I learned how important is to organize the course content and to choose the method that better fots my style.
I learned the advantages and disadvantages of sychronous and asynchronous methods of delivery. I will use these delivery methods in developing as well as using these methods to better assist my students lerarning.
It is good to see that front loading a course is an option. I have always done this because I felt it provided a clear outline of student expectation.
I find that a blend of both synchronous and Asynchronous learning is best, but to make sure in the begining that we effectively communicate and check for understanding of all the components in an effective pattern of teaching.
Currently our classes that were pushed online due to Covid are being held synchronously, however, the potential for synchronous work has been very helpful when students have run into changing work schedules and family needs during this complex time. It is clear though, that if I were to actually purposefully offer the class as an asynchronous class, I would have to modify it with different assignments and content presentation to ensure that the students engage asynchronously with the material to the same extent they do in my synchronous class.
The key thing that I hace learned is that students have to be able to acccess information easily through out the course . The course goals and student responsiblities need to be explained and followed throughout the course. I think this will cause the student to be more likly to complete assignments to maintain learning.
determine what is best action either syncronus or asyncronus and comminication is most important
I think that each has a benefit and this is why I clearly set my office hours. See, the synchronous learning is when we hold classes and are able to discuss and interact as a group. The discussions allow for students to interact as they are able to. Then I also allow for scheduled sessions of synchronous learning with students if they need extra assistance on a topic (indivudally or in groups depending on need and availability).
Presenting the course content should include synchronous and asynchronous learning. Whether or not you are using both types your content should be organized with well defined guidelines.
Instructors must make assessments of which form of online learning is appropriate.
Make sure tudents understand how each component is a part of the designed pattern which leads to academic success and achieving learning outcomes. The syllabus and LMS are key components in communicating several of these components. Communication is the key.
Its all about communication
I learned that usiing a centralized LMS to post content, submit assignments and conduct discussion is important for the success of a course. Also, I have learned about the advantages and disadvantages of synchronous and asynchronous learing environments. I think that a combination of both is the best for learning outcomes.
I like the creation of a FAQ's wiki on my page. This would be greatly helpful and I'm incorporating it.
Communication and organization are key to any learning environment. However, for an asynchronous environment clear and meaningful organization becomes crucial to avoid roadblocks to student success.
Asynch vs. Synch.......they each have a reason for use. It is up to the instructor to identify which forum is better fo the content they wish to deliver. Some of the criteria may be that Synch is required for daily F2F through video class online. Where as a Asynch is an any time delivery method for the student to pick when they are available, but also requires the student to be more self paced.
I definitely like the synchronous learning environment for the courses I teach. Clinical skills really are not designed to be taught virtually so having all my students available to me at a specific time is important for their success.
It is important to think about how to organize the online portion of your classroom as much as you do the layout of your physical classroom. You need to have clear expectations and proceedures. These will need to be communicated to the students. Consistancy is key. Instructional reminders or "how to" videos/ recordings will help. Also, a FAQ board/page for the repetitive tasks so students can check there first if they forget how to do something.
One course can effectively utilize synchronous and asynchronous methods. Organization of the materials and accessibility are crucial to student success. I plan to use the FAQ Discussion Board concept as I like the idea that answers can be posted publicly by instructor and students.
Keeping a course well organized and consistent will help students know where to find information and understand what is expected of them in the course.
