The education sector is a very exciting place to be right now. There are so many effective digital tools that can be used in the classroom. These tools can help to:
- Improve results
- Increase engagement
- Encourage new and repeat enrolments
- Remove geographical barriers
- Reduce teacher marking and preparation time
- Open communication channels
- Develop community
- Improve the overall experience for both students and teachers
One of these key tools is the virtual blackboard. This is a very beneficial element of eLearning platforms such as a learning management system (LMS). It can be used to great effect within both online courses and blended learning programmes.
What is a virtual blackboard?
A virtual blackboard is an educational management tool and virtual learning environment. It is designed to act as a virtual learning space for students to view resources, share work, communicate with each other and access support from their teachers.
The CAE Voluxion eLearning platforms offer virtual blackboard technology. This is an aspect of a learning management system (LMS) that can be hugely beneficial for community building and general student engagement.
How can you use a virtual blackboard as part of a blended learning programme?
One of the best things about eLearning platforms such as learning management systems (LMS) or learning content management systems (LCMS) is that they are incredibly versatile.
They can be used is many different ways, both inside the classroom and outside of it. If you’re looking for inspiration for how to showcase your virtual blackboard to your students in a new way, take a look at the eight suggestions below.
1. Record lectures to use flipped classroom methodology
Classroom time is precious. Many learning facilitators find that it is most effective to use time spent in the classroom to work collaboratively on projects and in discussion rather than for the teacher to stand at the front of the room and lecture. This is called the flipped classroom theory.
Instead, teachers can use a learning management system (LMS) to record lecture material in video format so that students can watch it in their own time, before they come into class.
2. Offer students one on one tutoring outside of usual class times
It’s not always possible to spend as much time with students one on one in the classroom as would be ideal. A virtual blackboard can allow teachers to provide virtual office hours and ‘meet’ with students away from the classroom.
3. Facilitate group collaboration on homework projects
Group homework projects can be a great way to facilitate learning. Traditionally these types of projects have been problematic for students as they have had to arrange physical meet ups outside of class time. A learning management system (LMS) makes this far easier, as students can contribute virtually at a time that best suits them.
4. Host guests virtually
Visiting experts can offer a great deal of value to the classroom, but many educational organisations can’t afford to invite people in very often. eLearning platforms make this far easier, as guests can join the classroom digitally via a virtual blackboard.
5. Run additional revision sessions
The run up to exams and assessments can be stressful for students and teachers. A learning management system (LMS) allows teachers within a blended learning programme to offer additional revision sessions online.
6. Share video and audio files during class
Video and audio files can be a great way to add value and interest to the classroom. This is a great example of how teachers can incorporate digital blended learning practices into a more traditional classroom set up. A learning management system (LMS) can easily host and collate these resources ready to be played.
7. Host lecture hand outs and homework worksheets
eLearning platforms can help educational organisations reduce their printing costs and environmental impact by allowing them to share handouts and worksheets digitally.
8. Allow students to review class materials and resources in their own time
One of the best things about eLearning platforms is that they give students a lot more ownership over their education. Students who are able to access eLearning platforms such as a learning management system (LMS) can revisit class materials and resources in their own time as often as they need to.
Want to learn more about how to use a virtual blackboard with a learning management system (LMS)?
If you think your blended learning programme could benefit from the features of eLearning platforms such as a virtual blackboard, please get in touch.
We offer a free consultation for educational organisations such as schools, colleges, universities, language schools and training centres. We also work with corporations to improve the professional training they offer their employees.