Written by
July 6, 2022
With gifted students, a virtual classroom can fully satisfy their curiosity-driven minds and allow them to succeed independently. A virtual environment may completely cater to the needs of any gifted student, possibly even more than a traditional classroom, and allow them to feel in charge of their own learning. Here are some significant factors as to why a virtual classroom is meant for the gifted student:
Familiarity
For many students, shifting toward a virtual classroom may be a rough transition in how to proceed with day-to-day activities. However, for gifted students, that is not the case; gifted children may quickly adapt to any situation or environment and can be on board with any type of instructional activity. Moreover, many gifted students are savvy with technology and will be able to thoroughly understand the purpose of new activities.
Self-Paced
In virtual learning, a lot of activities are self-paced and students can take in a larger volume of material to remain focused. Rather than moving at the pace of other students, within a virtual environment, gifted students can move at a pace they feel most content with. Many gifted students have an aptitude for self-accountability, and they can be trusted to direct their own pacing of the content.
Considerations
However, like any student, a virtual environment still comes with its own set of responsibilities and factors to consider when teaching. Here are some things you can do to enhance your gifted students’ experience.
Enrichment Activities
At the start of a virtual class, it is necessary for students to feel fully acclimated and comfortable with the environment. Gifted students learn differently and may prefer much more interactive and explorative learning, so make sure the curriculum has those types of activities. For example, taking students on virtual field trips, inviting them create video projects, or even a full website empowers students to feel creative while being intellectually challenged.
Check-In
Despite gifted students’ aptitude toward new environments and content, it is still vital to regularly check in with them, academically and emotionally. Employing weekly check-ins into the curriculum will allow educators to see if there needs to be any slight changes to the curriculum, depending on how the students are doing. Moreover, it makes students feel heard if there are any issues regarding their home life or virtual education. Simply having a google form or scheduled chats will make students feel they are in a safe space and keep them more engaged within the virtual classroom.
