WebEx Breakout Sessions: Enhancing Student Engagement during Remote Learning

Abstract

Remote learning is the new norm in education. For the past year, it is globally accepted that it has become the routine for all educators and learners, specifically in higher education, to adopt remote learning as their forced choice of teaching and learning mode. However, it invites glitches in lesson delivery and classroom activities to adjust to ensure meaningful teaching and learning occur during online classes. One of the most significant problems is student engagement. Since synchronous learning is part of the lecture method used in higher education, WebEx offers breakout groups that enable learners to mix and mingle online to share thoughts and present ideas. This current study seeks to explore learning activities and strategies adopted via WebEx to increase learner engagement. Through a series of participant observations and student reflection entries from Padlet, the researchers provide some insights from course participants. 4 themes emerged from the data – Engaging lessons, Interesting activities, Positive vibes, and Improving communication. The findings from this study can be used in preparing a module on using WebEx effectively with students in higher education.