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Hello. I'd like to mention that the video gave some really good advice to improve in online classes. In my personal case, I will improve with the posture, be more active standing up, and make sure of ussing a good a background. All these things will contribute to have a better environment in class and help students to learn in a better way, they will feel confident and connected with the teacher too.

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I think having a more dynamic posture can help transmit more energy, improve communication, and keep students more engaged. I also try to use gestures and movement to make explanations clearer and create a stronger connection with students. Small adjustments like these can make online classes feel more interactive, natural, and motivating.

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Hi Edwin here. I'd like to get started with what I call the triangle of trust which is to clearly build on success in this case English learning. The triangle is based on three key elements Authenticity, Empathy and Logic. If any of these three gets shaky, everything wobbles. With this being said remote learning prevents us from being close phisically speaking so it's evident that those gaps must be filled up so the students feels he can count on the one who is teaching him her sth.

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What I will do is constantly change the background and try to teach the class not sitting down but try to walk in a big space so that the students are mor aware of what is happening.

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Hello, I'm Paula V.

I know that having virtual classes is the only alternative that some people have due to their obligations and responsabilities so I try to make this process as smooth as possible. Good lighting, an active posture, and engaging body language can greatly improve virtual classes because they help students stay focused and connected with the teacher. Clear lighting allows students to see facial expressions better, while an active posture and natural gestures make the class more dynamic and interesting. In conclusion, using positive body language and a professional visual presence creates a more interactive and effective learning environment.

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Having good posture and clear body gestures is very important when teaching a virtual class. When you sit or stand straight and use natural hand movements, you look more confident and help students understand your message better. Your gestures can guide attention, show emotions, and make explanations clearer, especially in an online English class.

It’s also important to have eye contact with the camera, a friendly tone of voice, and clear pronunciation. A simple and clean background, good lighting, and organized materials also help students stay focused. When all these elements work together, students feel more comfortable, pay attention, and connect more easily with the class.

Harol Parra S.

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In my online lessons, I am committed to improving student engagement by focusing on good posture and expressive gestures to build stronger, more "human" connections. To support this, I always use a background to provide a clean, professional "stage" that ensures my movements are clear and free from distractions. Beyond just speaking, I plan to incorporate brain breaks and active dynamics in the middle of class, giving students a necessary rest from the screen while keeping the energy high. By combining a consistent visual environment with these physical movements, I aim to create a space that feels both organized and genuinely interactive.

By: Manuela María Rendón Salazar

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I reckon it is important to keep a balance between giving a lot of energy, and also give the opportunity to students to become the main character in the class. It means asking them to move and express their ideas not only through speaking but through doing gestures.

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I'll try working while standing up. I’ve done it before but forgot to keep it up regularly. So, I’ll focus on doing it more often when teaching online.

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After watching the video and doing my own research, I believe that good posture helps us in many different ways! Considering that is not just a way to show yourself better in camera, but it also aids in the long run when it comes to easing the load on your back.

In addition, a better posture allows us to project our voice better, further enhancing the teaching process.

Nicolás Virviescas

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I think one of the easiest tips to improve online classes is to use a more active posture while teaching. sometimes when i get tired I tend to relax and change to "more comfortable postures" on the chair, but a good posture with good lighting make the students ( and I) feel more connected.

Rafael S

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After watching the video, I realized that there are other strategies to use when teaching virtually. I am not someone who particularly enjoys virtual classes because I am a very social person who needs to be physically present and interact with others in a real way. However, I understand that in this field it is necessary to adapt and not close oneself off to new ways of learning. The video offers very important recommendations regarding movement and posture, something I had not considered before.

- Santi Monsalve.

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Good posture really helps during online classes. If I sit too long , I get tired and stiff, but standing up for a bit makes you feel more focused and awake.

It is a small change that can make our teaching and learning easier.

I would start implementing this strategy so I can feel more comfortable during the lesson and less exhausted at the end.

Gloria V.

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After watching the video, I consider that standing up would be a good strategy to use during my online classes. Regarding body movement, it is essential for students to see the teacher moving, or even raising the voice slightly to check their understanding.

I also would like to change my tone of voice when I am giving feedback or instructions. In addition, I would take into consideration maintaining good posture and including short breaks during the class to avoid student boredom and keep their attention.

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I haven’t thought about standing up ! It makes a lot of sense, you body creates more energy when you do and it would be nice to apply it with students as well !!

Juampa !

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Hi, I am Yuriana. I hadn't thought about teaching while standing until now, but it makes a lot of sense and I'm looking forward to trying it, since when I'm sitting down, my gestures often aren't expressive enough.

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After watching the video, I realized that standing up during my lessons could be a great improvement for both me and my students. It would help me stay more dynamic, keep my energy high, and create a more engaging atmosphere for them as well..

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To increase engagement, I would incorporate more interactive activities like short discussions, role-plays, and collaborative tasks, allowing students to actively participate rather than just listen. Using tools like polls or quick games could also make the class more dynamic.

