With the development of virtual learning platforms and digitally connected learning resources, international students now have greater access to quality educational opportunities than ever before. Virtual classrooms act as a tool, helping students take advantage of an engaging and flexible curriculum while interacting with mentors and peers in real time, from anywhere around the world.
Read on to learn what are virtual classrooms and how the tools integrated within virtual learning platforms help students pursue both undergraduate and graduate degrees.
What Is a Virtual Classroom?
A virtual classroom is an online teaching and learning environment. It is like a real classroom, but instead of being present in the same room, students use a computer, tablet, or phone to attend classes from any location. A key feature of this format is that it actively engages learners by being held in real time.
Unlike online courses, which can be equipped with pre-recorded tutorial videos, virtual classrooms involve live interactions between teachers and learners. In this setting, students can participate in discussions, ask questions, conduct group assignments, and more.
A virtual classroom consists of the following key features:
Breakout rooms — Breakout rooms in a virtual classroom are smaller, separate discussions within the main virtual class. This feature splits students from the main virtual meeting into individual groups, allowing for more focused conversations and group work. Mentors can join individual breakout rooms separately to moderate.
Chat panel — This feature is usually located beside the video conferencing interface. It provides a space for students to type in questions, share ideas, and discuss subject material with the teacher and peers without speaking through microphones.
File sharing — Teachers and students can upload, share, and access documents, images, videos, and other files directly within the virtual classroom.
Video conferencing interface — The video conferencing interface is the main area of a virtual classroom where students and teachers can see and hear each other. This allows the teacher to conduct the class by moderating student participation, presenting course material, and even recording the class for future reference.
Whiteboard and presentation area — Digital whiteboards are an interactive space where teachers and students can write, draw, and share ideas in real time using digital drawing tools such as pens, erasers, text boxes, and more. Similarly, presentation boards are where slides, documents, videos, or other media are displayed to all participants in a virtual classroom. This is similar to using a projector or smartboard in a physical classroom.
Quiz or assignment space — Most virtual classroom platforms allow teachers to design and share digital quizzes and assignments to evaluate how well students have absorbed classroom content.
For students to enroll in a virtual classroom, here’s a list of the essential equipment required:
Computer or mobile device — You can log in to your classes and complete your coursework through a laptop, desktop computer, mobile phone, or tablet.
Stable internet connection — Ensure your internet connection is strong and uninterrupted for a smooth classroom experience. Unstable connectivity can impact your interaction with your mentor and participation in class.
Speaker or headphones — Your speaker and headphone set enable you to listen to what the teacher is saying. Consider choosing noise-canceling headphones to avoid feedback and distractions if you have to log in to class in a noisy environment.
Microphone — A microphone is an essential hardware component as it ensures your teacher and peers can hear you within the class. A good quality microphone is important for making sure you can speak clearly and ask questions when you need to.
Virtual classroom platforms — This is the application that will enable you to log in to your virtual classroom (e.g. Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, or Zoom). You will be required to create an account and profile to join your virtual classes. Your teacher may also schedule classes through the platform, so it is important to keep the software installed and updated on the device you are planning to use for your virtual classes.
Web camera — A built-in or external USB web camera is required for your teacher to be able to see you during class. It is also important to keep in mind the quality of your camera, background, and the overall lighting of your space.
If you enroll in virtual classes, it can be helpful to check that your hardware and software are compatible to create a seamless online learning experience. When devices, operating systems, and learning platforms work well together, it is easier to join classes, access materials, and complete assignments without technical hiccups. Taking some time to check that all your equipment is working properly can boost your confidence and help you stay focused!
Virtual Classroom Examples
Schools, universities, businesses, and other organizations use virtual classrooms to deliver knowledge and training for a wide range of purposes. Here are several examples of how virtual classrooms are used.
Boot Camps
Boot camps are short-term programs that offer training in a specific skill. These may include graphic design, fine arts, web development, and data analytics. Boot camps offer students access to training sessions via virtual classrooms, enabling students from different parts of the world to connect and learn.
