With online education becoming a staple in today’s learning environment, keeping students motivated and engaged is essential. An eLearning Industry study reports 70% of students said they were more motivated when their efforts were recognized through rewards.
Virtual prizes for students offer a dynamic solution to this challenge. They not only recognize student achievements but also add a fun element to learning, encouraging online students to stay committed and enthusiastic. These rewards are effective for students at all levels—elementary, middle school and high school.
Here, we explore 10 innovative virtual rewards that can help you enhance your virtual teaching skills and keep your online students engaged.
1. Digital badges
Digital badges are visual representations of accomplishments, skills, or competencies that students have earned. They act as a digital version of traditional awards like certificates and ribbons, but with added flexibility and interactivity. These visual markers can represent various achievements, such as completing a module, scoring high on a test, or demonstrating exceptional participation in class discussions.
Platforms like ClassDojo and Badgr offer customizable badge systems that can be tailored to fit your course and grade level requirements. Once earned, these badges can be displayed on students’ profiles within the learning management system, on digital portfolios, or even shared on social media to showcase their achievements. Additionally, incorporating digital stickers and printable templates can make these badges even more engaging for the entire class.
2. Virtual certificates
Awarding virtual certificates at the end of a course or after completing significant milestones can give students a sense of accomplishment. They can be customized with the student’s name, the specific achievement, the date, and even digital signatures.
These certificates offer versatility in how they can be used and shared. Students can share them on social media platforms to showcase their achievements or add them to digital portfolios, which are often used for college applications, job interviews, or other professional endeavors, providing tangible proof of their hard work and dedication.
To make the reward system even more enticing, consider including additional elements such as a homework pass or freebie.
3. Interactive leaderboards
Leaderboards tap into students’ competitive spirit by showing their progress relative to their peers. This can be particularly motivating when used for activities like quizzes, homework assignments, or participation points. This approach can benefit both individual students and the whole class.
Tools like Kahoot! and Quizizz incorporate leaderboards seamlessly into their platforms, making them excellent classroom management tools.
4. Personalized feedback videos
Personalized feedback videos are short, individualized video messages created by teachers to provide students with specific feedback on their work. Taking the time to create these videos is an excellent way to connect with your students individually. In these videos, you can highlight their strengths, address areas for improvement, and offer constructive feedback in a more personal and engaging format compared to written comments.
This approach makes your students feel valued and appreciated, as it demonstrates that you have taken the time to focus on their unique progress and needs. Personalized feedback videos work well as part of a broader class rewards system, complementing other incentives like digital badges or virtual certificates to keep students motivated and engaged.
5. Virtual field trips
Organizing virtual field trips to museums, historical sites, or scientific institutions related to your course material is an innovative way to reward your students. These virtual field trips serve as a form of virtual reward by providing students with enriching, immersive learning experiences that break the monotony of regular lessons.
By incorporating these trips into your lesson plans, you can increase student engagement and enthusiasm for the subject matter. Virtual field trips can be used as a reward for completing specific tasks, showing good behavior, or achieving high performance in class activities.
Many organizations, such as the Smithsonian Institution and NASA, offer virtual tours that can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection.
6. E-gift cards
Rewarding students with e-gift cards for their favorite online stores or streaming services can be a great incentive. This practical reward can be used to purchase books, supplies, or even entertainment, making it a versatile option.
7. Virtual lunch with the teacher
Offer students the chance to have a virtual lunch with you. This can take place via Zoom, Google Meet or other video conferencing tools, providing an informal setting where they can ask questions, discuss topics of interest, or simply get to know you better. It’s a great way to build rapport and foster a stronger teacher-student connection.
For a fun twist, consider hosting a virtual dance party or brain break activity during these sessions.
8. Exclusive content access
Provide students with access to exclusive content, which can include advanced lessons, bonus materials, or behind-the-scenes looks at upcoming modules. By offering these special resources, you can make students feel like they are part of an elite group, enhancing their learning experience and making the educational journey more exciting.