Finally, to strengthen emotional connection, I would create a more supportive and friendly atmosphere by encouraging students to share their ideas, acknowledging their efforts, and providing positive feedback. Building this sense of trust can help students feel more comfortable and motivated to participate in the online classroom.

By: Melissa A Echeverry V

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Esteban Torres

I think everything comes down to keeping it simple. I don’t like virtual teaching that much because I feel better being face to face with my students, but to be effective in this very common teaching method nowadays, it comes down to three things:

Having a good setup: Having everything organized and within reach, either physically or virtually (cables, notes, documents, etc)

Having a good posture: I don’t know if this happens only to me, but I think my performance gets worse if I don’t have a good disposition to do what I’m doing, and a big part of that is posture.

Making everything interactive: It may be difficult for students, or even for the teacher, to look at a screen all day at work and then go to class and do the same. So I always try to make things easier with different activities, questions, or by making the class feel different, so they can learn but leave work and other distractions behind and focus on the lesson.

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Firstly, I would definitely have to change my desk’s position in my room. I’ve noticed the lighting isn’t very good since my back is facing the window, so I mostly depend on artificial light. My room isn’t very well lit.

I was also thinking about making a tower of books for my laptop because my back really hurts after I finish my lessons. It’s a bit uncomfortable, but I think it’s much better for my back and my health in general.

By the way, I bought a new desk and chair from IKEA. They weren’t that expensive, and I feel much more comfortable than before. I also need to relax more while teaching my lessons, I tend to tense my muscles, especially my back, so it really helps to teach some parts of the class standing up.

Finally, Identifying each of my students with such a small camera view has been challenging, so I need to figure out an activity where students can introduce themselves. I can also ask them to use the full-screen camera option so everyone can see each other better.

Carlos Marín

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Juliana Palacio Sanchez

To enhance my online teaching environment, I would focus on three key areas: clarity, engagement, and emotional connection, making intentional adjustments based on the observations from the video.

First, I’d work on my setup. I would use better lighting so my face is clearly visible and choose a clean, simple background without distractions. This helps students stay focused and makes the class feel more professional and organized. I’d also keep my camera at eye level so it feels more natural, like we’re having a real conversation.

Second, I’d pay more attention to my body language. I’d use more hand gestures to explain ideas, vary my facial expressions, and avoid looking too static on screen. This helps keep students engaged and makes explanations easier to understand, especially in an online environment where attention can drop quickly.

Finally, I’d focus on building a stronger emotional connection with my students. I’d try to look directly at the camera, smile more often, and use a warm, encouraging tone. I want students to feel comfortable, supported, and confident enough to participate.

Overall, these changes would help me create a clearer, more engaging, and more human online learning experience.

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Ricardo Silva

I have already tried some of the things stated in the video: I "bleached" a little my favorite Colombo backdrops to help me stand out cleare and I like to use my camera settings in High or HD which allow a brader view (as long as internet connection holds). This allows me to have more space to use body language.

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Hello there, I am Tatiana Usme.

After reflecting on my previous practices, and watching the video, I 've come to realize that there are some small/big aspects that could improve my students learning experience.

To beggin with I'd say that I'm starting to include the one of stading up every now and then, when you need to make presentations of any particular topic. Definitely, this changes the position and gives more focus to certain things, also, for students, it can be like a break from watching you being static all the time which fosters engagement.

Futhermore, in order to boost emotional connection with my students, I always priotize a good camera resolution, good light, and internet speed, it might be perceived as something with low relevance when it comes to connect with them however when students can look at you and your eyes, and they asked you something and inmediately you answer, when they make a reaction and you provide comments to that, you start interacting with them and creating bonds.

And, finally, when it comes to clarity, it is pivotal to have excellent visual resources, i always spend and devote a specific amount of time to create appealing, engaging and attractive slides, so they interact with what is there, and ask questions actively.

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Hiii, This is Valentina M

Based on my current practices and the insights from the video, I would make the following specific changes to further enhance my online teaching environment:

To Improve Clarity: While I currently use a professional Chicago skyline institutional backdrop and ensure my space is quiet and organized, I will focus on optimizing my lighting. Ensuring the light source is in front of me will make my facial expressions clearer against the virtual background, reducing any visual "ghosting" and helping students follow my cues better.

To Enhance Engagement: Since I already consistently use videos and slides as visual aids, I will focus on refining the transitions between my shared screen and my live camera feed. My goal is to ensure that my "face-to-face" energy remains the focal point, using the digital materials as a support rather than a replacement for our interaction, thereby keeping students more actively involved in the narrative of the lesson.

To Deepen Emotional Connection: To reinforce the feeling of a face-to-face session, I will make a conscious effort to maintain eye contact with the camera lens rather than the screen. This small adjustment ensures that when I bring my energy to the class, each student feels a direct, personal connection, which helps bridge the distance of the online environment and strengthens our classroom community.

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Hello everyone, Here's Luis Felipe Garzon Yepes.

It is a pleasure to share my reflections on this module. After watching the video by Bridget Green, I gained several invaluable insights that I am eager to implement in my virtual classes at the downtown site.

