An Overview of Common Distance Learning Challenges and Solutions

Keeping virtual classroom lessons short helps students stay focused. The use of polls and chat features also enhances online learning sessions. Students should also be asked questions to ensure they understand the concepts that are taught to them.

FREMONT, CA: Teachers and parents are helping their students navigate another school year of distance learning. With 60 percent of parents indicating that they would consider remaining with online school even after the pandemic, this new model shows no sign of slowing down. With the right game plan, online distance learning can be successful despite its challenges.

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Some of the notable challenges of online distance learning, along with its solutions, are described below:

The first challenge is: Distance learning doesn't translate easily to existing lesson plans.

The solution is: Translation of existing lesson plans is one of the top homeschooling problems and solutions for success. Despite having lesson plans designed for in-person learning, experienced teachers may not know how to teach them online. Distance learning protocols and assignments can be adapted for in-person learning by mixing live lesson sessions, active learning, and other assignments.

There is no need to spend the entire school day on video calls or live lesson sessions. It is important to consider breaking students up into smaller groups for a project or having them work before a live lesson. By asking questions, it can be ensured that they understand the concepts presented. Finding new, exciting online learning solutions and updating the lesson plan to make the most of distance learning is suggested.

The second challenge is: Teaching online and getting to know students.

The solution is: Teachers often ask students how to build a class community without meeting in person. Distance learning promotes a sense of belonging by pronouncing a student's name correctly and learning about their interests. Students feel more comfortable engaging in online class discussions when teachers use virtual icebreaker activities at the beginning of every class. As a creative solution for distance education, some are creating custom avatars, like Bitmoji, for the entire class, adding a fun visual element and allowing students to showcase their personalities.

The third challenge is: There are some students who lose interest quickly.

The solution is: Screen time is one of the biggest challenges of online distance learning. It is, therefore, essential to set realistic expectations for how long online lessons should last. Shorter lessons in virtual classrooms help students stay focused and allow them to take breaks when they need them. During live lesson sessions, teachers can encourage participation by using polls, chat features, a virtual field trip to the moon, or even turning lessons into games by awarding participation points. Participation in a lecture can be made fun and engaging by gamifying it.