BOWS Blitz 2023
Engagement Strategies for Large Enrolment Classes
What is it about?
This snapshot is from the 2023 Blended and Online Workshop Series (BOWS) Blitz Large Enrolment. Engagement strategies motivate learners, provide opportunities for collaborative learning, and enhance the overall student experience. In large enrolment blended and online courses, engagement strategies can be challenging if they are not intentionally planned. In this panel discussion, participants heard from large enrolment faculty and instructors as they shared their experiences with engagement strategies that successfully involve large groups of students learning in blended and online courses.
Panelists:
- Explained how engagement strategies can be successfully utilized in large classes.
- Identified engagement activities that offer multiple opportunities for learners to cultivate skills through asynchronous and synchronous interactions.
- Shared insights on purposeful engagement strategies that foster social learning, collaboration, and increased participation in large enrolment courses.
Panelists explored various methods to foster active student engagement in large enrolment classes. They emphasized the importance of establishing a supportive community atmosphere, utilizing interactive tools, and personalizing the learning experience through innovative approaches.
- Establish a sense of community before starting lectures, engage using music and interactive visuals.
- Use interactive tools like Top Hat, Slido, OBS Studio, etc. to engage students during lectures for enhanced engagement.
- Create introductory videos to set clear expectations, and to foster a connection with students.
Panelists explored diverse teaching methods, adapting to various student needs, and integrating technology. Panelists shared experiences and insights on making learning accessible and responsive to student feedback.
- Adapt teaching techniques to suit a diverse range of student preferences and needs.
- Use cost-effective and accessible technology to promote inclusive learning.
- Gather and implement student feedback to refine teaching methods.
Ensure Clarity in Instruction to Ensure Student Understanding and Engagement
The panelists shared their strategies for ensuring students understand and engage with the course material. They focused on clarity in instruction, diverse assessment methods, and ensuring content is relevant to the real-world context.
- Ensure clear and specific instructions for enhanced understanding and engagement.
- Utilize diverse assessment methods to cater to various learning styles and preferences.
- Align course material with real-world applications to enhance engagement.
Contributors: Dr. Corey Flynn, PhD and Dr. Lyliam (Lili) Jardine, EdD
Prepared by: Raisa Jivani, EdD Candidate, Lorelei Anselmo, M.Ed., Dr. Alysia C. Wright, PhD
This summary was compiled by Raisa Jivani as part of the Flanagan Foundation Initiative at the Taylor Institute for Teaching and Learning at the University of Calgary.