Examples of good and bad practice

Transferring traditional classroom methods to the online space without adapting them to the digital context can lead to ethical issues. Students often find themselves in unequal access situations, and unadapted teaching formats increase inequality and reduce engagement. This segment analyzes why such an approach is problematic and how to improve it.

Example of bad practice:

One of the common problems in online education is when teachers literally transfer methods from the physical classroom to the virtual environment, without considering its specificities. For example, holding several hours of face-to-face lectures via videoconference can be not only inefficient, but also ethically problematic. Students in an online environment often do not have the same technical conditions: some have poor internet, others do not have a quiet space to work, and still others have to combine classes with family or work obligations. Imposing the same patterns as in a physical classroom can put students in an unequal position, thus violating the principles of fairness and inclusiveness.

Example of good practice:

Teachers who adapt methods to the online environment, such as using shorter and more focused lessons, combining synchronous and asynchronous activities, and offering flexible forms of participation, demonstrate ethical responsibility towards students. In this way, they respect different learning contexts and ensure that no one is discriminated against due to technical or personal conditions.

How to avoid/mitigate such a situation:

To avoid this ethical problem, it is necessary to start from the principle of equal opportunities. Teaching should be designed so that students have multiple ways to access content and participate in activities. This may include recorded materials available on demand, additional resources for those who cannot participate in person, or the possibility of submitting assignments in flexible deadlines. In this way, the pedagogical approach does not copy the limitations of the physical classroom, but uses the potential of the digital environment to create a more equitable and inclusive educational experience.