One consistent challenge that online instructors face is ensuring that students are engaged in course activities and feel connected with the instructor. This paper explores the role of synchronous Zoom meet-ups in enhancing student engagement in fully online courses. Grounded in the Community of Inquiry framework, the study investigates how real-time video interactions support social, cognitive, and teaching presence. Data were collected from undergraduate online courses that integrated two required Zoom sessions alongside asynchronous learning activities. Quantitative measures included course performance data and students’ ratings of engagement while qualitative insights were drawn from student reflections via survey. Findings indicate that structured Zoom meet-ups fostered increased participation, accountability, and sense of belonging, particularly when sessions incorporated active learning strategies such as collaborative problem solving and review of course assignments. Students reported that synchronous interactions with the instructor clarified expectations, reduced feelings of isolation, and supported deeper understanding of course assessments. However, challenges related to scheduling and cognitive load were also identified, underscoring the need for intentional design and flexibility. The study highlights the importance of clear facilitation, purposeful integration with asynchronous components, and inclusive practices such as flexibility in scheduling. Overall, the findings suggest that Zoom meet-ups, when thoughtfully designed, can serve as a mechanism for engaging online learners. Implications for practice include balancing structure with interaction, leveraging video presence to humanize instruction, and using synchronous sessions to complement rather than replicate asynchronous content. Future research should examine differential impacts across disciplines, class sizes, and learner demographics.

Authors:
Ravisha Mathur, San Jose State University, United States

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Ravisha Mathur is an associate professor and chair for the Department of Child and Adolescent Development (ChAD) in the Lurie College of Education at San Jose State University.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Monday Schedule

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