Order in the (Virtual) Courtroom!
The Virtual Vibe: Success and Sanity for the Online Teacher
JUNE 9, 2025
Tips to Manage Your Online Classroom with Ease
Managing an online classroom can sometimes feel like hosting a live show where the audience forgets they’re supposed to participate. Between frozen screens, surprise background noise, and students who vanish into digital silence, keeping everything on track can feel like a high wire act. But take a breath, order is possible. With a few simple strategies, you can create a structured, engaging space that works for everyone (including you).
Make the Mute Button Your BFF
Let’s face it, random barking dogs, doorbells, and side conversations are the unofficial soundtrack of virtual learning. Enter: the mute button. Set the tone early by establishing a simple rule: “Mute unless you’re speaking.” This small expectation creates a focused, respectful space for everyone.
Pro Tip: Use a fun visual cue like a custom slide or virtual background that says “Mute equals Magic” as a lighthearted reminder. It reinforces the rule without constant verbal reminders and adds a touch of personality to your virtual space. As the meeting host, you ultimately have the power to mute anyone you would like. Muahahahahahah!
Thumbs Up, Thumbs Down Equals Instant Feedback
Wondering if your students are following along or mentally scrolling Instagram? Cue the non-verbal check ins. Simple tools like thumbs up/thumbs down or green check/red X features let you gauge understanding without interrupting your flow. This is especially useful when playing videos, which can turn into commercial breaks where students zone out. Pause every few minutes to check in, ask quick questions, or spark deeper discussion to keep their attention throughout the lesson.
Pro Tip: Use this after each major concept: “Thumbs up if you’re good to go, thumbs down if you need a review” or “Give me a green check if I am going at a good rate of speed OR a red X if you would like for me to slow down”. You’ll get instant feedback and can adjust on the fly.
Set Expectations Visibly and Consistently
Just like in a traditional classroom, online students thrive when they know what to expect. Take time at the start of the year (and throughout) to reinforce guidelines on speaking, participation, tech etiquette, and engagement. Something to consider: requiring cameras during live lessons can boost participation because students recognize they’re on screen. However, be mindful of students who prefer to keep their camera off not due to disengagement but perhaps because they’re uncomfortable showing what’s behind them.
Pro Tip: Turn classroom expectations into a student designed infographic or slide. When learners help create the rules, they’re more likely to follow them.
Embrace the 20/80 Rule: Less You, More Them
If you find yourself doing most of the talking during your lessons, it’s likely your students are tuning out. Aim for a 20/80 split—20% teacher talk and 80% student-led engagement. When students are creating, collaborating, and discussing, they stay more invested in their learning. Otherwise, you risk sounding like the Charlie Brown teacher… yeah, I just dated myself there, didn’t I? It’s also helpful to have a co-instructor monitor breakout rooms to ensure productive behavior. Remember, this balance takes practice to develop.
Pro Tip: Use breakout rooms for discussion, invite student presenters, and rotate discussion leaders. Giving students ownership leads to deeper learning and better behavior.
Final Thought: Keep It Fun, Keep It Flowing
Online classrooms don’t have to be chaotic or dull. With clear expectations, consistent routines, and engaging strategies, you can transform your virtual space into a lively, respectful learning environment. It’s all about balance, connection, and a little bit of structure.
Pause, Ponder & Progress
What classroom expectations do I need to revisit or reinforce to support a smoother online experience?
How can I make nonverbal feedback (like thumbs up/thumbs down or green check/red X) a consistent part of my lesson flow?
Am I talking more than my students? What strategies can I use to shift the balance?
What new routines could make my virtual classroom feel more focused and fun?
About the Author
With over 20 years in education - most of them spent in the virtual trenches - Desire’ Mosser has done more than survive online teaching; she’s helped others thrive in it! As the author of SOS: Strategies for Online Survival, she dishes out practical tools, honest lessons, and just the right amount of humor to keep educators going.
Former Pasco eSchool Teacher of the Year and Florida Virtual Schools Mentor of the Year, she continues to champion excellence in virtual learning today. She currently serves as Vice President of B.O.L.D. (Blended Online Learning Discovery of Florida). Her passion? Coaching educators to find their stride, build meaningful connections with students and families, and master the art of scheduling for sanity—preferably with a strong cup of coffee in hand. For more real talk, useful tips, and the occasional caffeine-fueled confession, connect with her on LinkedIn.
