Low-Cost Online Teaching Set-up for Teachers 2024

Low-Cost Online Teaching Set-up for Teachers

Online teaching offers unparalleled flexibility and access to a wide array of resources. The key to success lies in selecting the right tools and strategies to engage students. Low-Cost Online Teaching Set-up for Teachers effectively, start by choosing a reliable teaching platform like Zoom, Google Classroom, or Microsoft Teams, each offering unique features suitable for different teaching needs. Ensure you’re familiar with the platform’s functionalities to utilize its full potential. Next, incorporate smart class tools such as Kahoot! for interactive quizzes, and leverage online resources to enrich your curriculum. Remember, the key to a successful online class lies in engaging students through interactive content and maintaining clear communication.

A few Low-cost online teaching software

Low-cost software can be incredibly effective. Consider platforms that offer robust features like live video, collaboration tools, and integration with educational resources.

Google Classroom

A free educational management system that allows teachers to create classes, assign homework, and provide feedback to students

Google Classroom is a free web service developed by Google for schools that aims to simplify creating, distributing, and grading assignments. The platform is designed to streamline the process of sharing files between teachers and students, making it easy to collaborate, manage tasks, and communicate within an educational environment. Google Classroom integrates seamlessly with Google’s suite of productivity tools like Docs, Drive, and Calendar, offering a centralized place for classroom management. It’s part of Google’s Workspace for Education and offers a secure and easy-to-use solution for educators and students to connect and collaborate.

Google Classroom is the simplest and easiest workspace for education and instructors. It is preferred for its time-saving features and security.

Free version available to everyone:

• One-click switching (homework, student, or between classes)
• To keep track of student progress degrees. The option to transfer the relevant notes to OBS.
• For multiple classes, the option to prepare tasks, assignments, and tests.
• To be able to create a room or a classroom without any limits.
• The option of storing frequently used phrases in the comment bank.

In the paid version:

• To transfer educational technology tools and add-ons, you need to access Education Plus to access this feature.

Sign in to Google Classroom

You must log in with your Google (Gmail) account to use Google Classroom. If you don’t know how to log in, some solutions are listed below.

1. Go to the Google Workspace for Education > Classroom page and select Sign in to Classroom.
2. Sign in with Gmail and continue.
3. Start using Google Classroom in the new window that opens.

You can log in quickly with the “Google Classroom sign in” button link at the bottom.

Canva

An open-source learning management system for K-12 and higher education institutions. Canvas is a comprehensive learning management system (LMS) that supports online learning and teaching. It enables instructors to create and present online learning materials, assess student learning, and facilitate interactions among students. Canvas provides tools for assignments, grading, discussion forums, and quizzes, along with the integration of multimedia content. It’s designed to enhance the educational experience for both teachers and students, offering a flexible and intuitive interface. Canvas also allows for the integration of third-party apps, further expanding its capabilities to meet diverse learning needs.

The free version of Canva offers:

• Thousands of free templates.
• Access to a wide range of design types, from presentations to social media graphics.
• Collaboration features allowing team members to design together in real-time.
• Basic design tools for customizing templates, including font and color changes.
• Limited access to free stock photos and icons.
• Ability to upload and use your own images.
• Download options in various formats like PNG, JPEG, and PDF.

In the paid version:

• The paid version of Canva, known as Canva Pro, offers advanced features including a vast library of templates, images, and fonts;
• tools for branding such as logos, colors, and fonts;
• advanced photo editing capabilities like background removal;
• the Magic Resize tool for adapting designs to various formats; and the ability to save designs as templates.
• Canva Pro also provides team collaboration features, making it easier for groups to work together on projects.
• This subscription is aimed at professionals seeking more functionality and flexibility in their design work.

Sign in to Canva

1. To sign in to Canva, go to the Canva website and click the “Sign in” button.
2. You can sign in using your email, Google, Facebook, or Apple account.
3. If using email, enter your email address and password.
4. If it’s your first time, you might need to sign up instead by choosing “Sign up” and following the registration process.
5. Once signed in, you can start creating designs immediately.

Zoom

A web-based platform for teaching and conferencing that’s often used by teachers, speakers, and students for distance learning. Zoom is a cloud-based video conferencing service that allows users to virtually meet with others – either by video or audio-only or both, all while conducting live chats – and it enables users to record those sessions to view later. Over the years, Zoom has become an essential tool for remote work, distance education, and online social relations. Its features include HD video and audio, collaboration tools, the ability to host webinars, and large meetings with hundreds of participants.