One of the most impactful takeaways was the concept of active posture. I realized that while I try to keep my chair at a good height, I often remain in a static, 'caged' position. Bridget’s suggestion to stand up while delivering a presentation really resonated with me; it improves breathing and energy, and it allows for more dynamic movement - moving closer for personal moments or further back to emphasize a point. To achieve this, I plan to create an adjustable DIY standing desk using a stack of books, which is a simple yet effective solution mentioned in our resources.

Additionally, I found the information on intentional gestures very enlightening. While I already use puppets and a screaming chicken to engage my students, I now understand that incorporating iconic and metaphoric gestures can specifically help them process and remember new information more effectively.

Finally, I’ve learned how crucial lighting is for building an emotional connection. Ensuring I have soft, natural light in front of me will allow my students to see my facial expressions clearly, which is vital for keeping them focused and connected to the lesson.

I am excited to implement these small but powerful adjustments to bring more energy and clarity to my sessions. I look forward to reading about your own setups!

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I’m not really a fan of teaching online. That’s what I used to say, perhaps because I didn’t feel ready for it, and because in-person classes allow you to express yourself and use more gestures. However, now that I’ve been teaching online for a while, those old thoughts have disappeared. I even use more gestures, I present myself just as I do in in-person classes, and if I need to stand up to clarify something, I do. I think all of us teachers have learned through practice, discovering the different tools and strategies that help not only the teacher deliver a good class, but also the students, who get caught up in the atmosphere and feel more engaged, particularly the classes at 6:25 or those who attend class late at night, after work. Therefore, the different strategies and recommendations shown in the video are vital to continued improvement. I’ll make sure to put them into practice. Yineth Arias

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Jorge Vallejo

For me, it's really difficult teaching online. Not because the materials or methods, but because I like to move around a classroom. I'm very expressive with my body so I use it a lot in class. Teaching online doesn't allow me to fully move. However, the video offers some solution to my problem: having a standing desk or just some boxes. This is a really good idea but honestly I'm not a big fan of it. Something that I will definetly improve is my lightning. Where I teach, I usually have good lightning as I am next to a window. But, my online classes are at night, so this natural light is not available. So, I need to use my room's light, sadly it is broken so I've been using a lamp, which it is not as strong as a bedroom light. Changing my broken light into a new one will allow me to have excelent lightning when teaching online.

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Actually, to be honest with you, I've been immersed in virtual learning environments since 2019. Hence, for me it's not an unknow topic/scenario. That said, I'm not as expert as other of my Colombo's teammates, but I have used/applied/fostered mostly of the suggestions pointed out by Bridget - except for the light - I've had had a harsh time while setting up my light on my own place, perhaps the space does not help either, but I've been thinking in purchasing a light ring (those used for trending people while recording videos), that way, I guess my students may noticed my expressions even better than currently.

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Sofia Osorio

To enhance my online teaching environment, I’d focus on creating a more immersive and professional digital stage that mirrors the energy of my in-person classes. First, I’d prioritize visual and audio clarity by elevating my camera to eye level to maintain consistent eye contact and switching to a dedicated external microphone; this ensures my students catch every inflection and non-verbal cue, which is essential for building a real emotional connection. To boost engagement, I already integrate interactive digital tools like collaborative whiteboards, allowing us to build materials together in real-time rather than just following a slide deck.

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Ricardo González

To improve my online teaching environment, I would focus on a few key adjustments. First, I would make sure my lighting and camera position are even better so students can clearly see my facial expressions, which helps with clarity and connection. I would also simplify my background and keep my desk more organized to reduce distractions and keep lessons flowing smoothly.

To increase engagement, I would use more gestures, vary my tone of voice, and include students’ names more often to keep them involved. I’d also add more interactive moments, like quick questions or check-ins, so students feel more active during the lesson.

For emotional connection, I would smile more, maintain consistent eye contact with the camera, and show encouragement through positive feedback. These small changes can help create a more welcoming and supportive atmosphere where students feel comfortable participating.

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Josué Díez Vélez

I have already implemented most of these suggestions Bridget gave us. I have a nice microphone you can tune so you don't sound too quiet nor too loud, a high resolution camera and a pretty decent lightning in my setup. Nonetheless I have experience a lot of lag with calls with too many open cameras. Idk if this happens to other teacher or only me. I've tried many different alternatives to fix this but none have worked, I guess the only thing left to do is to get a new laptop :c. I'll try standing up during the sessions. Sounds quite interesting!

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Juan Felipe Rodriguez After watching the video, I realized how much small adjustments can impact the student experience. One specific change I plan to make is being more intentional about my eye contact. Looking directly into the camera lens, rather than at my screen, will help build a stronger emotional connection and make students feel like I'm speaking directly to them. I also want to improve my lighting and camera angle so my facial expressions are clearer, which I believe will naturally boost engagement and make the virtual space feel more welcoming.

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After watching the video, I consider these ideas are very useful and interesting for improving online teaching. I had never thought about teaching online while standing up, and it's such a great idea!

I will try to enhance my online teaching by creating a distraction-free environment. Finally, I would like to start incorporating more movement and body language into my lessons to make them more dynamic and engaging.

