In the article I read, it explains virtual classrooms as a private online blackboard that teachers can use for student learning. These classrooms are done online which means they can be accessed at any time of day but is just as busy as a regular classroom. It also includes a list of things a virtual classroom might include, and why the reader should use a virtual classroom.
Virtual classrooms are almost the same as a face-to-face meeting, with the difference being that your not physically seeing the other person and the virtual classroom can be done at any time; within the instructor’s limitations if any. In a virtual classroom, you can keep in touch with students, other teachers and even chat with parents. The teacher can still provide group or individual projects, quizzes, surveys, homework assignments, and open a new door to students with technology. They also allow you to instantly see a grade on a test because it is grading electronically, and the students can have a personal page that shows individual grades and comments done by the teacher.
In my opinion, virtual classrooms are a great alternative to the traditional classroom. Just like our education class that we are all taking online, we have the freedom to log on whenever we have time and complete assignments given to us by our professor. Virtual classrooms are great for stay at home moms, or dads, that do not have a lot of time but with the help of this technology they can still do their routine duties at home and have the luxury of furthering their career. It is also good for college students that are already worn out from having classes in person, driving back and forth, working and just getting used to being on their own.
I think this technology is a really good idea but I’m not sure if it will help me. I’m going to be teaching elementary students and virtual classrooms seem like a big responsibility for a younger child. I need to do some research into exactly what grade or age is appropriate for this technology. Also, maybe there is an alternative to it being solely a virtual classroom. For example, the students would still meet in a classroom but have their grades posted on a web page so that they can review them at anytime and their parents can stay up to date with their grades so that they know where their child stands instead of waiting for a report card when it is almost too late to make changes. Overall, it seems like a great thing!
http://education.qld.gov.au/learningplace/onlinelearning/virtual-classroom.html
1 comment:
I agree with the point you made about parent and teachers being able to chat through a virtual classroom. That way each will be able to ask questions and address any problems that they may have. Not many parents can take time off of work to have a parent-teacher conference. It also gives them the opportunity to raise questions as they come about instead of letting things build. I also agree with your point of surveys. By completing them through this method they "can" remain anonymous which can be helpful. Also allowing students to personalize their page can help them take ownership in their class and their education. Excellent Job!!
-Jennifer Z.
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