Tips from an Online Teacher


I’ve instructed online for several years now and due to current state of emergency for a growing number of cities, I’d advise parents begin to set up an environment for their student to succeed. Here are a couple of tips from Colonel Candid on how to get the most out of this online transitional experience.
1.      Connectivity is key. Ensure that online classes have the right passwords ahead of the live class. Work to test your connectivity. If this is new to you watch a YouTube video on the type of platform used by the school. There are plenty of tips on how to get the best out of whatever platform is chosen by your student or your own school.
2.      Remember this is a real class. The teachers and other students exist, even though you cannot see them. Additionally, the classroom, your room/living area, is full of new distractions. Remain disciplined and dedicated to setting strict study time. Show up and treat your online class the same way you would a face-to-face class.
3.      Accountability is key. Remember that you allot time at school for studying, do the same for an online class. Set up a calendar reminder with times set aside for studying, daily and weekly assignments. Ensure an alarm goes off to remind you of when things are due. If this is a problem, email, text, or call a friend /other parent to remind you of assignments or tests. Working together will help hold your student and yourself accountable.
4.      Set aside space. More so now than ever, you’ll need a study space. Because gathering in large areas are problematic the library isn’t your best bet. If possible, stay home and use your network setting up shop on a kitchen table. There are also lots of corner booths in coffee shops but you’ve got to experiment to see what works best for you. Just ensure that you’re prepared with the syllabus, books, assignments, and have a printer (with paper) at the ready for your student.
5.      Tune Out Others. Use headphones for lectures and discussions and try to find a way to turn off your student’s phone. Anything and everything will be a distraction, minimize temptation. Try a website blocker to block tempting websites like Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. This is not the time to work on your branding or content, it’s a time for study.
6.      Be present and active. Chart out how much work your student has done in the class. Contact the teacher to see if everything is okay and if they need assistance. They’re going through this emergency too.  Encourage your student to ask a question in each class. 
7.      Ask for help. This isn’t a time to be bashful. I’ve written and had people reach out on Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook in areas where I’m not strong. My students deserve the best and I work to provide that for them. Your students also deserve this, work to proactively provide it for them. Study groups, virtually, also work with some supervision by an adult. 
Colonel Candid recommends you use this time to expand your understanding of education. Online education is different and you’re about to explore a new way of learning. Make lemonade from the basket of lemons you were just given and help your student find their greatness.
Location: Washington, DC, USA

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