Rethinking Online Engagement: Active Learning Beyond Screen Sharing

It’s easy to rely on slide decks and screen sharing when teaching online, but the most impactful classes go beyond passive presentation. Active learning transforms your virtual classroom into an engaging, interactive space where learners participate, create, and collaborate.

In this guide, we’ll explore why active learning is essential, share practical alternatives to screen sharing, and offer reflection prompts to assess and improve the interactivity of your classes. Let’s push beyond the basics to create dynamic, multi-modal learning experiences that keep learners excited to return.

Why Active Learning Matters

Active learning involves learners doing something—analyzing, discussing, or creating—rather than just passively receiving information.

The Benefits of Active Learning:

• Increased Engagement: Learners are more focused and involved.
• Better Retention: Active participation helps solidify new concepts.
• Critical Thinking: Encourages learners to connect ideas and problem-solve.
• Collaboration Skills: Builds teamwork and communication abilities.

Pro Tip: Aim to create opportunities for learners to interact every 5–10 minutes.

Alternatives to Screen Sharing

Breakout Rooms

Break learners into small groups for discussions, role-playing, or collaborative problem-solving.

Multimedia Tools

Incorporate videos, audio clips, or animations to bring concepts to life.

Interactive Platforms

Tools like Scratch, Padlet, or Nearpod make lessons collaborative and fun.

Collaborative Projects

Encourage learners to work together to create something tangible.

Hands-On Activities

Send learners on a scavenger hunt around their home or have them build, draw, or write something during class.

Multi-Modality is Key

Active learning thrives on multi-modal approaches—using more than one method of teaching.

Examples of Multi-Modal Learning:

• Begin with a short video introduction to a topic.
• Follow with an interactive quiz or poll to test prior knowledge.
• Guide learners through a group activity in breakout rooms.
• Wrap up with an individual reflection or project that they share with the class.

Pro Tip: Balance visual, auditory, and kinesthetic activities to engage diverse learning styles.

Reflection Prompts to Assess Interactivity

After each class, ask yourself:

1. Did I create at least two opportunities for active participation?
2. How did learners respond to interactive elements? Were they engaged or distracted?
3. Did I use more than one teaching modality? (e.g., discussion, visuals, hands-on).
4. Was my role as a facilitator balanced with allowing learners to take ownership?
5. What could I change to make the class more interactive next time?

Encourage learners to share feedback, too. Simple questions like “What did you enjoy most about today’s class?” or “What would you like to do differently next time?” can offer valuable insights.

Let’s move beyond slide decks and screen sharing! Explore how active learning strategies can transform your classes into dynamic, learner-centered experiences.