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Virtual Classroom Teaching and Learning Tips (Ultra)

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A virtual classroom is an online learning environment that allows for live interaction between the instructor and students, regardless of location, through a video conferencing system. The university's video conferencing system, Zoom, can be used to host:

  • virtual lectures for large classes where students are mostly passive learners
  • interactive tutorials (with approx. 35 participants) where students are active learners
  • individual consultations where a student can meet with the instructor one-on-one

Zoom has a range of functionality to help facilitate an interactive and engaging virtual learning environment. Zoom allows you to:

  • share your screen or specific applications (i.e. a presentation through PowerPoint)
  • annotate on top of your shared screen or using a shared virtual whiteboard
  • view other participants' screens (subject to settings)
  • conduct polls to gage prior knowledge or opinions on a particular topic
  • encourage student feedback through reactions
  • communicate with participants through the in-meeting chat
  • facilitate group work with breakout rooms

The following guide includes a range of tips to support staff in facilitating a virtual classroom environment:

  1. Preparing for a Virtual Classroom
  2. Pre-Session
  3. Introductory Session
  4. During the Session
  1. Post-Session
  2. Tips for Virtual Consultations
  3. Tips for Virtual Tutorials and Seminars
  4. Example Virtual Classroom Plan

1. Preparing for a Virtual Classroom

  • It is recommended you purchase a headset, such as the Logitech USB Headset Black H340, to ensure high quality audio. 
    • If your computer doesn't have a built in webcam, consider purchasing a mountable webcam, such as the Microsoft LifeCam Webcam HD-3000. 
    • The maximum number of participants that can join a Zoom meeting at any one time is 300. If you wish to host a Zoom meeting with more than 300 participants, please submit an IT request to have the limit increased to 1000.
    • Optionally, purchase a mini-document projector, such as the HoverCam Mini, if you require handwritten demonstrations, or alternatively use the built-in whiteboard feature. Refer to the Share a Whiteboard guide by Zoom.