I learned ruberics are a clear way to assess students. They can be used for all areas of the class - discussion board, projects, assignments. I would apply them to every assignment  in class so that there are clear expectations and goals to work towards. 

I learned about the elements that must be part of online communication. Alpplication of these elements (courteous, respectful, no criticizing, be clear, concise, and simple, etc) will make the online classroom a friendly enviromnet where students will feel more comfortable participating.  

I learned the instructor has the responsibility to establish and monitor online communications. The instructor must set the tone, give guidelines, enforce those guidelines, praise when they are followed and correct when they are broken. The instructor must ensure that the students understand and follow all of the guidelines for the class. 

I learned that the communication method a teacher uses can have a big impact on how the student learns and communicates. If the communication method is ineffective, students may feel frustrated and have difficulties on top of the material they are learning for the class. I think its a great idea to ask for feed back during the class so that the instructor can make adjustments as needed to eliviate any frustrations. I also like the idea of the teacher reaching out to students by phone to begin a rapport with the students and make them feel like part of… >>>