The free version of Zoom offers:

• Unlimited 1-to-1 meetings.
• Group meetings with a 40-minute limit.
• Support for up to 100 participants.
• HD video and voice.
• Screen sharing and basic collaboration features.
• Limited Zoom backgrounds.
• Security features like password protection for meetings.

In the paid version:

The paid version of Zoom, known as Zoom Pro, offers additional features compared to the free version, including:

• Longer meeting durations beyond the 40-minute limit.
• Increased participant capacity, up to 1,000 with Large Meeting add-on.
• Cloud recording storage for meeting recordings.
• Advanced admin controls and reporting.
• Custom personal meeting ID.
• Option for Zoom Rooms and Zoom Webinar platforms.
• Integration with third-party applications and APIs for added functionalities.

For comprehensive details and the latest on offerings, visit the Zoom website.

To sign in to Canva:

1. Go to Canva website.
2. Click “Sign In”.
3. Choose sign-in method (email, Google, Facebook, Apple).
4. Enter credentials.
5. Verify (if needed).
6. Access Canva.

Dialpad

A VoIP for education solution that allows instructors and students to meet, text, chat, and connect online. Dialpad is a cloud-based business phone system that provides voice, video, and messaging services for companies of all sizes. It offers features such as call routing, voicemail, call recording, and integration with other business tools like G Suite, Salesforce, and Slack. Dialpad enables teams to communicate seamlessly across various devices, including desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. It’s designed to streamline communication, enhance productivity, and improve customer engagement for businesses operating in modern, digital environments.

The free version of Dialpad offers several key features:

• Basic Calling Features: Users can make and receive calls using the Dialpad app or desktop interface.
• Voicemail: Receive and manage voicemail messages directly within the Dialpad platform.
• Call Recording: Record and save calls for future reference or review.
• Internal Communication: Communicate with team members via messaging and chat functionalities.
• Mobile and Desktop Access: Access Dialpad across multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, and desktop computers.
• Integration: Integration with G Suite and Office 365 for streamlined workflows.
• Limited Participants: Limitations on the number of participants in meetings and calls.
• Usage Limits: Restrictions on call minutes and storage space for recordings.

Overall, the free version of Dialpad provides essential communication tools for small teams or individuals, but with limitations on features and usage.

In the paid version:

The paid version of Dialpad, known as Dialpad Talk, offers several additional features and benefits:

• Advanced Calling Features: Enhanced calling features such as call forwarding, transfer, and queuing.
• Unlimited Calling: Unlimited domestic calling within the supported countries.
• International Calling: Ability to make international calls at competitive rates.
• Custom Greetings: Customize voicemail greetings and call handling settings.
• 24/7 Support: Access to customer support services around the clock.
• Increased Participants: Support for larger meetings with more participants.
• Enhanced Integrations: Deeper integrations with CRM platforms like Salesforce and Zendesk.
• Analytics and Reporting: Detailed call analytics and reporting for better insights into call performance.
• Enhanced Security: Advanced security features such as encryption and multi-factor authentication.

Overall, Dialpad Talk provides businesses with a comprehensive communication solution, offering advanced features, unlimited calling, international calling capabilities, and enhanced support.

To sign in to Dialpad, follow these steps:

1. Visit Dialpad Website: Open your web browser and go to the Dialpad website.
2. Click “Sign In”: Look for the “Sign In” button on the homepage and click on it.
3. Enter Credentials: On the sign-in page, enter your username or email address and your password.
4. Click “Sign In”: After entering your credentials, click the “Sign In” button to proceed.
5. Access Dashboard: Once authenticated, you’ll be directed to your Dialpad dashboard where you can access your account settings, messages, calls, and other features.

Ensure that you have the correct login credentials to sign in successfully. If you encounter any issues, you can use the “Forgot Password” option to reset your password or contact Dialpad support for assistance.

Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams is a collaboration platform that combines workplace chat, video meetings, file storage, and application integration. It provides a centralized hub for teamwork within Office 365, enabling users to communicate and collaborate seamlessly across different devices and locations.

