Learners of all ages tend to have similar complaints about online learning. One of these complaints is that online learning is impersonal. It lacks the opportunity to have fun with other learners in the classroom. This is a legitimate issue, but it’s not one that is insurmountable. In fact, it’s fairly easy to remedy with a little bit of time an effort. Read on to discover some simple (but outside the box!) options below.

Option 1 – Build time for chit chat into your lesson. Online learners often log into zoom sessions early. When they get there, they typically check their equipment and then go AWOL until the session begins. Instead of wasting this time, leave a question prompt on the screen that encourages students to start a dialogue in the chat box. Alternatively, you can break students into small discussion rooms as they arrive so that they can chat one on one in a more intimate setting. Or, reserve the first five minutes of class for this type of engagement and then segue into your lesson. This five minute buffer is also a great way to ensure that all stragglers have arrived and that you aren’t experiencing any technical issues.

Option 2 – Schedule recess. Yes, recess. This works for kids, but adult learners will find it just as useful. Recess sessions are a time for learners to have fun while learning. They should be semi structured, but require no prep and little effort on behalf of the learner. For example, during recess you could play trivia, host a show and tell, organize breakout room chit chat, view a short film on a topic related to the course. What you do isn’t really important, what is important is picking an activity that will make students smile and open up.

Option 3 – Host a digital potluck. Encourage students to bring their favorite snack to your next Zoom session. Take a poll to see what type of snack is most popular. Create a discussion board where learners can share their favorite recipes.

Option 4 – Schedule gym class. This could be as simple as hosting a stretching session for students after a long zoom session, or a meditation session during exam time. Sitting in front of a computer can be really hard on the body. Learners will thank you if you build in opportunities for them to stay healthy in body and mind.

A final note! Always, always always, read the room. You don’t want your fun activity to turn into anything arduous. Extracurriculars should typically be optional, but make them so great that no one will want to miss out.