I learned that while Gen Z students may have exposure to the internet and social media, that does not equate to having the skills to navigate the online classroom. A professor should not assume that Gen Z students do not need help with any of the online components of a class.
Students come from different backgrounds and considering their generation may improve communication with each individual. Guidelines for establishing an online community were described as well as the skills needed for both students and teachers to be successful. Online learning is not for everyone, so students need to be aware of what it takes to succeed before committing to a course.
From this module, I've learned the critical importance of establishing clear guidelines and effective patterns of communication in online education. Understanding the various types of communication that need to be managed—such as content-related, process-related, and feedback—has underscored the need for structured approaches to ensure clarity and engagement among students and instructors alike.
I intend to apply these insights by developing a robust communication strategy in my teaching practice. This will involve creating clear guidelines or a communication code of conduct that sets expectations for interactions within the course. I also plan to implement regular opportunities for formative feedback from students to continuously improve the course delivery and content. By fostering a supportive and communicative environment, I aim to enhance learning outcomes and overall student satisfaction in my online courses.
I have learned the importance of communication between the instructor and the students, in addition to how to manage this communication model, in the same way, knowing not only the expectations of the students regarding what they expect from the course but also that it is necessary to know their generation to personalize treatment and communication, finally the importance of managing rubrics as evaluation tools and as means of communication between instructors and teachers. I will put many of these contributions into practice in my online courses.
Provide communication guidelines in the syllabus
In my experience of teaching online, online presence is very important. Responding to student introductions, being active in the participation forms and posting announcements regularly make students feel like you are present and ready to help them and engaged with the class. Some students have never learned in an online environment and this helps bridge the gap between their brick and mortar experience and online learning.
The most important thing I learned from this module is the need to communicate differently based on generational differences. What works for one generation of students may not work for others. As a Professor, it is important to vary your communication style based on the needs of your students.
I was surprised to find that the millennial start in 1977- I thought it started in the mid 80s
I so appreciate being able to gain more knowledge about this area when it comes to engaging with students within an online setting.
Clear boundaries. Miscommunication will happen. AND different generations communicate differently.
It is important for me to understand that students in different age groups may communicate differently. It will be important for me to make sure all students are participating and that the rules for participating are clear.
Encouraging students to communicate online with civility involves fostering a respectful digital environment. I emphasize the importance of thoughtful expression, active listening, and constructive feedback. It's crucial to promote inclusive language and discourage any form of cyberbullying.
I am hoping to utilize some of the things I've learned here to encourage more open communication and exchange of ideas among my students in the virtual discussions we have. It's inspired me to really think about ways to subtly make them feel more comfortable sharing their insights and point of view through modeling good communication tactics a bit more in my interactions with them.
Key part of the communication process is to know which verbal and physical language use according to the topics and the team that we are introducing to the course. Communication skills are the key.
Communicating as clearly as possible will enable students' success within the course's engagement process and in terms of teamwork.
Be aware of the generations within your classroom and their communication styles. Again, make sure communication policies are upfront and concise. Help to encourage participation by participating when needed, but also allow for students to self learn and help their peers as well.
Get to know different methods of communication between generations to clarify any misunderstandings.
Never assume the student is okay. Too much communication is better than not enough.
The different style of learning of each generation including through technology.
Learned about the different communication styles for each generation.