By: María Camila Orozco López

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Based on the insights shared during the pre-discussion and what I observed in the video, I would focus on improving my mannerisms and my positioning to create a more engaging and effective online teaching environment. I would work on using more intentional gestures, clearer facial expressions, and consistent eye contact with the camera to strengthen communication and help students feel more connected. Additionally, I would adjust my position by ensuring I am centered, at eye level, and well-lit, so my presence feels more natural and accessible. These changes would enhance clarity by making my explanations easier to follow, increase engagement by capturing and maintaining students’ attention, and foster a stronger emotional connection by making the interaction feel more personal and dynamic. Att: Daniel Acevedo

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I’m looking forward to improving my classroom environment. I believe one of the best strategies is spending more time standing, which is why I’m getting an adjustable desk. This will help me appear more energetic and engaged during my classes.

By: Santiago Padilla Carrascal

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To enhance my online teaching, I would focus on increasing student interaction by incorporating more dynamic activities like breakout discussions, quick polls, and collaborative tasks that keep learners actively involved. I’d also aim to personalize feedback more consistently and use a wider variety of digital tools to make lessons more engaging and visually appealing, while maintaining a supportive and energetic presence that encourages participation and connection.

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Having read some of the comments from my peers and watched the video , I realize that having an istitutional backdrop , keeping the space neat and standing up while teaching makes a huge difference in engaging our students .

I find standing up really useful while having the online session , since we can keep a good body posture , which gives the impression of in- person face to face to class .

By Levis Benitez

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Based on the insights from the pre-discussion and what I observed in the video, I would make several intentional changes to enhance my online teaching environment. First, I would improve my lighting and camera positioning to ensure my face is clearly visible and at eye level. This would help create better eye contact and make my presence feel more direct and engaging for students.

I would also simplify and organize my background, adding a few personal yet professional elements—such as a plant or books—to create a warm and inviting atmosphere without causing distractions. This balance can help students feel more comfortable and connected.

In terms of engagement, I would be more intentional with my body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice to convey enthusiasm and clarity. Additionally, I would incorporate more interactive moments, such as asking questions, pausing for responses, or using students’ names, to foster participation.

Finally, to strengthen emotional connection, I would make a conscious effort to appear approachable and present, showing attentiveness and encouragement throughout the session. These adjustments can significantly improve not only clarity and engagement but also help build a more supportive and human learning environment.

Laura Rodríguez Londoño

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Reflecting on the video, I realize how much active posture and engaging body language can compensate for the physical distance in online teaching. While I already use a professional institutional backdrop, I plan to focus more on my hand gestures and maintaining eye contact with the camera to improve emotional connection. Additionally, I’ll ensure my lighting remains consistent to enhance clarity, making sure my students can always see my expressions clearly, which I believe is vital for their engagement and overall learning experience. -Daniel Guzman Cifuentes

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Given the conversation and the video, I would implement a few small yet impactful adjustments to enhance my online teaching experience.

To start, I would focus more on maintaining proper posture. Sitting in a more engaged and upright way can help convey more energy and confidence, making the class feel more stimulating for students.

I would also enhance my lighting. Ensuring my face is well-illuminated and clearly visible can significantly aid in communication, especially in a virtual context where students depend heavily on facial expressions.

Concerning my backdrop, I would keep it straightforward but more purposeful. It should be non-distracting while still looking tidy and professional, thereby supporting the learning atmosphere.

Lastly, I would put more effort into my body language. Incorporating more gestures,

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As a tall person, finding a great spot to place the laptop and preventing bending or bad postures is kind of complex. So, that's why a long time ago I decided to get a laptop stand in order to take care of my posture and be able to open my shoulders, face up, and have certain freedom when teaching the class.

In terms of lighting, I tend to look for natural light, but I always have a desktop lamp in order to avoid high contrast and shadows. However, there is always room for improvement. I am planning to get a better quality camera to my laptop and of course, to give standing classes a shot.

Andres Cuartas

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Based on the discussion and the video, I would make a few small but meaningful changes to improve my online teaching environment.

First, I would pay more attention to my posture. Sitting in a more active and upright position can help me project more energy and confidence, which makes the class feel more engaging for students.

I would also improve my lighting. Making sure my face is well-lit and clearly visible can really help with communication, especially in a virtual setting where students rely a lot on facial expressions.

Regarding my backdrop, I would keep it simple but more intentional. Not distracting, but still neat and professional, so it supports the learning environment.

Finally, I would work more on my body language. Using more gestures, varying my tone of voice, and reacting more visibly can help students stay focused and feel more connected. These small changes can make the class feel more dynamic and closer to a real interaction.

Stiven Bedoya Suárez

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I would make several adjustments to enhance my online teaching environment. First, I would improve my camera setup and lighting, and be more intentional about looking at the camera rather than the screen to simulate eye contact and create a stronger sense of connection with students.

To improve clarity, I would incorporate well-designed slides that highlight key ideas and support comprehension. These slides would serve as visual anchors rather than something to read from.

