I found the descriptions of the various generations to be generalizations. I know they aren't meant to be harmful but it is something I try my best to avoid. I try not to generalize because it is often the case that people are unique and possess so many qualities and characteristics that distinguish them from others and those rare combinations make them standout. I did find useful to read about the qualities students need to possess to be successful in an online class. I hope to share this list with my students and coworkers.
One piece of this module to use moving forward are the strengths and weaknesses associated with the different generations. The student population of the instructors I work with might fall mostly within one generation, it will be helpful to consider the generations in terms of staff and developing professional learning opportunities for them online as well. One quote that stood out to me from this module is, "Communication within the online community is a vehicle for student engagement.” It seems simple and a given, but so necessary to keep in mind as instructors plan for the fall and beyond. This module reminded me of a quote by Heath and Heath in Switch, "...What looks like resistance is often a lack of clarity." Some of the struggles experienced might be issues with communication and interpretation of the communication itself not necessarily apathy or dis-interest as is sometimes an easy conclusion.
I learned that student come from all different kind of backgrounds and its up to the instuctor to try to keep them engaged with meaniful classwork. Communication is by far the most important thing in teaching. Instructors need to set rules and regulation and post them clearly in their syllabus.
misunderstanding may occur - but continue to have clear expectation
Coming into an educational setting be it tradional or vitural standards and expectations must be set,modeling, and clearly stated not to get students in trouble but to streer clear of trouble. More then once failure to communicate has exploded into negative choices and conseuences. From day one clarity has to be in place for success online or in seat.
Communication rules should be clearly stated in the syllabus. Students will be of various ages and that should be taken into account when communicating with students.
I teach first grade and since move of my communication is with their parents, I should be aware of the characteristics of their parents generations. I think most of my students' parents are Generation X or Y. It has taken me some time to get used to their grammar and spelling rules.
The communication code of conduct is a beneficial element to add
Each generation has strengths and weaknesses.
I learned to take into account that participates may be of different generations. Being in different generations bring different gaps in their learning styles, as well as understanding of technology. Instructors need to be consiterate of this.
Students also need to be self motivated, have an open mind, and understand teamwork and time management to be successful in an online course.
I think the most important aspect in online learning is communication. It is also important to know your students. Knowing the students within the course will help you make sure students receive the communication in a form that is best for them. If there is an age range of students from different generations, a group text may be able to be set up so that in addition to email information can be sent that way as well. It is also important to make sure that students are participating within the class. Communication that is effective would help with this.
Online classes are more difficult than the brick and mortar classes. With different generations involved in each class, there will be differences in the ability to use the communication tools.
You set the tone for communication be an example and encourage students to partipate and be active communicators
As an instructor we must clearly the communication code and the student must be able to comprehend the concepts. they must be proficient in comuunicating verbally and they must be able to write,in that same vain, we as instructors must modeled the same.
Show your students that you care with their e learning progress by sending them supportive emails and one on one chats.
Communication guidelines are essential.
I'm taking notes to improve my canvas environment for my students.
Time management and motivation are essential for student success in an online platform. Instructor feedback encouraging the student is crucial so they retain the sense of belonging that is felt within a traditional classroom structure.
I have been focused largely on the importance of the idea of communication in distance learning as my students are not allowed any internet access, and no technology or phone correspondence of any kind. I am wondering if there is still a way to create communication when everything is paper based distance learning. My students are all ages, so I am familiar with the differences in communication. As things are during COVID I am having a difficult time getting students to particpate in communication, and I think if there were a way to create more communication amongst the class it could make a big difference. With the adult learners I teach, the open-mindedness is probably there, but the self-discipline and self-motivation needed at the moment are lacking. Students are good communicators when they choose to be, and hopefully this will be one key motivator to bring back their participation and communication moving forward. Presently, we are just returning finally completion of and submission of assignments by generally self-motivated participants.
This module provides the reasons why students start an online course and "drop out" or withdraw. At one point they realize that the online course is not for everyone.
