I have been teaching daily in 2 courses. 1st & 4th year.

Intro Organic and Synthesis of Pharmaceuticals.

Nothing fancy.

Writing using Notability on iPad Pro linked to MacBook Pro.

Live and recorded.

Showing pics. Places, people, scientists & food.

It is stressful (& lonely)

Mics muted. Video off.

Without faces, smiles, frowns, laughter, groans and blank or confused stares.

Like talking to someone in the dark, in another room.

Feedback of any kind takes on amplified meaning. A note from a student, comments in the chat, the hello, goodbye or https://abs.twimg.com/emoji/v2/... draggable="false" alt="👏" title="Applaus-Zeichen" aria-label="Emoji: Applaus-Zeichen">

I set up a zoom office call with a student.

Their rooms all look very much the same.

I asked about their time zone. They mentioned they were in Asia.

Whoa. It was 1pm in Toronto. I just finished lunch.

It was after midnight for them.

They were excited to chat in person.

I was dumbfounded & impressed.

I let them know we could start at 7 or 8am next time. A more reasonable hour.

Anyone who says young folks are not passionate about their education is dealing with different people than me.

I am proud to teach them & will try not to let them down.