10 Effective Online Teaching Methods to Boost Student Engagement
Quick Summary
- Discover effective online teaching methods such as live virtual classes, flipped classrooms, and blended learning to enhance student engagement and flexibility.
- Learn how to choose the best method based on students’ needs, available technology, and learning goals to ensure productive online education.
- Explore popular teaching tools like Google Classroom, Zoom, and Byju’s to deliver high-quality online lessons in India.
Table of Contents
While online classes have indeed become the new normal, low student engagement still remains one of the biggest challenges in the education sector today. Teachers constantly report that the majority of students seem distracted and simply uninterested during online classes. Can interesting online teaching methods help teachers overcome this problem?
While the traditional classroom approach became monotonous a long time ago, technology has introduced various online teaching methods and strategies to improve students’ experience in the classroom. Ideally, a mix of different study tools can help students feel energized and make them willing to learn more.
The teaching strategies for virtual classrooms are listed below to maximize the efficiency of online teaching and learning.
What Are Online Teaching Methods?
Online teaching methods refer to different techniques used by educators to teach students over the internet. These methods use various tools such as video conferencing, online assignments, and interactive platforms to create an engaging learning environment. Some popular online teaching methods include live virtual classes, flipped classrooms, and blended learning.
Types of Online Teaching Methods For Teachers
One could argue that conventional teaching has always been delivered in a concrete manner, with the teacher standing and reciting material that the pupil is expected to comprehend and remember. However, education is now being provided in a more appealing and consumable format because of the advancement of technology and the internet.
There are various types of online teaching methods, but we have put together a list of the best ones that can be easily integrated by teachers in their teaching strategy.
1. Presentations
A definite way to organize online teaching techniques and make them visually appealing is with presentations. Presentations allow students to learn by looking at digital forms of content in the classroom.
It is helpful not only for higher education but also for children. With the low attention spans of children, the changing slides on the screen can keep them hooked for longer. Children take a keen interest in reading, listening, and learning with presentations to teach the topic.
Benefits
- Adding facts and figures for each topic.
- Adding data as graphs, tables, pie charts, Venn diagrams, and other illustrations.
- Using video bits from YouTube for complex topics.
- Adding images to explain subjects wherever possible.
- It can be downloaded anytime.
- Suitable for revision and learning at home.
Examples
2. Online Whiteboard
Blackboards used to be a staple online teaching methods in earlier times. Whiteboards later replaced this as times changed. Online whiteboard or virtual whiteboard supplements teachers to explain concepts to students. These virtual whiteboards allow teachers to write, draw, and illustrate on the digital screen while teaching. More and more teachers are using online whiteboards to help build a better connection with their students.
Benefits
- Interactive whiteboards are internet-connected. Thus, teachers have access to a variety of online resources and tools.
- One can equip whiteboards with virtually any tool. This includes computers, microscopes, and video cameras to improve instruction. The opportunities, thus, are practically unlimited.
- Teaching through virtual whiteboards can help teachers to engage effectively that helps to increase information retention multiple times.
- Once the class is over, teachers can download the whiteboard data and share it with students as a pdf to help them with revisions.
- They can also assign the students simple brainstorming activities or homework using the same online teaching methods.
Examples
3. Live Online Classes
The online teaching technique has allowed teachers to reach students across physical boundaries in real-time. Teachers can now make their virtual classrooms available for all. They no longer have to run admissions and collect student data. Live classes have become the new normal. Many teachers had made miracles happen when students from other states and countries often viewed their live classes. Live online classes coupled with digital whiteboards or presentations are engaging and effective.
Benefits
- Students can attend these classes as demo sessions before joining the paid courses.
- In case there is a need to promote these live classes online, one can do that on various social media platforms. Their student groups are on WhatsApp to get the maximum reach for the same.
- Online teaching methods provide the aspect of flexibility and self-care.
- Students can use a learning experience platform that will tailor the curriculum.
- Students don’t have to feel rushed or restricted because they are not in competition with anyone else. Instead, they can fast-forward through or go over the information as often as they want.
Also Read :- 10 Best Online Tutoring Sites of 2025
Examples
4. Pre-recorded Video Lectures
Some students and teachers are still unable to adapt to the live classroom approach. One of the major challenges is the availability of fast internet for all the participants at the same time and devices to attend the classes. Pre-recorded lectures can help to counter these challenges.
