Ben Cogswell's Virtual Teaching Strategies

The video features a discussion on distance learning with Ben Cogswell, a kindergarten teacher from Salinas, California. Ben shares his experiences and strategies for engaging students in online learning, emphasizing the importance of family involvement and effective classroom management. He highlights the use of technology and fun activities to maintain student interest and participation. The session concludes with a Q&A segment addressing audience questions.

What is the primary language spoken by the majority of students in Ben Cogswell's school district?

• Chinese

• French

• Spanish

• English

How did Ben Cogswell's district prepare for distance learning before the pandemic?

• By using textbooks

• By conducting online classes

• By implementing one-to-one Chromebooks

• By hiring more teachers

What unique method does Ben use to make his virtual classes engaging for kindergarteners?

• Giving extra homework

• Incorporating puppets and astronaut helmets

• Playing educational videos

• Using a whiteboard

What tool does Ben use to help students engage in off-screen activities?

• A projector

• A document camera

• A smartboard

• A tablet

Why does Ben emphasize not overusing the mute button during virtual classes?

• It makes the class too quiet

• It prevents students from participating

• It causes technical issues

• It distracts the teacher

What is one of the challenges Ben faces with his students during virtual classes?

• Students not having a quiet place to study

• Students not having internet access

• Students not having enough homework

• Students not having textbooks

How does Ben ensure that his students are not just passively listening during virtual classes?

• By giving them quizzes

• By asking them to draw and write

• By showing them movies

• By giving them extra assignments

What does Ben use to signal his students to respond during virtual classes?

• A bell

• A whistle

• A hand clap

• A light signal

How does Ben involve parents in the learning process?

• By sending weekly newsletters

• By using Facebook to share student work

• By sending daily emails

• By organizing parent-teacher meetings

What is one way Ben manages his own family’s schedule during distance learning?

• By hiring a tutor

• By having a family meeting every day

• By creating a pocket chart with schedules

• By sending his kids to daycare