Earlier in the year we had planned a weekly live webinar to supplement the student experience. The intention was to broadcast a casual discussion we would have with students from previous years about what first year is like and some of the dos and don’ts of campus life. However, as the pandemic situation worsened, campus shutdown and all learning shifted to online formats. Rather than abandon the concept, we realised that a learning environment where students could participate in live Q&A’s with instructors was needed more than ever.
It started informally where students could ask whatever questions they liked, however, we realised that a more structured, topic-specific schedule was more organised and increased engagement. As such, we began holding two weekly webinars with a range of guests that were either; Assignment Q&A with Tutors; Exam Revision with Lecturers, or Health and Well-being with clinical psychologists and career advisors.
Two hours a week in addition to our other teaching responsibilities was a little exhausting, but the feedback has been very positive. Students were highly engaged, but more importantly, we could interact with them during an extremely stressful time in a way which allowed them to have a voice.