Formative and summative evalaution are two levels usually used in the academic environment. Formative precedes summative and involves one-on-one trials, as well as small group trials. In both of these trials, the participants are representative of the target student population. Summative evaluation involves running the course the way it was intended with actual students, and obtaining feedback through course evaluations. This is what typical ISD models recommend.

Students have a false perception that online courses are much easier than traditional in class courses; how can instructors communicate to students the need for them to spend substantial time participaing in each online course?

Online discussions are revealing because it provide students the opportunity to provide their perspective on an overarching topic.

For every online course there is a actual course taught at the school you are representing Ofetentimes, I look at what is being taught in the "brick and mortar" class and translate that content to the online class.

I have found that most students learn faster with the help of visual aids.

When introducing myself it usually takes me two to three class sessions to remember student names but I usally make little notes on post-its to help me remember their names.

In my experience I have found that being prepared before class makes the class session smoother for myself as well as my students. Reading all necessary materials helps you to be more confident when it comes to answering questions that students needs answers too.

As an instructor some techniques we can use to engage students when teaching topics which may require more technical aptitude?