In addition, I would consider standing to bring more energy and use natural gestures, which can make the class more dynamic and engaging. Finally, to strengthen emotional connection, I would focus on small but meaningful actions such as using students’ names, encouraging participation, and maintaining a positive and supportive tone.

Overall, these changes would help create a clearer, more engaging, and more human online learning experience.”

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Regarding my posture, I can’t stand because the Colombo backdrop I use on the screen gets distorted with certain movements. Also, my headphones don’t allow me to move freely. In my case, this would be uncomfortable. I stay seated, but I use my hands a lot. I’m a very expressive and spontaneous person, which helps keep my students engaged. My energy is always active, and I’m in constant interaction with my students asking questions and allowing them to participate a lot.

Marilyn Arango A.

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One change I would make is improving my lighting. Sometimes it is not the best, and that can affect how clearly students see me. Better lighting would help make the class clearer and support a stronger connection through my body language.

Overall, this small adjustment would improve both clarity and emotional connection in my online classes. By:Emely Garzon

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In my case, the space where I teach is a bit dark, so I will improve it by adding a lamp next to me to have better lighting. I think standing up while teaching is a very good idea because it gives me more energy, helps me use body language and gestures, and makes the class more dynamic and engaging. It also helps me feel more confident and connected with my students.

I believe these small changes are very important because they help create a safe and creative learning environment, which keeps students motivated and encourages active participation.

By: Deisi Yohana López

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I would improve my online teaching by using more body language and facial expressions to make explanations clearer and more engaging for the students.

I also need to vary my tone of voice to keep students interested and avoid monotony, since this is one of the biggest challenges that I need to continue improving.

Finally, standing up while teaching can help me show more energy and include movement-based activities. These changes would make my classes more dynamic, clear, and emotionally engaging for students.

By: Diego Acevedo.

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I consider that I need to make my online classes clearer, more interactive, and more personal. To improve clarity, I would give step-by-step instructions and use more visual support or examples. Moreover, I would include more interactive activities such as polls, and games, so students participate more instead of just listening. Furthermore, I would make sure to create a safe space where they feel comfortable speaking and making mistakes.

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After reflecting on the video, I realized that small changes can make a big difference. I would focus on improving my lighting and camera positioning so that students can clearly see my expressions. I would also try to be more intentional with my body language, even if I am seated.

Another important change would be to bring more energy into my teaching, since this directly affects students’ motivation. By combining a clear visual setup with a more expressive delivery, I believe I can improve both understanding and emotional connection in my classes.

By Sergio Guarín.

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I think that I have a good place to work because it has natural and artificial lighting so my students can see me perfectly. On the other hand, I wouldn't like to stand up because I don't have a proper desk for that.

What I could improve is my body language because sometimes I don't use many hand gestures and maybe it could be difficult for my students to understand or have an idea of what I'm talking about.

By: Asdaly Cardona.

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Mauricio Monsalve

I have found the information provided in the video extremely valuable when it comes to conducting online classes that keep students not only focused but also engaged throughout the lesson. One idea I am eager to implement is standing during class sessions. I had never considered the many benefits this brings in terms of sustaining attention and promoting both psychological and physical well-being. I would also like to use gestures and body language more consciously to create a stronger connection with my students.

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When I teach my classes online I try to keep a tidy environment (or a nice backdrop). Illumination is also key because otherwise it is distracting when your attention focuses on the bad quality of the teacher's camera. To me it is a bit difficult to implement some of the suggestions of the video as my space is not really suited for standing up and moving around, and also because many times is better to be closer to the screen so that we can explain something using the whiteboard of the conference app. But I do agree that being expressive is a most when the focus is on you and not the slides.

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Cesar Cardenas

To enhance my online teaching environment, I would focus on projecting energy and professionalism, which can increase students’ attention and perception of clarity during explanations.

I would use more engaging body language, such as natural hand gestures, facial expressions, and consistent eye contact with the camera. These elements help convey enthusiasm and make my communication more dynamic, which strengthens students’ engagement and emotional connection.

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Maria Camila Cárdenas:

Teaching online while standing up can be very beneficial, not only to project confidence and authority, but also for physical well-being. Sitting for long periods can be exhausting, so standing and moving around helps maintain energy and focus throughout the class.

Additionally, having a proper backdrop is one of the most professional choices a teacher can make. A clean and organized background helps students stay focused on the lesson and the teacher, rather than getting distracted by what is happening behind them.

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Dennis Valencia:

I think I have a nice and comfortable setup for my online courses. At home, I have an office type of chair, I have natural lightning, I use a computer base so I can move back a little. This has allowed me to have a proper posture and use my body language. I think standing up is a great idea for some moments in the class, depending on the activity perhaps and to engange students as well to make a brief active pause, too. It is also true that if your energy is low, it is more likely that the one of the students is too. So, keeping up the energy, using our body language, the lightning and the backdrops will definately make a difference.