The free version of Microsoft Teams offers several key features:

• Unlimited Chat and Messaging
• Audio and Video Calling
• Integration with Office 365 Apps
• File Sharing and Collaboration
• Guest Access
• Channel Meetings
• Customizable Tabs
• Mobile and Desktop Apps
• Security and Compliance
• Up to 500,000 Users

Overall, the free version of Microsoft Teams provides essential collaboration tools for communication, file sharing, and teamwork, making it a valuable platform for businesses and organizations looking to enhance productivity and connectivity.

The paid version of Microsoft Teams offers:

• Meetings with up to 300 participants and up to 30 hours in duration.
• 10 GB of cloud storage per user.
• 24/7 phone and web support.
• Access to Microsoft Whiteboard and additional collaborative apps.
• Live captions in over 30 languages, meeting recordings, and transcripts.
• Teams voice calling capabilities.

These features are designed for larger teams and organizations needing advanced collaboration tools, while the free version suits smaller teams or those just starting with collaboration software.

Signing in to Microsoft Teams:

Desktop

1. Launch Microsoft Teams from the Start menu on Windows or the Applications folder on Mac.
2. Enter your Microsoft 365 username and password to sign in.

Mobile

1. Tap the Teams icon on your device.
2. Sign in with your Microsoft 365 username and password.

Web

1. Visit Teams on the web.
2. Enter your email address or phone number, then your password or verification code to sign in.

If you’re new to Teams or don’t have a Microsoft account, you can create one using your email address or phone number through the Teams app or web page. After signing up, you can add personal or business accounts and switch between them within the app.

For further assistance or more detailed steps, you might want to check the official Microsoft support pages I found this information on: How to log in to Microsoft Teams, Sign in and get started with Teams, and Sign in, sign up, sign out, and add a new account in Microsoft Teams (free).

UpGrad

UpGrad is a prominent player in the online education sector, focused on offering a wide range of postgraduate programs, certifications, and degrees in various fields such as Data Science, Digital Marketing, Machine Learning, AI, and more. Their offerings are designed to cater to the needs of working professionals, aiming to bridge the gap between traditional education and the demands of the modern workplace.

In the free version

• UpGrad’s free courses aim to advance career-related skills at no cost.
• Courses cover Business Basics, Data Science, Marketing, Machine Learning, and Technology.
• They are self-paced, featuring cutting-edge content and live discussion forums.
• Successful completion awards a certificate.
• Designed with busy schedules in mind and in collaboration with industry experts.
• These courses are part of UpGrad’s initiative to provide accessible learning during uncertain times.
• No payment or credit/debit card details are required to access the courses.

UpGrad’s paid programs offer:

• Advanced degrees and professional certifications.
• Collaboration with top universities and industry leaders.
• Personalized mentorship and career support.
• Real-world projects and practical application focus.
• Networking opportunities with a global professional community.
• Comprehensive learning materials and interactive content.

For the most current and detailed information about their paid programs, directly visiting UpGrad’s website or contacting their support team would be best.

To sign in to UpGrad’s platform:

1. Navigate to the UpGrad website or open the app.
2. Click on the “Sign In” or “Login” button.
3. Enter your registered email address and password.
4. If prompted, complete any additional verification steps required.
5. Once verified, access the dashboard to start or continue your learning journey.

For specific guidance, including troubleshooting sign-in issues or creating an account, visit the UpGrad support or help section on their official website.

Udemy

Udemy is a popular online learning platform offering a vast range of courses across various categories like technology, business, personal development, and more. It’s designed for professional adults and students. Instructors worldwide create and upload their courses, which can include video lectures, written materials, quizzes, and interactive projects. Udemy provides opportunities for lifelong learning and skill development, with courses available on-demand, allowing learners to progress at their own pace.

Udemy’s free version offers:

• Access to a wide range of free courses across various categories.
• Learning from industry experts and educators worldwide.
• Opportunity to gain new skills or enhance existing ones without financial investment.
• Access to course materials like videos and readings included in free courses.
• Flexibility to learn at your own pace, on your schedule.

Udemy’s paid version offers:

• Access to a comprehensive library of premium courses across numerous fields.
• Certificates of completion for showcasing new skills on professional profiles.
• Interactive content including projects, quizzes, and exercises for hands-on learning.
• Lifetime access to purchased courses for continuous learning and reference.
• Regular updates to course materials by instructors to reflect the latest industry trends.
• Direct communication with instructors for personalized feedback and guidance.