Exclusive content can be a powerful motivator, encouraging students to strive for excellence so they can unlock these unique opportunities. It also provides additional resources for those who are eager to delve deeper into the subject matter, fostering a culture of curiosity and higher-level discussions within the class.
9. Gamified learning experiences
Incorporate game-based elements into your lessons, such as quests, challenges and rewards for completing levels. Gamified learning transforms the educational experience into an interactive adventure, making it more engaging and enjoyable for students.
By integrating gamified elements, you can create a sense of excitement and competition in the classroom. Students can work individually or collaboratively to achieve goals, earn points and unlock new levels. This approach not only motivates students to stay focused and participate actively but also fosters teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Platforms like Classcraft allow you to gamify the learning process, enabling students to embark on quests, overcome challenges and earn rewards as they progress through the curriculum. Classroom management apps like ClassDojo, Kahoot!, Quizizz and Seesaw also seamlessly incorporate gamified elements into your curriculum.
10. Public recognition
Recognize students’ efforts and achievements publicly during virtual class meetings or through a class newsletter. Public recognition can boost students’ confidence and motivate them to continue performing well. Highlighting students’ successes in front of the entire class reinforces positive behavior and fosters a supportive learning community.
Conclusion
By integrating these innovative virtual incentives for students into your online teaching strategy, you can create an engaging and motivating learning environment. Leveraging digital tools and gamified elements not only acknowledges students’ hard work but also adds variety and excitement to the virtual classroom. This approach is crucial for enhancing student engagement and building a great virtual learning environment. Ultimately, it makes learning a more rewarding and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Elevate your online learning environment with professional development for K–12 teachers
As you explore new ways to enhance your online teaching and boost student engagement, it can feel overwhelming to navigate all the digital tools and strategies available. That’s where ASU Prep Global comes in.
We’re here to support you with expert-led professional development and training designed specifically for educators like you. Whether you’re looking for flexible online courses or hands-on training, we’ve got options that fit your schedule, including our self-paced course Thriving as a Digital Teacher. Let us help you confidently integrate effective digital strategies into your virtual classroom.
ASU Prep Global partners with other K–12 schools to build new models of educational success, embed early college experiences and provide access to the latest innovative technologies, digital courseware and professional development. We’re more than a curriculum provider—we’re an innovation partner to top schools and school districts.
We help our partners create high-impact, high-quality digital education that meets the unique needs of their learners and staff. We’re passionate about partnering with school leaders to help innovate learning for K–12 students and educators through Arizona State University-led research, proven effective learning practices and industry-leading online education technology.
10 innovative virtual rewards for your online students FAQs
How do you reward students virtually?
In an online classroom, a teacher can reward students through various digital rewards that acknowledge their achievements and efforts. Consider using e-certificates, digital badges, or points that students can accumulate and exchange for privileges like extra credit or homework passes.
You can also highlight student accomplishments in morning meetings or on a class website to publicly recognize their hard work throughout the entire school year. These classroom rewards can help maintain motivation and create a sense of accomplishment.
How can I motivate online learners?
Motivating online learners in a distance learning environment requires a combination of engaging content and interactive activities. Incorporate multimedia elements such as videos, quizzes and discussion boards to keep lessons dynamic. Regularly provide positive feedback and use digital rewards to acknowledge students’ efforts and progress. Setting clear goals and milestones can also help students stay focused and motivated. Building a supportive online community where students feel connected to their peers and instructor is essential for sustained engagement.
What are some effective virtual reward ideas for student engagement and motivation in online classes?
Effective virtual reward ideas for student engagement and motivation in online classes include:
- Digital badges: Award badges for completing assignments, participating in discussions, or achieving high scores on tests.
- E-certificates: Provide certificates for exceptional performance, attendance, or improvement.
- Points system: Implement a points system where students can earn points for various activities and redeem them for classroom rewards like extra credit or a digital homework pass.
- Public recognition: Create a “Student of the Week” feature on your class website or during virtual meetings to highlight outstanding work.
Virtual parties: Host virtual celebrations or game days as a reward for reaching classwide goals or milestones.