Techniques That Will Keep Learners Interested In Virtual Learning

Techniques That Will Keep Learners Interested In Virtual LearningVirtual learning continues to grow as more students take online courses. In fact, statistics show that the growth of elearning for the past 13 years has been consistent. With that trend, it is not farfetched to assume that this growth will continue in the next few years – even decades! After all, the advancements in technology will guarantee that this method of learning will keep on improving. That will keep elearning interesting enough for students to want to try it out.

Of course, getting them to want to learn online is one thing. How do you keep them interested in the lesson long enough to finish it? In a traditional classroom, the students do not have a choice but to listen and participate. In a virtual classroom, the same may be more challenging. You need to exert extra effort so the students will not zone out and miss out on what they need to learn.

Fortunately, there are certain techniques that will ensure that virtual learning will be maximized. It is not even about having a short attention span. There is an article that revealed how the decreasing attention span is influenced by the task that they are doing. It is not really because of our digital activities. With that mindset, we know that we can keep learners interested in the lesson if we practice the right techniques in the online course. So what exactly are these techniques?

Keep it short and concise

There are two ways to apply this. First of all, you can keep the whole course short. Cut up the lessons and give them in installments. This will not only keep the learners from feeling too bored. It will also ensure that they will not have problems with cognitive overload. The other way that this can be applied is by using a few words only. Be precise in your use of words. Rely on images, graphics, tables, and other visual materials to get the whole concept across.

Use stories and relatable examples

If you make it relevant enough, you will surely get the attention of the online learners. They already have knowledge of these stories and examples. The familiarity will make the lesson seem easier to understand. And it will surely be easier for them to remember.

Place assessments at regular intervals

This refers to quizzes or questions that will help the learners ponder on what they just learned. These “breaks” will help them reflect and will give the lesson variety. It will not just be all talk, reading, or watching. This will also keep them focused and their brain active.

Keep things fun

This applies to both the activities and the way the lesson is delivered. Try to inject some jokes or even a humorous story or example to liven up the lesson. You can also make the activities fun for everyone. Instead of using a traditional quiz during the assessment, use games. It will make the learners feel competitive and challenged. You can also use this to make them work with other online learners.

As you can see, these techniques can easily be applied in virtual learning. Use them to ensure that the learners will be engaged in the lesson from start to finish.

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