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I strongly believe that body expression is a key aspect for online teachers, along with a good tone of voice. I make sure to implement both in my classes, paying attention to my posture and lighting. One concern I have about standing up is the audio—moving or walking during the class might make it harder for students to understand what we say

Isabella Guarín :)

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By: Lorenzo 😎

Personally I don't feel comfortable standing up and talking through a screen, for me it's quite odd. however I have a very comfortable chair and it works for me perfectly, Also I try to set my laptop far from me so students see my gestures, as the video says, students feel your energy, so when they see you doing different gesture they feel more engage in class.

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I already have a standing desk and try to have an engaging space. What I try to do is to direct the class showing "real life interaction": I bring the students attention to my gestures and visual explanations and also engage them directly, paying attention to their surroundings.

Ronald Hoyos Goez

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By: Estefania Restrepo.

I think this is so helpful. Especially for teachers who are new to online courses. Something I always find frustrating is the lighting during conferences or meetings. I believe these aspects are really an eye opener for all of us to make us be better.

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By: Karen Duque.

I found the video very interesting. One thing that I am already implementing and will continue to implement is engaging body language, because I agree with what Bridget said. I really feel that body language makes everything much more engaging. I like to use a lot of facial expressions, move my hands while speaking. However, something I had not really considered before is good lighting. If students cannot clearly see my gestures, it becomes harder for them to connect with me and with what I am saying or the feedback I am giving. That is something I will definitely consider much more from now on.

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Santiago Muñoz Agudelo: One tip from the video that I found very useful is teaching in a standing position. Standing while teaching can help the teacher appear more energetic and dynamic during the lesson. It also allows for more natural gestures and body language, which can help students understand explanations more easily and stay engaged in the class.

I would like to organize my teaching space so I can stand comfortably while teaching, with the camera positioned to clearly show my upper body and movements. This can make the virtual class feel more interactive and help students feel more connected to the teacher.

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Juan Pablo Valencia: After watching the video and thinking about the ideas from the pre-discussion, one change I would definitely try is standing up during my online classes instead of sitting. I realized that standing can help me project more energy and use my body language more naturally, which could make my explanations clearer and the class feel more dynamic. When I’m standing, it’s easier to gesture, move a little, and show enthusiasm, and I think students can feel that through the screen. I would also adjust my camera so students can see more of my upper body while keeping good lighting on my face, because facial expressions and gestures really help create a stronger emotional connection. Overall, these small adjustments could make the class feel more lively and help students stay more engaged.

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First, I would organize my background so it looks clean and simple. I would remove distractions and maybe add a small educational poster or visual material that supports the lesson. This could help students focus better and understand the topic more clearly.

Second, I would improve the lighting and camera position so my face is clearly visible. Good lighting can help students see my facial expressions, which is important for communication and emotional connection.

Finally, I would try to use more gestures, eye contact with the camera, and interactive materials such as slides or images. These small details can make the class more engaging and help students feel more connected and comfortable during online lessons.

-Adriana Ricard

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I consider a standing desk as a crucial strategia in order to deal with our body language and specially when we are exhausted, this is something I had never imagined about to improve my teaching practice, so for sure it will be included in my online clases. On the other hand, lighting is a paramount issue we need to consider when setting out working space, I need to make online classes as real as possible for my students, I mean make them feel as close to me as a face to face one

(D.G.G)

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Sitting in front of a laptop was one of the shocks I experienced when I started teaching online, so I decided to create a standing desk. Once I did that, I felt more comfortable and active, as if I were teaching a face-to-face class, but through the screen and wearing headphones.

On the other hand, I always maintain a positive attitude and am very open to comments or suggestions that my students consider crucial. I have had the opportunity to teach some students both in person and virtually, and they notice that I am always energetic and willing to help them.

Yerson Mejía B

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I had never thought about using a standing desk. To be honest, this is the first time I have heard about it, but it looks very interesting. Taking this into consideration, I would like to start planning activities where not only I stand up, but my students do as well. For example, I could ask them to find an object in their house and describe it, go to the kitchen and describe the food they have, or complete other similar tasks that encourage movement and interaction during the class.

Another change I would make is improving my lighting. Sometimes I try to show my facial expressions clearly because I believe that when we teach English, body language plays a very important role in communication. Having better lighting would help my students see my expressions and gestures more clearly, which can make explanations easier to understand. According to recommendations for online teaching, proper lighting and a clear visual presence can improve students’ engagement and help them focus on the lesson.

Finally, I would continue working on creating a more dynamic and interactive environment. I think that encouraging students to participate actively, asking questions frequently, and including interactive tasks can strengthen the emotional connection between the teacher and the students, making the online class feel more natural and engaging. Interactive participation is essential because online lessons should not be a monologue but a two way interaction between teachers and students. -SEBASTIAN RAMIREZ

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Never had I considered teaching while standing because we have been conditioned to believe that whenever we are using a computer, we must be seated. It was great to hear Bridget speak because she opens up a world of possibilities for us. In my face-to-face classes, I tend to move around, gesture, and walk around the classroom, and the fact of having to remain seated in a virtual learning environment bothered me a little, that stillness that one believes is inherent to teaching an online class. However, thanks to this input, I believe I can make virtual classes much more dynamic and similar to face-to-face classes, where my body language also serves as a teaching tool.