To sign in to Udemy:

1. Go to the Udemy website or open the app.
2. Click on the “Sign In” button.
3. Enter your email address and password.
4. If you’ve signed up using an external account like Google or Facebook, choose that option.
5. Once your credentials are entered, you’ll be logged in and can access your courses.

Coursera

Coursera is an online learning platform offering courses, specializations, degrees, and professional certificates from universities and companies worldwide. It allows learners to access top-quality education, ranging from computer science to philosophy, and everything in between. Courses often include video lectures, peer-reviewed assignments, and community discussion forums. Coursera provides financial aid and free courses for learners who qualify, making education accessible to a broader audience.

Coursera’s free version offers:

• Access to a wide range of courses from universities and institutions around the world.
• Video lectures and some course materials without charge.
• The ability to audit courses for free, which includes watching videos and accessing readings.
• Limited access compared to the paid version, often excluding graded assignments and certificates.

Coursera’s paid version offers:

• Full access to courses, including graded assignments and exams.
• Certificates of completion for each course, specialization, or degree program completed.
• Specializations and Professional Certificates to help learners specialize in specific career skills.
• Access to degree programs in partnership with leading universities, offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees online.
• Subscription-based Coursera Plus, providing unlimited access to over 3,000 courses, specializations, and professional certificates.

To sign in to Coursera:

1. Visit the Coursera website.
2. Click on “Log In” at the top right corner.
3. Enter your email and password, or sign in with Google, Facebook, or Apple.
4. If you’re new, click “Join for Free” to create an account first.

Edureka

Edureka is an online learning platform focusing on IT and tech-related courses. It offers live, instructor-led sessions and certifications in various technologies and disciplines, including big data, cloud computing, AI, machine learning, blockchain, and more. Edureka aims to bridge the skills gap in the tech industry by providing comprehensive training and support, including 24/7 access to course materials and assistance.

Edureka does not provide any free learning.

In paid version

• Edureka’s paid version offers live, instructor-led sessions and certifications in tech disciplines like big data, AI, and cloud computing.
• It includes 24/7 support, lifetime access to course materials, and real-time project work for practical experience.
• The platform targets professionals aiming to upskill or reskill in the tech industry, ensuring interactive learning and immediate query resolution.

edX

EdX is an online learning platform offering university-level courses in a wide range of disciplines. It partners with prestigious universities and institutions worldwide to provide courses, professional certificates, and degree programs. EdX aims to make high-quality education accessible to anyone, anywhere, with options for both free and paid courses, allowing learners to gain new skills, earn certificates, and advance their careers.

EdX’s free version offers:

• Access to video lectures from top universities.
• Some course readings and materials without charge.
• The ability to audit courses for free, excluding graded assignments and certificates.
• A chance to expand knowledge across various subjects without financial commitment.

EdX’s paid version provides:

• Certificates of completion to showcase your achievement and skills on your resume or LinkedIn.
• Access to graded assignments and exams for a comprehensive learning experience.
• Specialized programs like Professional Certificates and MicroMasters® programs that offer a pathway to credit or a professional edge.
• Full degree programs from bachelor’s to master’s degrees in partnership with top universities.
• Enhanced interaction through more in-depth materials and peer assessments.

To sign in to edX:

1. Go to the edX website.
2. Click on “Sign In” at the top right corner.
3. Enter your email and password, or choose to sign in with a social account like Google, Facebook, or Apple.
4. After entering your details, click the sign-in button to access your dashboard and courses.

Smart Classes

• Incorporating interactive tools like Kahoot! for quizzes.
• Utilizing online resources and open educational resources (OER) to enhance learning.

Conclusion

Setting up an online class requires careful planning and the right tools. By choosing appropriate software and incorporating smart class strategies, educators can create enriching and effective online learning environments.

Read More –

Best Digital Board for Online Teaching | Digital Whiteboard for Teaching | Smart Board for Classroom – https://benchmarktechnomate.in/digital-board/

Benchmark 4k PTZ Camera – https://benchmarktechnomate.in/benchmark-4k-ptz-camera/

Best PTZ camera for live streaming – https://benchmarktechnomate.in/best-ptz-camera-for-live-streaming/