When using video conferencing tools for online teaching sessions, it is challenging to keep the attention and focus of the participants. Most people can focus on a presentation for approx. 15 minutes. An online session may consist of various content types. A rule of thumb is to switch between the types at regular, hourly intervals for each online session. An hourly break is also necessary for both teachers and students.

Start

When starting up, the teacher presents:

the learning outcomes descriptions related to this online session
the purpose and goals for the session
the theme of the session
how the session is organized

During the online session

discuss the subject matter
discuss practical applications
assignments based on a given question / problem statement
present and explain the subject matter

End

students may ask questions and/or comment
teacher and/or students summarize the subject matter related to the purpose and goals of the session
the way forward – what, how and when
evaluating the session

After the session – for teachers

Reflect on the implementation:

what worked
what could have been done differently
what is still unclear to students
what do you need to emphasize for later sessions and assignments
what else can you share with your students (subject matter, information etc.) to support their further learning in the following sessions
how will you assess student learning of the content
when you meet your students in the next session (or between), how can you know what they have acquired by learning