This document discusses online language teaching and learning. It covers synchronous (live online) methods like videoconferencing using high-end or low-end technology. Preparing for synchronous classes involves webcam setup, sound quality, presentations, and technology troubleshooting. Motivating synchronous learners requires making lessons memorable, relevant with audience interaction, varied activities, and humor. Asynchronous methods can use formal LMSs or informal social media. Preparing asynchronous sessions involves platform choice and usability. Motivating asynchronous learners requires active moderation, developing a community of practice, flexibility, and addressing intercultural considerations.

1. Successful teaching and learning
of languages online
Graham Stanley
April 2017

2. About me
graham.stanley@gmail.com
@grahamstanley
http://blog-efl.blogspot.com/

3. About you

5. Online learning and teaching
CALL / teaching with technology
online learning / e-learning / blended learning
synchronous – live, in real time
asynchronous – Martini factor
CMC / VOIP / virtual classrooms
remote teaching / videoconferencing
LMS / VLE / CMS (Moodle, Schoology, Drupal, etc.)
MOOCs / mobile learning
Informal online learning (Facebook, Twitter, etc.)
Virtual worlds, games (Second Life, Minecraft)
…and…?

6. Synchronous (live online)
teaching and learning

7. High-end video conferencing (video conferencing equipment)
• Purpose-made VC equipment and dedicated fibre-optic line
Pros / Cons / Uses
• Guaranteed connection, reliability, quality of experience
• Expensive, teaching tied to where VC equipment is
• Large class teaching, fixed timetables
Videoconferencing

8. Low-end video conferencing (VOIP, virtual classrooms, etc)
• VOIP software, domestic webcams and home-grade Internet
Pros / Cons
• Teaching and learning from anywhere,
• Expensive, teaching tied to where VC equipment is
• Small groups and one-to-one, flexible hours
Videoconferencing

9. Preparing for the synchronous
class

10. Webcam
• Light / positioning / talking heads? / body language & gestures
Sound
• Who’s going to talk? When?
• Headsets and microphones / quality / muting / feedback
Presentation
• Screenshare / upload / streaming / accessible elsewhere / video /
audio /
Technology

11. No connection /
• Rescheduling / recording / alternative platform
Partial connection
• Audio / video / presentation accessible?
Plan B

12. Motivating and engaging
learners in synchronous teaching

13. Making it memorable and relevant
• Audience / Q&A
• Talking heads? / dynamics / variation vs distraction / gestures
• Presentation : focus / clarity / images /
• Virtual 3D worlds
• Warmers / Ice-breakers / fillers
• Check your learners are there (Leroy Jenkins - WoW)
• Preparation / length? / vary tone of voice
• Pre- & post-synchronous activities
• Humour (but, don’t overdo it)
…and…?
Engaging synchronous learners

14. Asynchronous
teaching and learning

15. Formal
• MOOC
• LMS / VLE / CMS
• One-stop shop
Informal
• PLE / PLN
• Social media (Facebook group, etc)
• Small pieces loosely joined
• Virtual world / game
Asynchronous platform choice

16. Preparing asynchronous sessions

17. Platform access and use
• Platform – easy access / registration / signposting
• Martini effect – mobile?
• Return visits worthwhile
• Support if needed – responsive
• Privacy concerns
…and…?
Technology

18. Motivating and engaging learners in
asynchronous teaching

19. Making it memorable and relevant
• E-moderation – good practice
• Active and responsive (how much time?)
• Develop CoP – encourage participation
• Deadlines? / Length of course / Study load / Flexibility
• Social aspect (forum, etc)
• Group & pairwork considerations
• Time difference
• Intercultural considerations
• Netiquette / dealing with griefers
…and…?
Engaging asynchronous learners