Six Strategies for Transitioning to a Web-Enhanced Classroom

Web-enhanced instruction is here to stay — but many teachers have yet to develop the online dimension of their regular classroom instruction, for good reason. Questions of where to begin and which tools to use, anxiety surrounding social media, and perceptions about limited access to the Internet for K–12 students all serve as hindrances to integrating online components in the classroom.

Nevertheless, enterprising teachers see web-enhanced learning as an emerging field and recognize that various obstacles are sure to be overcome in time. The World Bank estimates that 84 percent of Americans have access to the Internet, a rate which has increased nearly 5 percent per year since 2011. While there may be ups and downs across the next decade, the rate of Internet access is sure to increase, along with the expectation that learning will be supported with a variety of web-based resources.

Leaping into the world of e-learning can be an intimidating venture. Fortunately, educators can look to a growing base of research literature for guidance. If you are an educator looking for a place to begin, consider these six principles of effective web-enhanced teaching and learning:

1. Preassess students to discover which devices and methods they use for accessing the Internet. While some students may use desktop computers and traditional networking, many more are sure to use mobile phones with cellular service. Devices and methods matter for accessing content. For example, lengthy instructional videos may be more appropriate for desktop or laptop computer viewing, while static webpages are more convenient for mobile devices.
2. Design content using tools that improve access. One of the advantages of e-learning is convenience and flexibility. However, if students need to download large files or install plugins and add-ons to access information, then the advantage is lost. Using social media platforms such as YouTube or Tumblr eliminates the need for installing proprietary software while simultaneously improving accessibility.
3. Organize instruction around familiar practice. Similar to traditional approaches, web-enhanced learning is best when course material is organized around clear learning objectives, and assessed through multiple measures. Also helpful: frameworks for organizing activity, such as preview of upcoming material, critical input of new information, or review of previous content.
4. Facilitate different types of interactions. Most educators recognize that students mediate their own learning through interactions that extend well beyond student-to-teacher. While the quality of teacher interactions matter tremendously, students learn by networking with one another and the material. Web-enhanced classrooms broaden opportunities for students to interact through reading, listening, and writing using Internet-based tools.
5. Create a sense of community. Whether face-to-face or online, students benefit when teachers promote social connections. Two techniques teachers can use to improve a sense of community are individualized feedback and sharing about themselves using a short biography.
6. Show enthusiasm for web-enhanced learning. Teachers influence student receptivity to online learning by their attitudes. Teachers who are enthusiastic about e-learning promote enthusiasm among their students and create new possibilities for teaching and learning.