Tech That Tastes Right: A Recipe for Privacy, Accessibility, and Engagement
The Virtual Vibe: Success and Sanity for the Online Teacher
MAY 12, 2025
In the world of online teaching, technology can be your greatest ally or the final straw that has you reaching for a frosty adult beverage (after 5 p.m., of course). When chosen wisely, tech can boost engagement, support accessibility, and protect student privacy, all essential ingredients in today’s virtual classroom. But just like you wouldn’t dump every spice in your pantry into one crockpot meal, you don’t need every flashy app in your digital toolbox to cook up a great online learning experience.
1. Student Privacy is Non-Negotiable
We all know that collecting data about students is part of the gig, but it’s essential to protect it. Choose platforms that comply with privacy laws like FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act), and ensure any student information you collect remains secure. This includes not discussing a student’s progress with a parent, while sitting at Starbucks utilizing their free Wi-Fi for a change of scenery.
Pro Tip: Before using a new tool, double-check its privacy policy to ensure it meets the necessary standards. Protecting your students' data isn’t just best practice, it’s a professional obligation. Use public spaces like Starbucks for grading or answering emails, not for confidential conversations. And if you're in a bind? Duck into the bathroom to make that private call. No shame—we've all been there.
2. Accessibility Should Always Be a Priority
If your students can’t easily access your materials or participate in activities, then your tech is doing more harm than good. Look for tools that offer closed captions, screen reader compatibility, and user-friendly interfaces that support learners with diverse needs.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice (2024), starting in 2026, all state and local governments—including public schools and universities—must ensure their digital content (websites, apps, documents) is accessible to individuals with disabilities. This includes compliance with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 AA, which establish how content should be designed and structured to support accessibility for all users (U.S. Department of Justice, 2024).
Pro Tip: Use platforms that offer a variety of accessibility features to ensure all students can engage in the learning process. Even simple changes like choosing the right font size, color contrast, and using alt text for images can make a huge difference in a learner’s online experience.
3. Don’t Overwhelm Yourself (or Your Students)
Sure, that new video conferencing tool looks fun, but if it’s not actually adding value, it’s just another thing to juggle. Stick to a few reliable tools that actually suit your teaching style and focus on mastering them before you go chasing the next shiny object. Managing your “cool tool” addiction is like walking past a BOGO sale on Oreos—you really want to try every flavor, but sometimes, you must force yourself to pick one or two and keep right on moving.
Pro Tip: When getting started in your virtual classroom, try using features that are built into your video conferencing platform or LMS. Many programs already include tools for creating polls, interactive whiteboards, breakout rooms, and more!
By using technology strategically, protecting student privacy, and prioritizing accessibility, you'll be well on your way to building a thriving virtual classroom. Technology is here to enhance your teaching, not to overwhelm you. Trust me, the non-stop email notifications and phone calls that come your way throughout the day will be overwhelming enough!
Pause, Ponder & Progress
What privacy concerns exist with this tool, and does it comply with relevant data protection laws?
Does the tool provide necessary accessibility features, and how does it address potential equity issues for all students?
What collaborative/interactive features does my current tool already have built in? How can I utilize what is already available to me?
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.
