Insights from a Year of Teaching SEO: My Journey So Far

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes.

Reaching the one-year mark as an online SEO tutor feels like both a milestone and a learning experience. As someone who has spent years optimising websites, teaching SEO seemed like a natural next step, but moving to a virtual classroom brought its own set of challenges and rewards.

This 7-week SEO course, part of NZIE’s digital marketing programme, aims to equip students with practical SEO skills and an extensive 12-month strategy they can implement immediately. The online format allows flexibility for students, but it also presents unique challenges – from maintaining engagement to adapting explanations for different skill levels.

It has made me appreciate the complexities of teaching even more, especially when it comes to creating a supportive learning environment. As I reflect on the year, I’m grateful for the opportunity to help others develop their SEO skills and for the lessons I’ve learned along the way. Here are some of the key insights I’ve gathered.

Key Takeaways:

1. Clear Communication Enhances Understanding and Confidence
   Repeating important concepts multiple times, setting clear expectations for tasks, and maintaining transparency about availability and deadlines are essential strategies to ensure learners feel supported and confident in their understanding.
2. Real-World Relevance Deepens Learning
   Demonstrating SEO principles in real-time, such as conducting live searches or examining website code, makes the subject matter more engaging and applicable, helping learners connect theory with practice.
3. Engagement Requires Creativity and Variety
   Incorporating diverse content formats like quizzes, live activities, and visual aids keeps learners engaged, enhances focus, and improves the quality of participation and outcomes.

 

Table of Contents

1. The Value of Patience
2. The Power of Clear Communication
3. Creating a Supportive Environment
4. Real-World Relevance Matters
5. Building Virtual Connections
6. Keeping Engagement Levels High
7. Using Visual Aids Effectively
8. Handling Tech Issues Gracefully
9. Providing Constructive Feedback

 

 

The Value of Patience

Patience is something I had already nurtured as a head of department, mentoring junior specialists in the nuances of SEO. Teaching a short online course, however, presents its own challenges. Some students struggle with concepts and are hesitant to ask questions in front of the group, while others have prior SEO knowledge and push for a faster pace. It’s clear that no single teaching style can cater to all levels simultaneously.

I’ve learned that staying online after class for one-on-one discussions, adapting my approach, and simply being patient with each student’s journey is crucial for everyone to reach the finish line together.

 

 

The Power of Clear Communication

SEO is a complex subject, and delivering it clearly is essential to students' comprehension and confidence.

I’ve always lived by the phrase: "Say it once, and it may be forgotten. Say it twice, and it might be remembered. Say it three times, and it will be understood."

I’ve applied this by repeating important concepts throughout the 7-week course, ensuring that all students, regardless of engagement level, have a chance to understand. I’ve also learned that clear communication extends beyond class content – setting expectations around my availability, marking timeframes, and weekly quizzes has been key to helping students feel confident in managing their learning.

 

 

Creating a Supportive Environment

A welcoming atmosphere is crucial to encouraging engagement and questions. I often remind students that there are no 'stupid' questions, fostering a space where they feel comfortable expressing their doubts. Breakout rooms have been especially helpful, allowing students to connect, share websites, and discuss their challenges with one another. This peer support has enriched the overall learning experience.

 

 

Real-World Relevance Matters

SEO is at its most impactful when students see it in action. I start from the basics, assuming that students are new to the topic, and provide context before diving into more complex material. By taking students through live searches, examining website code, and testing SEO techniques in real-time, I’ve found that practical engagement significantly deepens their understanding.

 

 

Building Virtual Connections

Building genuine connections online takes extra effort. I make it a point to greet each student by name, ask how they are, and remember their business details. Incorporating these personal touches into my teaching not only helps students feel seen but also makes lessons more relevant to their interests and needs.

 

 

Keeping Engagement Levels High

Maintaining focus in an online setting requires creativity. To keep students engaged, I’ve implemented diverse content formats such as quizzes, live activities, pre-class videos, and interactive post-class tasks. These strategies have not only improved engagement but have also led to a noticeable improvement in the quality of submitted coursework.

 

 

Using Visual Aids Effectively

Screens can be limiting, so I rely heavily on slides, diagrams, and infographics to bring lessons to life. Over time, I’ve learned that less is often more – simple slides with a few bullet points can be more effective than overcrowded visuals. I update slide content regularly to keep it fresh and ensure it provides the greatest possible impact.

 

 

Handling Tech Issues Gracefully

Technical difficulties are inevitable in an online environment. Having encountered many issues over the years, I’ve learned to maintain a calm and problem-solving attitude. Whether it's a lost connection, a glitchy platform, or a recording error, I approach these challenges with patience and flexibility. It’s never ideal, but there’s always a solution, even if it requires extra time.

 

 

Providing Constructive Feedback

With the introduction of weekly mini-tasks, I’ve had more opportunities to offer students constructive feedback throughout the course. I aim to provide clear, supportive, and actionable feedback, helping students improve and build confidence. Timely feedback has proven particularly effective, encouraging students to remain engaged and feel valued for their efforts.

 

As I look back on this year of teaching SEO online, I’m filled with a sense of gratitude and growth. I’ve come to understand the importance of patience, clear communication, and adaptability in creating a productive online classroom. The feedback from students has not only been encouraging but also a reminder of the value of engaging with learners on a personal level.

As I prepare for the upcoming term, I’m committed to further improving my teaching methods and supporting each student’s journey. It’s been a rewarding experience, and I look forward to another year of helping students unlock the potential of SEO in their careers.