Online Degree Programs
Many universities have now introduced online degree programs where students can enroll in classes virtually. Through virtual classrooms, students participate in classroom discussions, assignments, and group projects to earn credits and complete their degrees.
Webinars
These are live, knowledge-based, online seminars or presentations held over virtual classrooms. Many universities and organizations may invite experts from around the world to present their ideas and share their knowledge online to an invited group of participants.
Workshops
Virtual classrooms provide the tools and environment needed to run workshops offering hands-on training in specific skills online. These workshops are interactive and collaborative, just like in-person ones. Through digital whiteboards and breakout rooms, virtual classrooms enable students to participate in workshops from anywhere around the world.
Virtual classrooms are a vital tool used in business organizations, universities, and schools to offer learning opportunities wherever you are located. They also play a crucial role in a digital classroom environment, offering effective and accessible instruction through features such as gamification models, Virtual Reality (VR) learning, and more!
Virtual Classrooms vs. Digital Classroom: What Is the Difference?
A virtual classroom is a real-time, online learning environment where teachers and students interact live. You may also have heard of digital classrooms — these refer to a learning environment where technology is fully integrated into teaching and learning. In a digital classroom, virtual classrooms are used as a tool to connect students from any location.
Definition
Digital Classroom
A learning environment where technology is fully integrated in all aspects of teaching and learning, online and in person
Virtual Classroom
A real-time, live online learning environment for mentors and students to interact
Primary use
Digital Classroom
Engaging tech-centric teaching and learning techniques, assignments, and student evaluation
Virtual Classroom
Conducting live lectures and discussions
Interaction style
Digital Classroom
Allows real-time communication through virtual classrooms and delayed communication through digital forums and comment threads
Virtual Classroom
Focuses on immediate, two-way interaction, such as real-time Q&A, group discussion, and live feedback
Access to learning resources
Digital Classroom
Content is always accessible (assignments, videos, notes, discussions), which supports self-paced learning
Virtual Classroom
Students receive content during the live class or as follow-up materials
Assessment tools
Digital Classroom
Full assessment functionality, including quizzes, rubrics, submissions, feedback, and grade tracking
Virtual Classroom
Verbal participation, live quizzes, or short polls
A digital classroom is a comprehensive learning environment that includes virtual classrooms as part of a wider system for managing student learning experiences and outcomes virtually. Using virtual classrooms is an important part of improving access to education, the cost of higher education, and more.
Virtual Classroom Benefits
With the right virtual classroom platforms and tools within a digital classroom, students can leverage multiple benefits of online learning. Here is a closer look at the advantages of virtual classrooms.
Flexible Scheduling
Teachers can hold live classes at various times and be flexible for students in various time zones. This makes it easier for students to balance school, work, or other responsibilities while completing their course.
Distance Online Learning
Students anywhere in the world have access to degree programs, specialized courses, and training opportunities. Virtual classrooms have resulted in greater access to quality education.
Cost Reduction
Virtual classrooms reduce costs by eliminating the need for infrastructure, such as classrooms, utilities, and printed materials. Students and teachers also save on costs like commuting, accommodations, and classroom supplies, making education more affordable.
Easy Recording and Review
Most online platforms enable teachers to record the class. If a student is unable to join a virtual class, they can view the class video at a later time without having to miss a session.
Easy Content Updates
Chat panels, digital whiteboards, and presentation areas make it easy for instructors to update lessons, assignments, and resources instantly. Instead of reprinting materials, teachers can quickly edit content, upload new files, or share links, so students have access to the most current information.
Explore Degree Programs with Virtual Classrooms at Top US Universities
If you are looking to become an international student to pursue your undergraduate or graduate degree, reach out to our expert counselors. Shorelight counselors can help you understand virtual classroom meanings, choose among top-ranked Shorelight universities that integrate digital and virtual classroom features, and help you decide if a virtual classroom experience is the right choice for your academic journey.
