2.1 Knowing how it works

A basic glossary of online teaching

I just want to teach. Does there really need to be so much jargon?

Aim

To clarify some basic types of software, key concepts, core terms and definitions to do with online teaching.

Introduction

Teaching online can mean different things, depending on the technology available to you and your learners. In this chapter we start looking at the set up of the online classroom and considerations you need to be successful. Then, in Chapter 9 Online lessons we will look at a range of ways of working online, focusing mainly on synchronous (i.e. ‘live’) video lessons and asynchronous (i.e. ‘not live’) teaching in detail. We will also look at some low technology alternatives such as the use of text messaging apps or audio-only connections.

If you’re new to online teaching, you may not be fully aware how different modes of course operate. This section is an introduction to some key terms and definitions that you’ll probably need to understand: Learning Management System (LMS); Virtual Learning Environment (VLE); synchronous lessons; asynchronous lessons; blended courses; hybrid courses; flipped classrooms; apps; video conferencing; messaging.

We also look at different roles (like administrator) and skills (such as authoring) associated with online teaching. If you already feel confident about terms like these, you can happily skip this section and just refer back to it if you hit any problems later.