Videoconferencing platforms have become an essential part of K–12 education during the coronavirus pandemic. With many schools continuing remote learning through the fall, maintaining connections among students, parents and educators is even more crucial.

According to a Phi Delta Kappa International survey conducted this spring, 70 percent of high school students said increased communication would make them feel more connected to their peers and teachers during remote learning; 19 percent said video chats would help them feel that way.

Teachers also use videoconferencing to facilitate synchronous learning — education that happens in real time. With synchronous learning, students can feel a stronger sense of collaboration and community and stay more engaged in their learning despite missing in-person interactions.