María Mercedes Gómez Correa

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I had never considered teaching an online course from a standing position. My first thought was against it, but I like challenges and I don't like just discarding an idea without giving it a chance. I think I might try it out and see how it works. This might apparently bring many benefits; besides, that is the way I teach when I am in a face-to-face class, so why not?

Andrés Carmona

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I would start by raising my camera to eye level and upgrading my lighting so students can clearly see my facial expressions and mouth movements, which is essential for them to pick up on pronunciation nuances. To improve audio clarity, I'd use my trustworthy headset to block out background noise and ensure my voice sounds natural rather than tinny or distant. For engagement, I would stop using long slide decks and instead use short, three-minute video clips as conversation starters, followed immediately by small-group breakouts or live polls to keep the energy up. I’d also use a digital whiteboard to draw out concepts in real time, making the lesson feel more spontaneous and less like a recorded lecture. I'd also make a point to use their names and reference specific things they’ve told me in past weeks to show I’m actually listening, which helps bridge the gap created by the screen.

Santiago Oliver

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It's absolutely amazing to discover how our energy and postures as teachers actually influences the online classroom environment! In my case, I truly consider that the way my students perceive me, interiorizes the way they face the class. I think that teaching online is not only sitting down to speak and hear interactions, it includes a series of steps and natural components that can boost up the class to the definitive success. The tips were interesting - JOSE ENRIQUE SOTO

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The video is inspiring as we become more aware of the importance of posture and gestures. I haven´t yet used standing desks in my teaching but it´s definitely something worth implementing. Gestures and movement convey a strong impression of dynamism and enthusiasm. I also agree with implementing the use of the Colombo backdrop. I am usually careful to ensure proper lighting.

Nora L. Arroyave

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Naidys Farina López

I realized how much my physical presence really matters in an online class. One change I would definitely make is standing while I teach instead of sitting. When standing, my posture is better, my voice would sound stronger, and my energy would feel more natural. I think that kind of energy helps students stay engaged. I would also pay more attention to how I speak and how I come across on camera. Smiling more, using simple hand gestures, and changing my tone when something is important can make the lesson feel more natural and engaging. Little things like that can help students understand better and feel more connected.

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Jackie Loaiza:

Body language is crucial in helping our students connect more with English and with our explanations, so I will be more mindful of this aspect. I also loved the DIY standing desk ideas, as being more active while teaching can be very beneficial. I will try to implement these tips the next time I am assigned an online course.

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Gloria Valencia

These tips are really helpful for improving my online classes. Paying attention to posture is paramount since this simple thing can energize students and draw their attention. Standing up when possible sounds fun, eventhough , I had never considered it. Good tips to create a more dynamic learning environment.

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PAULINA GALLEGO

Honestly, I hadn't really thought about this before, because I was more focused on my lesson content than on my posture or setup. But after watching the video, I realized that small things like teaching while standing, improving lighting, and adjusting my camera can make my explanations clearer, my classes more engaging, and help me connect better with my students.

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I hadn't considered before teaching a virtual class while standing instead of sitting. However, after watching Professor Green's video, my perspective has shifted, and it seems feasible for me. Maria Clemencia Sánchez

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The video shared some very interesting tips about the online teaching environment. I´ve never taught online standing up before, but it seems like a very useful and practical strategy!

Cristina Trujillo.

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Juan Carlos Ayerbe Martínez.

All the tips suggested in the video are valid

and useful when teaching online. About teaching standing up: I have never tried, but I would like to do it because it will help my back and, at the same time, feel like a break.

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Maria Camila Usuga.

I really liked the tips provided on the video. I would practice teaching while standing since I believe in the effectiviness that it could have. Besides, this can also be an opportunity for students to keep their attention for a long time and it can be useful as a brain break.

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I think the recommendations are very good. I always try to maintain good lighting so that students can see my face, and I use appropriate backgrounds. But I had never thought about teaching an online class standing up; it would be good to try that. I tend to use gestures and show my hands, but not enough.

Tatiana Ramírez G.

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Stefania Escobar Usuga:

First, for clarity, I would use simpler slides, give clearer instructions, and summarize key points at the end of each activity.

Second, for engagement, I would include more interactive tasks like polls, short discussions, and chat questions to keep students active.

Finally, to improve emotional connection, I would greet students by name, show more enthusiasm, and give positive feedback to create a supportive environment.

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Honestly, I had never really considered teaching online while standing. I can definitely see how it could be very effective for certain moments, especially activities that require higher energy and engagement.

Standing allows you to move more naturally and use your body language in a more intentional way. This can be particularly helpful with lower-level groups, where gestures and physical expression support comprehension. I also liked the idea of being more aware of arm movements within the small camera frame students can see. Unlike face-to-face classes, online teaching limits our physical presence, so we need to maximize that visible space.

I believe incorporating more movement and intentional gestures could improve clarity, maintain attention, and strengthen the emotional connection with students. When they perceive more energy and expressiveness from the teacher, they are more likely to feel motivated and involved in the learning process. -MANUELA ECHEVERRI

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LUISA MARIA RIVAS:

I think these are excellent tips. As online teachers, we tend to get really tired; our eyes hurt, our posture suffers, and we spend so much time sitting down. Sometimes classes can even feel a bit monotonous. We focus a lot on making our lessons more dynamic in terms of content and teaching strategies, but we often forget about ourselves.

