Teaching History Online – Experience and Tips

I will be one of the first to admit that online teaching and learning certainly took some adapting to. My students and I rose to the challenge and I’m proud of what they have achieved.

Once more traditional expectations regarding the teaching of History have been removed, one discovers that the subject rather lends itself to the online environment. While history may have been taught to many as a long (and very boring) list of dates, the best way to learn history is to study historical sources. This is where online learning comes into its own as students have more time and room to explore than they would in a conventional classroom setting. Many activities can be easily adapted to the online environment and even the shy students can make their opinions heard.

I’ll admit to being especially proud of my senior students. Their dedication and passion for the subject is extremely encouraging, as is their continued academic excellence. They are true Cambridge students in every regard. The world needs more diligent, creative and passionate individuals like them.

• Pace yourself and use your time effectively
• Remove distractions from your work environment (put the phone away)
• Plan your essays – it actually helps you to write faster
• Speak to the teacher if you are uncertain or experiencing problems – we are here to help
• Collaborate with your peers – online learning does not mean that you have to learn alone
• Shortcuts lead to long delays – complete that classwork task!

The Coronavirus has led me to think that it is likely more fun to read about history than to create it (the parts that make the History books at any rate). Will we study this in years to come?

Sheila Marais
High School History Teacher