Online Micro-teaching

The experience of online micro-teaching has been both enlightening and transformative. It provided an exclusive chance for me to dive into the world of virtual education, introducing me to new abilities, discoveries, and ideas that have expanded my teaching style. I'll discuss my experiences, the skills I learned, and how this approach prepared me to teach in a school context.

My whole experience was moulded by a mix of likes and dislikes presented via online micro-teaching. Additionally, the ability to conduct courses from the comfort of my home was a huge benefit. It allowed me to experiment with various digital tools, engage learners in new ways, and stimulate connection through virtual platforms. It felt wonderful to adjust content to diverse learning styles and preferences. However, the lack of face-to-face encounters and the difficulty in evaluating learners' emotions in real-time came out as important disadvantages. Making a personal connection with students and responding to their questions took longer. Regardless, the experience taught me the need for flexibility and creativity in creating a stimulating and successful learning environment.

The online micro-teaching experience assisted in the development of some critical abilities that have expanded my teaching portfolio. Using digital tools for involvement was one of the most useful abilities. I learnt how to design an interesting and dynamic virtual classroom that keeps students interested by using interactive polls and quizzes. Additionally, time management and planning become important. Planning lessons, coordinating screen sharing, and navigating between tools all required thorough planning and flawless execution. Furthermore, strengthening my communication abilities in virtual environments was important in efficiently presenting topics and keeping students engaged.

Reflecting on this experience, I see some elements that may be improved. To begin, providing students with clear instructions and rules for navigating the virtual area would improve the learning experience. Furthermore, allowing for individual encounters could help to overcome the constraints of online interaction and build a more personalised connection. The tools used for online teaching were important in moulding the learning experience. Platforms such as Kahoot enabled interactive quizzes and polls, which added a sense of fun and competition to the sessions. Students were able to actively participate in developing a sense of ownership over their learning. These technologies not only encouraged participation but also simulated the types of technology-enhanced situations that students could encounter in today's digital world. I also used the hand raise in Blackboard Collaborate so if the learners had questions they could raise their hands and asked their questions. I also used the chat box in Blackboard Collaborate for discussions, where I asked a question and they answered in the chat box.

The online micro-teaching experience has prepared me for future school-based teaching opportunities. It taught me adaptation, which is crucial in the ever-changing educational context. My knowledge of digital tools, good time management, and increased engagement will surely help me create relevant learning experiences for my future learners. This experience also highlighted the need for communication and empathy in bridging the virtual barrier. The ability to balance technology and personal connection will be crucial in creating a good and effective learning environment that fosters both academic growth and socio-emotional well-being.

Finally, online micro-teaching has been a journey of discovery and growth. It enabled me to learn new abilities, refine my approach, and foresee a dynamic future of education that smoothly integrates technology and good pedagogy. As I prepare to begin my career as a teacher, I carry the lessons learned and insights gained from this developing experience with me.