Who said online teaching gets easier with time? (Spoiler: it doesn’t.) What makes the difference is strategy: knowing the hacks, tools, and tricks that help you ride out those awkward Wi-Fi freezes, distracted students, and “Can you hear me now?” moments.
Since the Covid-19 pandemic, classrooms flipped into Zoom rooms. Some teachers thrived, others struggled. But let’s be real: even the best educators have tough online teaching days. In fact, an Indian survey found that 84% of educators face challenges while teaching online.
So let’s unpack the why, the ouch, and most importantly, the fix.
Why Online Learning Took Over
Online learning (a.k.a. distance learning, e-learning, insert-buzzword-here) has broken the old school model. Students can now learn anytime, anywhere, using devices from laptops to smartphones.
Sounds convenient, right? Yes. But it also introduces big challenges:
- Spotty internet.
- Distracted students at home.
- Zero physical presence, making it harder to track progress.
- Language barriers and digital miscommunication.
- Keeping motivation alive in a virtual world.
In short: it’s not just about knowing your subject, it’s about knowing how to teach it online.
The 3 Survival Tips
Master your tools (and always have Plan B).
Know your platform inside-out. Learn the buttons before your students do. And for those inevitable “frozen face” moments? Always keep a backup plan: alternate devices, pre-shared materials, and emergency WhatsApp groups can be lifesavers.
Make it interactive (goodbye, passive lectures).
Zoom fatigue is real. Keep students engaged with polls, breakout groups, short discussions, and game-based learning. Use multimedia videos, quizzes, GIFs if you’re brave. Bonus: regular feedback keeps students awake and accountable.
Build community (yes, even through screens).
Online classes can feel lonely. Combat this with icebreakers, group projects, and discussion forums. Encourage collaboration and set ground rules for respect. A positive, supportive environment makes students feel like they belong, even if they’re a thousand miles apart.
The Final Word
Online teaching isn’t just teaching, it’s part tech support, part entertainer, part coach. But with the right strategies, you can transform difficult moments into teachable moments.
Want more hacks for mastering online teaching? Join EDU Passport, where global educators share tools, ideas, and tips for making online learning a win.
