Secret Diary of a Teacher: To zoom or not to zoom? That is the question

"Teachers can sense the higher expectations and the demand for live lessons. Six hours of online classes seems a tad excessive to me. I’m not sure the research backs the approach."

Secret Teacher: I’ve heard horror stories of students recording live lessons and putting them up on social media. Lots of teachers keep their cameras off but my students are nothing but respectful and patient.

To zoom or not to zoom? That’s the question I pondered a few weeks ago.

Admittedly, I was reluctant to join the live teaching lark, but I’m a fully fledged convert now. It feels more effective than other options: seeing students’ expressions, connecting, checking-in, sharing a laugh. We know each other well, so the fundamental dynamic is the same. I know who wants to talk and who doesn’t; who needs attention and who’ll do anything to avoid it.