Teachers, what are the challenges you encounter when it comes to keeping your online class interactive? A sleepy student, perhaps? Maybe your student just came home after a long day at school and doesn’t have much energy for the class. Or maybe your student gets easily distracted by the things he sees or hears while you’re talking to him. Others might stay still in front of the screen – present but unresponsive or simply uninterested in participating. While these situations may not be true for all learners, they are some of the issues teachers have to deal with from time to time when handling online classes.

So, how do we keep our students attentive and enthusiastic in front of their tablet or computer screen throughout the entire duration of the class? These tips might just help.

BUILD CONNECTION. It is essential that teachers show genuine interest in their students’ lives, especially in their studies. Take time to ask how they are and engage in small talks. A simple “How’s your day?” or “What did you do today?” can go a long way. Though some students may only meet you a few times, how you deal with them will leave a lasting impact.

SET GOALS AND EXPECTATIONS. Let your students know where you’re headed with your class, and make it clear. This gives your lessons direction and purpose. Teachers must also ensure that the goals are aligned with the students’ capacity. Your goals and expectations will serve as your GPS on the journey of learning.

MAINTAIN A LIVELY ATMOSPHERE. What you give is what you get. Remember, the teacher’s energy is contagious. If the teacher’s voice sounds monotonous, it can create a negative impression on the learner. What you want to avoid is giving your students low spirits. Try raising your voice pitch a little and keep that smile on your face. You can also encourage your student to stretch or move a bit if they’ve been sitting in front of the screen for a while. When the teacher shows excitement about the class, the student will feel excited, too.

KEEP YOUR STUDENTS INVOLVED.  A student’s learning doesn’t come only from what the teacher says. Incorporate activities that encourage them to participate, not just listen. Prepare games, eye-catching visuals, videos, and quizzes. You can ask your student to stand up, move, draw, or find things around them. Use icebreakers when you notice your student getting sleepy. Don’t limit your class to just listening, speaking, and reading simply because it’s online. It’s best to encourage students to use all their senses. As Barbara Oakley, an American professor of engineering and author, said, “Learning is most effective when using multiple senses.”

CONNECT YOUR LESSONS TO REAL-LIFE SITUATIONS. Students can gain a deeper understanding when lessons are connected to their personal experiences, interests, and dreams. There’s also a better chance for retention because they can relate the lessons to something familiar. This approach makes students more interested in the topic since it allows them to become part of the learning process. Lastly, doing so encourages them to participate actively, as the examples become more personal and meaningful.

ACKNOWLEDGE THEIR EFFORTS. Recognize your students when they give correct answers, and offer words of encouragement to keep them engaged and motivated. Never embarrass a student for making mistakes or struggling to understand a lesson. Instead, guide them with constructive feedback that helps them improve. Boost their confidence by appreciating not only their correct answers but also their willingness to try. Remember, be the supportive fairy godmother in their learning journey, not the toxic villain.

BE PATIENT AND UNDERSTANDING. You were also a student once, and you know that there are times when lessons aren’t easy to grasp right away. Your students go through the same thing. Don’t pressure them or become another source of stress. Doing so will only tire them out and make them lose motivation. Online classes can be just as challenging as face-to-face ones. Be there to help your students when they’re struggling. Guide them patiently, encourage them positively, but avoid causing them more pressure — school itself can already be stressful enough.

A HAPPY GOODBYE. Before ending the class, take a moment to summarize everything that was discussed and appreciate your students for their efforts. Let them feel your excitement for the next session. Make sure every “goodbye” leaves them looking forward to the next “see you again.”

Teaching online isn’t always filled with sunny days. Teachers need to be patient, encouraging, and creative. Overcoming challenges in class requires not only a brilliant mind but also a caring heart.