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Teaching online is challenging, especially in large synchronous courses with more than 100 students. The sheer number of students makes using technology such as digital escape rooms or business simulators nearly impossible. But these tools offer tremendous potential for fostering interaction, active learning and collaboration among students.

Drawing from my experience managing large synchronous online courses, I’m sharing actionable recommendations for planning and running such technology-based activities. These strategies aim to address common technical and pedagogical challenges, ensuring a seamless and impactful learning experience.

Pre-session preparation

Step 1: Identify a suitable topic

Choose a course topic that naturally integrates technological tools such as digital escape rooms, simulators or virtual reality spaces. For instance, a business simulator can effectively illustrate concepts such as supply chain management, strategic decision-making, foreign direct investment or profitability analysis. Ensure the activity closely aligns with the session’s learning objectives and adds meaningful value to the overall learning experience.

Step 2: Design the activity

Carefully develop the activity while considering the digital environment students will use. For instance, when using a digital escape room, create puzzles that require critical thinking and collaboration to solve, such as relevant graphs that need interpreting or equations that need solving. Assess the resources available to students, such as internet access, devices and software compatibility, to ensure equitable participation for all.

Step 3: Prepare the technology

Dedicate time before the session for students to familiarise themselves with the tool. For example, provide a short tutorial video or a practice session during which students can experiment in a low-stakes environment. This step helps identify and address potential technical issues early, ensuring that both students and instructors are ready for the activity.

Internet connection: be mindful that some students might face difficulties due to unreliable or slow connections. Offer a downloadable version of the activity or provide alternative instructions for those with connectivity issues.

Device compatibility: make sure the selected tools work across multiple devices and platforms. For example, test the activity on both mobile and desktop devices to ensure accessibility.

Tool capacity: if the tool has a participant limit, organise students into teams and designate one team member to lead the activity by sharing their screen with others. Additionally, consider creating separate links or spaces for each team.

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Step 4: Break the activity down

Provide clear, concise and easy-to-follow instructions. Use visual aids, such as slides or screen recordings, to enhance understanding and reduce confusion. Avoid overloading students with unnecessary details and focus on the essential steps for completing the activity successfully. 

Step 5: Have technical support ready

Collaborate with your institution’s IT support team during the initial implementation of any new activity. Additionally, consider assigning a tech leader in each group to resolve minor issues during the session. They can resolve unexpected technical issues and help make the experience smooth for everyone involved.

Class dynamics

Once you’ve designed the activity, structure the session in a way that maximises engagement and works towards learning outcomes. I suggest the following:

Introduction and contextualisation: start by explaining the purpose of the activity and how it connects to the course content. For instance, emphasise how solving a digital escape room mirrors real-world problem-solving scenarios. This will help students understand the relevance of the task.

Activity instructions: clearly outline the steps of the activity and address any questions or concerns before beginning. Use visual aids, such as slides or screen recordings, to enhance understanding.

Teamwork in breakout rooms: divide students into previously assigned teams, using breakout rooms to encourage collaboration. Provide a checklist or guide that teams can follow to stay on track. Guide them in using the assigned tool effectively and, if needed, encourage them to share their screens to work collectively.

Plenary session: after completing the activity, reconvene all students for a plenary session. Use this time to discuss results, reflect on the process and summarise key takeaways. Incorporate a quick poll or survey to gather feedback on the activity’s effectiveness.

Integrating digital tools into synchronous online courses can transform the educational experience. They make learning more interactive, engaging and collaborative. However, their success depends on meticulous planning and preparation.

By following the steps outlined above, educators can overcome technical and pedagogical challenges, ensuring a smooth and impactful activity. These strategies not only enhance student engagement but foster skills such as teamwork, problem-solving and adaptability. Moreover, they are versatile and accessible because they can be adapted to various disciplines, from STEM fields to the humanities.

Nelly Ramírez Vázquez is lecturer at Monterrey Institute of Technology, Mexico.

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