Effective communication is one of the important things that students need to develop for an effective community of learners.
I like the idea of the virtual COP. We know that adult learners are more engaged and do better when able to apply their own experiences to the course content. If they can share those experiences and also get feedback from their peers in the process, this will help solidify their learning. Therefore I really like the idea of trying to implement a COP in my courses.
Motivation and time management are critical components of online learning. Instructors must cultivste an environment that encourages motivation and teaches students how to manage their time effectively. This is made possible through communication.
One of the best classes I ever took was not in college -- it was at a business school for computer programming. What I liked so much about the class is that we formed a community of practice (CoP). A good friend used to talk about her "cohort" in graduate school and this likewise was a CoP she is still close with today. As a teacher of general education classes, there's not much opportunity to form these long term CoPs, but I am intrigued by the idea of trying to do that within the context of a single course.
Nancy Tosh
I have students work on group projects which requires them to problem solve through colaboration. This also makes them work on comunication skills and how they apply to real world problems.
I learned what a Community of Practice ( CoP) is: a group of individuals who have similar tasks or goals for solving an authentic problem.
I also lezrned 8 Techniques for effective online communication
- Always use a descriptive subject line.
- Use appropriate tone.
- Use bulleted items to make messages more concise and to the point.
- Use spelling and grammar checks and review the message carefully before sending.
- Attach necessary documents.
- Use appropriate email address.
- If asking for a solution to a problem which is then provided by the instructor, respond not only noting they understand the solution, but also summarize the solution in their own words.
- Provide contact information.
Cheryl
I learned that bulleted communicayion can be more effective because it is more precise.
Students must be able to communicate their ideas and input their thoughts on the subject
The sooner you establish the importance of participation and engagement in the online course, the less isolated students may feel as they progress through the course.
Communication is extremely vital in an online learning environment. It is vital for all aspects of the class/assignments.
Communication is key for not only instructors but students as well.
Communication is key to the success of a learning community. If when students are engaged they will certainly perform better. Communication in a learning community must be clear, void of text language, and appropriate for the classroom.
communication is key and shouldn't have misspellings in it
Online communication is critical for the success of students.
From this topic, I have learnt different lessons regarding online classes. I have understood that gaining access to informaiton in the syllabus improves the preparation of students since they become aware of courrse expectations. Likewise, I have learnt that I should be avoid plagiarism since it can iimpact my grades in online classes.
Teaching good communication skills that involve honesty will demonstrate care on the part of the online facilitator. Most learners who need to sharpen on writing and reading skills will benefit from trying the various engaging ways online/technology learning can offer.
Making sure students are being good citizens in their course and using proper work ethinc is very imporatnt. Set them up to commuincate, to work harder, to grow and expand their minds. Hold them to higher standards right away and they will except nothing less.
Commitment and discipline are key to being successful online learners as well.
Creating a safe online community helps students feel safe when communicating within said community.
The importance of helping the students build a community of practice and to understand it's importance. Clear, concise, appropriate communication is key. Be sure to distinguish the difference between writing for professional communication and writing to text and social media. Participation and engagement are typically the result of a good relationship. Building the relationship with online students looks different but is very important. Helping students understand the realities of online courses and arming them with knowledge, tools, and support to be successful. The number one skill is communication!
