Anneli Beronius Haake: Online Distance + Online Intimacy

Full Title: Online distance + online intimacy – an interesting paradox of teaching online

In March 2020, as teachers scrambled to set up their classrooms online, social media forums overflowed with questions about online learning technology. I’ve been teaching Swedish online for over 15 years, and while IT is an important part of my toolbox, I wanted to share another perspective: the close relationships you form with students, especially if you’re teaching one-to-one online. This might sound like a paradox, given that you’re not in the same room as your student.

Firstly, the one-to-one environment enables an intense focus on your student. I find myself thinking of them outside of our lessons, wondering how their work meeting went and missing them when they’re on holiday. Secondly, the online environment creates a personal space where you catch glimpses of their everyday life (and they of mine). I’ve spoken to people while they have been travelling, from cafés, or just out on a walk. I’ve ‘met’ partners, parents, children, work colleagues and pets. Thirdly, the combination of closeness and distance creates an interesting paradox. You as an online teacher represent a safe space, where students can talk about things they wouldn’t otherwise share. You’re a ‘safe’ space, as you only exist via computer.

One might say this means there’s a lack of hierarchy between teacher and student, and some teachers feel uncomfortable with this kind of intimacy with students. In my 15+ years of experience, this is nothing to be afraid of. It’s one of the most rewarding aspects of teaching and learning online.

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Видео Anneli Beronius Haake: Online Distance + Online Intimacy канала Polyglot Conference