Online Teaching Tips: 5 Ways to Improve Virtual Learning
From kindergarten to college, the future of learning is online.
Whether you’re delivering fully remote programs or supplementing traditional classes with online instruction, teaching virtually comes with its own set of challenges—and opportunities. The good news? A few intentional strategies can help you create a smoother, more impactful online learning experience for both instructors and students.
Here are five essential tips for teaching online classes more effectively:
1. Get to Know the Technology
Technology is the backbone of every online learning experience. Whether you're using a Learning Management System (LMS), video conferencing tools, or digital assessment platforms, it’s crucial to be confident and competent with the tools you rely on.
Tip: Don’t just train instructors—make sure directors, deans, administrators, and support staff are also comfortable with the tech. A well-trained team sets the stage for a strong online program that runs smoothly behind the scenes and in the (virtual) classroom.
2. Communicate Consistently
Out of sight shouldn’t mean out of mind. Online learners thrive when instructors maintain steady communication. Clear, regular touchpoints help students stay engaged, motivated, and on track.
Why it matters:
Creates space for clarification and feedback
Boosts student accountability
Helps students monitor their own progress
Reinforces presence and support in a digital environment
Email, discussion boards, announcements, and video check-ins are all great tools to keep lines of communication open.
3. Ask for Student Feedback
Want to improve your course? Go straight to the source.
Student feedback is one of the most powerful tools for refining curriculum, improving course delivery, and strengthening the student-instructor relationship. It reveals what's working and what isn’t—from the people experiencing it firsthand.
Pro tip: Use simple, scheduled surveys or feedback forms during and after the course. Even brief responses can yield big insights.
4. Engage Students in Meaningful Discussions
Student engagement is one of the biggest challenges in online teaching—but also one of the most important. Interactive learning drives better outcomes, boosts retention, and builds a stronger sense of community.
Ways to engage online learners:
Host live video sessions for Q&A or deep dives
Use discussion boards to keep conversations going
Encourage peer feedback and small group collaboration
Offer office hours or 1:1 check-ins
Students who feel seen and heard are more likely to stay motivated and succeed.
5. Make Instructions Clear and Accessible
In an online setting, unclear directions can derail even the best lesson plan. Since students may not have immediate access to ask for clarification, clarity is key.
Best practices for clarity:
Provide instructions in multiple formats (written, video, visuals)
Use consistent terminology and structure
Include rubrics, examples, and timelines
Keep navigation intuitive and content organized
When expectations are clear, students can focus on learning—not figuring out what they’re supposed to do.
Ready to Build or Improve Your Online Learning Program?
At Edlumina we’ve helped institutions and training providers of all kinds design, launch, and scale online education platforms that work. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to fine-tune your virtual classroom, we’re here to help.