How to Provide Hands-On Learning in the Virtual Classroom

With the trend of virtual learning having no definitive end, instructors are learning how to utilize technology and innovation to continue to incorporate hands-on learning into their online classrooms. Classes that are built around hands-on learning are in high demand, such as science labs and externships, and these classes can be more difficult to instruct in solely virtual environments. Here, the ed-tech professionals at SchoolMart discuss how educators can still provide hands-on learning experiences for their students in virtual classrooms. 

Teachers Can Learn to Adapt to the Times

Instructors are learning to adapt to these technology-driven times in virtual environments. In addition to learning to use these new technologies on their own, teachers are finding ways to provide students with the support they need to adapt as well. By observing their students through virtual conferences, such as Zoom and WebEx, teachers can provide students with one-on-one guidance and coaching. For classes such as culinary, welding, or nursing, teachers can provide students with the tools they need to record themselves practicing certain skills and send them back to their instructors for feedback and improvement. Some instructors have been utilizing one of technology’s newest tools: the Swivl robot. This robot is able to follow the instructor around the room and will record them automatically, allowing teachers to teach and instruct hands-on skills while not having to worry about whether or not their students can see them through the videoconferencing virtual classroom. 

How to Teach Hands-On Skills in a Virtual Classroom Environment 

Technological tools such as virtual reality programs, simulation software, and video conferencing platforms have allowed teachers to instruct hands-on skills to students, even through a virtual classroom environment when students cannot be in conventional labs. Teachers are learning to “make do” with what they have to deliver CTE, or Career and Technical Education to their students. Some examples include the following:

• Car collision repair instructors have recorded videos from their garage at home and posted them on Youtube for their students to watch.
• A criminal justice instructor utilized their own backyard to create a makeshift crime scene, took photos and recorded videos to stage the scene, and posted everything online for her students to solve from home.

Learn More About Hands-On Learning From the Ed-Tech Professionals at SchoolMart

In order to keep hands-on learning, especially courses regarding CTE, teachers are finding ways to still provide beneficial learning opportunities and experiences for their students. From video tutorials to packable and portable experiment kits, instructors are doing whatever they can to keep their students engaged about hands-on learning and still prepare them for the future work environment. To learn more about providing hands-on learning experiences for students, visit our blog or visit our website to browse our products.