
Build a sense of community and belonging
Students’ involvement in an online course is reliant on their feeling of acceptance and inclusion by the other students and the instructor. This can help them combat any feelings of alienation, loneliness, or frustration that may arise from studying independently online. You can help your students feel more connected to the classroom and to one another by providing them with opportunities to get to know each other and you, to share their own experiences and perspectives, and to encourage and inspire one another. Group projects, case studies, and debates can be used to encourage cooperation and conversation, while icebreakers and introductions can help people feel more comfortable interacting with one another.
Motivate and empower your learners
Last but not least, if you want your online students to be engaged, you need to inspire and give them the tools to become independent learners. This means that you should craft your course in a way that gives students agency over their learning, encourages them to delve into topics that truly fascinate them, and presents them with opportunities to stretch and develop. Using techniques like gamification, storytelling, or scenario-based learning can make your course more engaging, while self-paced, project-based, and inquiry-based learning give students more control over their learning.
How can Educli help?
- Comprehensive Learning Platform: Educli offers ELICOS colleges a robust, all-in-one learning platform designed to meet the specific needs of English language learners. The platform provides a user-friendly interface, facilitating smooth navigation for both students and instructors. Through this platform, ELICOS colleges can deliver engaging lessons, interactive assignments, and assessments online.
- Expertise in ELICOS: Educli understands the unique challenges faced by ELICOS colleges. With experienced educators and instructional designers on their team, they are well-equipped to tailor their platform and services to the requirements of English language education. Their expertise allows for the creation of course materials that are effective, engaging, and culturally sensitive.
- Online Course Creation and Management: Educli aids ELICOS colleges in creating and managing online courses and resources. They provide colleges with the tools and knowledge needed to design a curriculum that adheres to ELICOS standards, ensures learner engagement, and measures progress effectively. This includes assistance in adapting in-person courses to the online environment and designing new courses from scratch.
- Quality Assurance: Maintaining high educational standards is paramount in ELICOS programs. Educli’s quality assurance measures help colleges ensure that online courses meet accreditation and compliance requirements. This fosters trust among students and institutions alike.
- Data-Driven Insights: Educli’s platform provides analytics that ELICOS colleges can use to track student progress and identify areas for improvement. This data-driven approach enables instructors to provide targeted support, ultimately enhancing the learning experience.
- Integration with third party meeting software: BigBlueButton, Zoom and Google Meet
Transforming ELICOS Education
The shift to online education is not without its challenges. ELICOS colleges need to navigate issues related to course delivery, engagement, assessment, and technological integration. Educli offers a comprehensive solution that addresses these challenges while fostering an environment of effective and engaging online English language instruction.
By utilising Educli’s learning platform and expertise, ELICOS colleges can ensure that their students receive high-quality English language instruction regardless of physical location. The platform facilitates student engagement through interactive content, synchronous and asynchronous learning opportunities, and collaborative tools.
Furthermore, Educli’s ability to create and manage online courses and resources ensures that ELICOS colleges can stay competitive and relevant in the ever-changing educational landscape. Their expertise in this domain guarantees that courses are not only effective but also culturally sensitive, addressing the unique needs of international students.
In conclusion, Educli provides ELICOS colleges with the tools, expertise, and knowledge necessary to excel in online course delivery. This comprehensive approach empowers institutions to adapt to the changing educational landscape and continue offering high-quality English language instruction to students from around the world. As the digital era continues to reshape education, Educli stands as a valuable partner in the journey of ELICOS colleges towards online excellence.
Get in touch with us today for details.
