As online instruction continues to evolve, more emphasis has been placed on synchronous instruction. Synchronous instruction simply means that students are engaged in learning at the same time. Typically held over live virtual video, synchronous instruction provides a high-touch option for online students, but it can be a struggle for students to engage during live virtual sessions.

This 20-Minute Mentor offers strategies to help instructors promote engagement in synchronous contexts. You’ll receive tips to help overcome this engagement challenge before class, during class, and after class.

Learning Goals

After viewing this Magna 20-Minute Mentor, participants will be able to:

• Develop a clear strategy for increasing engagement during virtual video synchronous sessions
• Create learning goals that emphasize effective synchronous pedagogy
• Learn strategies for online teaching to increase student engagement

Topics Covered

• Before class: Create learning goals and a class agenda that prepare an effective virtual learning environment
• During class: Make fruitful connections between students and the instructor to produce deeper engagement
• After class: Debrief and evaluate your success in the synchronous class to improve for future courses