Airlangga Global Engagement (AGE), Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) with World University Association for Community Development (WUACD) held an international webinar, Conducting Enjoyable Virtual Classes, on Thursday, January 28, 2021. It was conducted in collaboration with Daffodil International University, Bangladesh, and presented three speakers.
UNAIR Vice Director for Academic Affairs Yuni Sari Amalia spoke on strategies for students in virtual classes. Yuni revealed that one of the main problems in e-learning is students’ low focus and attention during the class.
“Therefore, students really need hydration, variety, exercise, and breaks between virtual classes so that their attention and focus can be retained, ” explained the graduate of the University of Illinois.
Yuni also gave some examples of stretching movements and simple activities that could improve physical performance and focus while participating in virtual classes. This activity is specifically aimed at optimizing students’ physical and psychological health as they spend a lot of time in front of the screen which tends to lead to digital fatigue.
Meanwhile, Director of Students Affairs and Head, Daffodil International University Syed Mizanur Rahman enthusiastically conveyed the strategy of holding fun virtual classes, especially for children.
According to him, virtual classes for children will not be effective only if teachers deliver the lessons innovatively. “In delivering material, we must maintain interaction and use living things, materials, and performances. Delivering the material interestingly can help to attract their attention and engage them, “he added.
Deputy Director of Human Resources Development Institute, Ejaj-Ur-Rahman, shared material related to gamification. Gamification is a strategy that uses various activities and rewards to encourage greater engagement with students.
“Through gamification, teachers can design a variety of learning involving games that will encourage students’ participation to join and think together in a virtual classroom,” said the senior lecturer at Daffodil International University.
In the international webinar via Zoom Meeting, participants were invited to play together online through the Kahoot application. From the webinar attended by more than 140 participants, both teachers and instructors are expected to implement and formulate appropriate virtual classroom learning strategies.