Student engagement in the virtual classroom: Implications for overcoming conflict between instructors and students and creating collaborative virtual workspaces

ABSTRACT

COVID-19 changed education and classroom culture. As a result of the pandemic, educators modified curriculum and instruction in order to create virtual courses. Virtual learning can disrupt the communication process, provide students increased anonymity, and decrease the likelihood of self-disclosure. Therefore, it can be more challenging to develop and build relationships virtually. This chapter addresses changes in classroom culture as a result of transitioning from face-to-face to virtual education in this new era. It also presents the author's interpretations of (1) previous literature and (2) her personal experiences as a result of collecting data from undergraduate students in two communication courses during the Fall 2020 Semester. Results indicated that, in addition to teaching course content, it was the educator's responsibility to inspire a communication culture that fosters selfdisclosure, helps students build relationships, creates spaces for virtual conversations, and uses relatable technology. © 2022 Walter de Gruyter GmbH, Berlin/Boston. All rights reserved.