We are the ones delivering the knowledge, and the way we explain things is essential!

I’m definitely going to apply these tips in my online classes!! I tend to gesture a lot, I speak with my whole body, and I know that doing this will give me more freedom during class instead of feeling trapped inside a little box on the screen.

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These are useful recommendations. I think about standing while teaching is a good strategy to keep the students´attention on the topic presented and it is a way to keep the motivation too. I feel more confident when I can move through the room and have interaction with students.

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Until today, I had never thought about teaching my online classes standing up. I think it’s a great idea to be more active and improve my body language. However, the space I have is quite small, so I’m not sure how easy it will be for me. I also need to improve the lighting in my workspace.

Ángela Botero Cabral

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While I agree with the ideas presented, there are some issues I have to fix if I want to deliver my classes standing. I use a headset with a cable. This works very well and the sound quality, both for me and students, is very good. In order to stand, I will have to change to some cordless devices. I've tried earplugs, but I find uncomfortable and not always reliable. While I deliver my classes sitting, I do include plenty of body language (i.e. hand gestures and facial expressions). I also vary my pitch, speed and volume. I think these add some dynamism to my sessions.

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I agree with the ideas presented. One point I had not previously considered was teaching while standing to help students stay more focused and engaged. I believe this change could improve my energy, clarity, and presence during lessons, which may also strengthen students’ attention and emotional connection. It is a strategy I plan to start implementing in my online classes.

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I had this conversation with Bridge, and she shared those strategies with me. These have improved my online classes a lot. I also used some books to create a standing desk. This helped me have better posture, and now the classes are not as tiring as before.

However, I still need to improve my lighting. Even though I have tried using different lamps, I believe I need to work more on this to make my online classes better.

Verónica Delgado Rojas

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Camilo Ch

Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences—it's been interesting to read different perspectives. After watching the video and reflecting on my own practice, here are some changes I'd like to make to my online teaching environment:

I want to experiment with standing while I teach. I usually sit, but I think standing could help me use more natural gestures and keep my energy level up throughout the session. That might also help students stay more engaged.

I also plan to adjust my lighting setup. Right now, my face can look a bit shadowy, and I think better lighting would help students see my expressions more clearly, which is important for building connection.

Another thing I'd like to work on is my voice modulation. I want to be more conscious of varying my tone and pace to keep things dynamic and hold students' attention, especially during longer explanations.

These are small changes, but I think they could make a real difference in how connected and engaged my students feel.

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As a normalista I learned the importance of movement as an essential part of teaching. Since we began implementing virtual classes, I have discovered that movement is a very useful tool to help my students understand what I am explaining, especially in the first-level courses.

I have always been a teacher who moves a lot—even when sitting down. Now, I imagine that by implementing new ideas such as teaching while standing, I will have even more opportunities to incorporate movement into my classes. This approach will allow me to stay dynamic and make my lessons more engaging and effective.

Elizabeth Garro

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I think this is innovative, and it’s worth trying and having the experience. I would consider sitting down if I feel tired.

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Interesting ideas. I haven't considered that standing for an online class could be so effective for students; it must be considered for future experiences. Regarding gestures, I totally agree that using them in our language makes communication more significant and valuable. Movement is more dynamic and engaging. Finally, talking about lighting, I think I should get a light ring right away!

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I had never really thought about standing in front of the computer to teach. it could work, but I believe a small laptop makes things more complicated. Sound is another factor to consider. If i speak with a moderate voice, I am no sure it would be heard clearly, so perhaps wireless headsets would be necessary. I would also need a spacious and a quiet environment. Sometimes, for example, your partner may be working in the next room, and that can make things difficult. Still, it's a very good strategy, and it's worth trying.

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Thanks for the tips! The video made me realize that posture, movement, and visibility are key in online classes. It makes a huge difference!! By standing, improving lighting, and using gestures, I can communicate more clearly and create a stronger connection with my students.

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Thank you very much for the ideas shared in the video. I will try to implement the standing desk, but I have a small problem: I need my glasses to see far away and I have to take them off to see up close—probably because of my age, haha. But overall, the ideas about lighting and the camera background are great.

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I would say one of the most important things is to conduct the class in a quiet, calm environment. Lighting is also crucial so that students can see you clearly. And of course, the background gives a personal touch to your English lesson.

Edna.

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Before beginning my online classes, I always pay special attention to my atmosphere. I take care of details, such as lights, especially natural ones. I also take into account all the elements of electronic devices, paper, pen, and all this staff. It gives me more confidence when I interact with the students. I agree with all these recommendations. They are essential to have a successful and dynamic class.

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I think I'll make classes more diverse by adding some moments in my standing desk a.k.a. bookshelf to feel more like in the on site classroom.

As it shows in the picture this is my setting. I also have a ring light for the lighting. Let's try some new things in this new year.