A large number of students worldwide prefer this online teaching methods due to the flexibility and convenience that it offers. To assist students in consolidating and applying what they learned from the video, teachers may ask them to complete an activity after it. Students should be able to contact the teachers if they have any questions and give feedback on the lectures. Constructive criticism from the students helps the teaching-learning process.
Benefits
- Multiple plays for revisions or different batches for the same topic.
- Students can play the lectures later if they are unable to attend live.
- Students can learn anytime from anywhere at their convenience.
- Easier to share and play can be played even on the big screen for distant learning batches.
- Teachers can make these lectures more effective by preparing scripts in advance and editing the videos as they like.
Examples
5. Flipped Classroom
Flipped classroom method is one of the most popular online teaching methods that gained momentum during the pandemic. As the name suggests, the entire teaching process flips in this method. Students study from the resources provided to them before the lecture. The teacher then teaches with context to the study material. Contrary to the other shortened content methods, flipped classroom aims at comprehensive learning.
Benefits
- This online teaching strategy allows the learning of vast topics in capsule-sized lectures. Students can attend them in short periods.
- This technique is more effective through student engagement activities such as online quizzes, infographics, polls, questionnaires, group discussions, and debates.
- This model assists kids in studying independently and gaining a deeper understanding of subjects to catch up more quickly.
- Teachers can use their knowledge and abilities more effectively.
Examples
6. Live Chatting
This is the most underrated and effective online teaching method. Messaging for reviewing subject-related material through polls and questions is helpful. It allows students to solve their doubts quickly and easily. This offers a platform for collaboration and interaction. Such live chats often need to be with some ground rules. It’ll maintain the decorum of educational institutes and curb nuisance behaviour.
Benefits
- Such chatting platforms allow students to interact with each other.
- They help to build soft skills, textual and verbal skills.
- It provides them space the present their ideas before their fellow students.
Examples
7. Discussion Boards and Forums
Often lectures are not the only source of knowledge for students. Interaction through discussions helps students to get a clearer understanding of tricky topics. Discussion boards provide an interactive space. Also, offers a platform for students to present their views informally and engage in discussions about the same.
Benefits
- Discussion boards and forums allow students to get comfortable interacting with their fellow batch mates.
- Students can participate fully in class without experiencing the anxiety they may feel with so many eyes on them.
- These are also the best spaces to give creative liberty to students.
- Teachers can create separate discussion boards for different topics. Likewise, add topics for discussion on the same.
Examples
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8. Game-Based Learning
A teaching strategy called “game-based learning” makes use of the persuasiveness of games to specify and support learning objectives. Through instructional games with components like engagement, quick rewards, and healthy competition, a GBL environment boosts students’ motivation for learning more.
Benefits
- Boosts a child’s memory power.
- Fluency with computers & simulations.
- Quick strategic thinking & problem-solving assistance.
- Particularly helpful for kids with attention disorders.
- Encourages children to engage in healthy competition.
Examples
9. Artificial Intelligence
AI enables teachers to provide pupils with individualised responses to pertinent queries. In accordance with the problems and inquiries they encounter in course materials and online sessions, it also aids in students’ education. Students can now communicate with teachers via a more comprehensive mechanism.
Benefits
- Students can always use online AI instructors for their studies.
- A personalised approach makes students feel unique, which increases their dedication and passion for learning.
- With the help of AI-powered chatbots or AI virtual personal assistants, students may avoid feeling embarrassed when they ask for more assistance in front of their peers.
Examples
10. Mobile-Friendly Platforms
Mobile learning is the future of education for a variety of reasons, the first of which is that it is adaptable. Students today have several jobs, and office-less and remote work environments are becoming increasingly commonplace for professionals. Additionally, with mobile learning, users may perform modules or classes whenever they want, from anywhere, at any time.
It’s the ideal platform for learning on the go for a student or employee. The concept of microlearning is dividing knowledge into manageable chunks. These learning “chunks” are narrowly focused teachings that are simpler to understand, retain, and recall later.
Benefits
- Each student is in charge and may study at their own speed while concentrating on the areas they know they need to get better at or have trouble with.
- Mobile learning helps them develop skills in using analytics and reporting tools to keep track of their students.
- You can swiftly offer training without having to reprint anything and make updates and revisions at any time.
- One user-friendly platform may be used for messaging, sharing assignments, tracking grades, and even designing quizzes.
