I learned about strategies for supporting participation in asynchronous discussions. I've always had an issue with typed questions and responses due to the fact that emotions are typically not conveyed well, or are often misinterpreted. I would use the strategy of applying color, text properties and possibly emoticons to properly convey the intent of posts and replies. I think I would also include this in a netiquette lesson for students to set procedures for asynchronous posts and responses.
Yes. I am beginning to realize the complexity of running an online course. Engaging students in positive ways so students may feel connected to one another is multi-faceted. Just as in in classroom instruction if students are not connected to the course , the instructor and the other students, learning will be impeded.
The instructor should engage in extensive preplanning the lesson plan to assure the learning of every student despite differences in styles, levels of understanding, participation and more.
As the lesson indicates, asynchronous meetings seem to have much larger application in most settings. I think that using a combination of the two could be effective, given the appropriate type of group. This is something the instructor needs to evaluate ahead of time to enable them to consider the dynamic of the group (location, number, etc.).
Ihave taught my whole career with face to face classes and this way will definetly make me need to rethink how to deliver the content.
Synchronous and asynchronous Reply to Elizabeth Kinney's post:I agree that understanding the difference between these two learning styles, as well as setting discussion guidelines makes for a more engaging and robust discussion.
Submitted by: Marilyn Renfroe
This is critical in f-2-f and I learned that it is importan to provide feedback on a timely basis when delivering online learning. Additionally, teachers, should word their feedback in such a way that they build confidence within learners and encourage them to continue to pursue the objectives of the course. I will work on scripting out feedback to ensure that I offer constructive criticism.
Feedback, feedback, feedback.
Plan discussions, allow time for participation, and provide solid, effective feedback.
I thought it was interesting that there are different learning styles and discussion styles in an online classroom. I like the discussion approaches and how we can use them in different classroom settings.
I discovered the terms for the discussions I'm having with my students at this time - asynchronous and synchronous. There are "rules" and tips for both types of communication. Concerned about my "avoidant" students - whether online or in the classroom, they do very little if anything toward their education.
I was not aware of how the concept of asynchronous discussions was so valuable to the learning process in the online classroom environment. Written communication without immediate time constraints can allow the students to put more thought into their responses to classroom assignments; therefore, enhancing students' analytical and critical thinking skills. Students can also learn from each other by reviewing each others' responses. It seems like asynchronous discussions could also encourage greater student participation.
Knowing the difference in the types of meetings helps to manage a class discussion. Synchronous and asynchronous meetings have benefits for the learner when done correctly.
I feel like I would have a more engagement from my ELA learners than a traditional class. They are generally very excited to learn and participate.
I was reminded of the importance of focusing on problematic learners (avoidant, competitive, dependent), although I would like to hear about more strategies for each. I was also reminded of the need to ask students for feedback regularly.
The discussion board is a vital learning experience. Through feedback, whether positive or constructive criticism, the student is encouraged to continue to engage in the leanring process.
Fostering active participation in both synchronous and asynchronous class discussion is a must for all educators to keep the learners engage. Another way to capture the students' interest or attention is the way we convey the information or message through verbal or non-verbal cues that reflects our emotion, agreement or disagreement.
There are pros and cons of asynchronous and synchronous learning methods and the better the teacher is in knowing these methods and recognizing it in real time benefits the learners in the end, creating a better learning environment.
Knowing the difference between synchronous and asynchronous was important, but more importantly knowing WHY aynchronous was recommended was insightful to me. Using the students preferred name in the response is important. It makes the students feel valued and that they teacher cares.
I'm glad that I have learned more about the differences between synchronous and asynchronous methods of the delivery in online course setting. Thank you.
I learned that in an online forum it is more beneficial to have asynchronous discussions because more students are able to participate and express their opinions. I love the idea of giving a conversation prompt to begin an asynchronous discussion in my class as I feel it will give students who are apprehensive or take longer to process information time to reflect and really think about what they want to say before they post.
