Online teaching is more than just delivering lessons; It’s about creating meaningful connections with students to keep them engaged and motivated. However, while some strategies help build rapport, certain habits can make students feel disconnected or unmotivated.
In this final part of our blog series on connecting with students, we’ll dive into new techniques to enhance your online teaching and explore common mistakes to avoid. Whether you’re teaching one-on-one or managing a group, these tips will help you create a positive and interactive learning environment
The Do’s: Proven Strategies to Build Stronger Connections
1. Create a Virtual Classroom Culture
Just because you’re teaching online doesn’t mean classroom culture disappears! Establishing rituals and routines helps students feel a sense of belonging.
✅ Set clear norms: Use phrases like, “In our class, we always…” to reinforce positive behaviors. ✅ Incorporate traditions: Start each lesson with a fun fact, a “word of the day,” or a quick icebreaker. ✅ Establish Routines: Maintaining routines will make students feel secure in their learning environment.
A well-defined classroom culture makes students more engaged and excited to participate.
2. Leverage "Non-Traditional" Communication Methods
Sometimes, typing and emojis can be just as expressive as speaking!
✅ Use polls and reactions: Quick emoji responses (“thumbs up/down”) keep students engaged. ✅ Incorporate silent participation: Let students vote on answers or the next course of action by holding up their fingers, hand, or typing numbers in the chat. ✅ Create a class signal: A hand gesture (like drawing a checkmark in the air to indicate comprehension) can build community and increase nonverbal participation.
Not every student wants to speak up, so multiple engagement options help everyone feel included.
3. Be More Than a Teaching Robot
Students connect more when they see your human side.
✅ Share small, relatable details – “I tried a new food yesterday! Have you ever had ___?” ✅ Use humor – A well-placed joke or funny example can make lessons feel more comfortable. ✅ Be flexible with responses – If a student shares something exciting, pause for a moment to acknowledge it.
When students see you as approachable and relatable, they’ll be more eager to interact.
The Don’ts: What to Avoid in Online Teaching
1. Not All Students Learn the Same Way
Some students learn best through visuals, while others prefer discussions. Relying on a single teaching style can lead to disengagement.
❌ Avoid: Talking for long periods without checking for understanding. ✅ Instead: Mix it up! Use visuals, group discussions, and hands-on activities to keep lessons dynamic.
2. Be Careful Not to Overwhelm Students by Overloading
Online lessons require more processing time than in-person classes. Rushing through material can cause students to mentally check out.
❌ Avoid: Rapid-fire questions without pausing. ✅ Instead: Use “wait time” (3-5 seconds of silence) to let students think before answering.
This helps all students process and participate comfortably.
3. Watch for "Micro-Disengagement" Signs
Students might not say they’re confused, but subtle cues—like looking away, muting themselves, or not responding—signal disengagement.
❌ Avoid: Moving on without checking in. ✅ Instead: Say, “(Student name), does that make sense? Could you please help me with this problem?”
Catching early signs of disengagement keeps students from zoning out completely.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, connection fuels participation. By creating a positive, interactive learning environment, students feel more comfortable, confident, and excited to engage.
LingoAce offers qualified teachers smooth onboarding for an online ESL job. With tools and resources tailored to TESOL/TEFL-certified teachers, you’ll have everything you need to teach English remotely to children and thrive in this exciting career!