Examples
- Edmodo
- Class Dojo
- Flip
- Nearpod
A growing inclination among students is toward distance learning and online education. This is due to the opportunities it provides and the flexibility it offers. So, it becomes clear that online teaching is the direction towards which education is headed, and it would be an inexhaustible resource to prospective teachers and learners.
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Various new online teaching methods and pedagogy will keep emerging to make online learning more effective. On the whole, online teaching methods are cost-effective and helpful. They elicit interest in the student, pique curiosity to learn more, drive curiosity and perseverance in students who lack them and make knowledge easier.
How to Choose the Best Online Teaching Method
Choosing the right online teaching method depends on several factors such as the subject, students’ needs, and available resources. Here are some important considerations:
- Understand Students’ Learning Style: Some students prefer live interactions, while others may benefit from self-paced learning.
- Evaluate Available Technology: Ensure that students have access to the required devices and internet connectivity.
- Set Clear Learning Goals: Choose a method that aligns with your teaching objectives.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Teaching Methods
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Flexible learning schedule | Lack of face-to-face interaction |
| Access to a variety of resources | Technical issues may arise |
| Cost-effective | Requires self-discipline |
| Suitable for remote learning | May lead to screen fatigue |
Best Online Tools for Teaching in India
Using the right online teaching tools / online teaching platforms is essential for effective online teaching. Here are some popular platforms used in India:
- Google Classroom: Great for assignment submissions and class management.
- Zoom: Best for live virtual classes and webinars.
- Microsoft Teams: Ideal for collaboration and document sharing.
- Byju’s: Popular for interactive content and video lessons.
- Unacademy: Suitable for competitive exam preparation.
Conclusion
Online teaching methods offer numerous benefits and have transformed education in India. Whether through live classes, self-paced learning, or blended approaches, these methods provide flexibility and accessibility to learners. By choosing the right method and using effective tools, educators can ensure a productive online learning experience.
Related Read :- Online Teaching Apps
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What are some online teaching methods?
Teachers can implement these methods to teach online:
1. Graphical presentations
2. Online whiteboard
3. Using artificial intelligence
4. Flipped classroom strategy
5. Conduct live classes
6. Constructive debates and conversations in groups
7. Share recordings
Q2: What are the 5 methods of teaching?
Here are five techniques that work wonders in the classroom:
1. Student-centered discussions
2. Online education
3. Learning from experiments
4. Blended schooling
5. Participatory and interactive techniques
Q3: How to improve student engagement in online classes?
To increase student involvement in the classroom, use these effective online teaching methods:
1. Take part and be present
2. Produce engaging educational materials
3. Offer one-on-one sessions
4. Assign group projects
5. Create a discussion through online forums
6. Request and provide regular feedback.
7. Put learners to the test
Q4: What is the best teaching style for online teaching?
The best teaching style for online teaching combines synchronous and asynchronous methods. Live video sessions create engagement and real-time interaction, while self-paced materials like recorded lectures and digital resources give students flexibility. Teachers should focus on being clear, organized, and accessible while encouraging active participation through discussion boards, breakout rooms, and interactive assignments.
Q5: What are some online teaching strategies?
Effective online teaching strategies include using multimedia content, breaking lessons into shorter chunks, providing regular feedback, creating opportunities for student collaboration, and using digital tools for assessment. Teachers should establish clear communication channels, set expectations upfront, and maintain consistent virtual office hours to support students.
Q6: How to teach online method?
To teach effectively online, start by choosing the right technology platform and becoming familiar with its features. Create a structured course outline, develop engaging digital content, and establish a regular schedule. Mix live sessions with independent work, use frequent checks for understanding, and build a supportive online community through regular interaction.
Q7: What is an online learning method?
Online learning methods encompass various approaches like video lectures, interactive modules, discussion forums, virtual group projects, and self-paced assignments. Some popular methods include flipped classrooms where students review material beforehand and use class time for discussion, project-based learning, and collaborative online workshops.
Q8: What are the four modern teaching methods?
The four modern teaching methods gaining popularity are:
1. Blended learning – combining online and traditional approaches
2. Project-based learning – students learn through real-world challenges
3. Personalized learning – adapting content to individual student needs
4. Active learning – engaging students through participation and discussion
Q9: What are online teaching methods examples?
For online teaching examples, many teachers use:
1. Virtual labs for science classes
2. Digital whiteboards for math instruction
3. Breakout rooms for language practice
4. Educational games and simulations
5. Collaborative documents for group writing
6. Video demonstrations for practical skills
7. Interactive quizzes for immediate feedback
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