As a CNT instructor most of my students have a good basic knowledge of computers.
There are a variety of tools available to enhance communication in the online environment. You must consider what you wish to achieve when selecting a tool for communication.
Understanding the various types of technologies that are availble for online learning. Being able to utilize some of them are essential for all parties involved. Understanding which tools work best with asynchronous and synchronous learning.
I learned about how it is important to be proactive with "how to" videos and guides at the beginning of the course to help students alleviate anxiety and reference when they get stuck.
Allowing students different platforms to share information and also providinig different ways to learn is really important.
Instructors should not assum the students have all the techinology skills needed for the online course. The needed information should be available from the start on the course and through out if needed as a reference
Importance of knowing students technology skills and providing tools and tips to ensure they know how to function for the basic tasks required.
using social media to our advantage as educators.
Just as in a regular classroom, a variety of tools should be used to deliver both synchronous and asynchronous instruction to students. A variety of methods ensures that multiple learning styles are addressed, and therefore boosts student engagement just as in a face to face classroom.
There are many technology tools that an online course can incorporate into both synchronous and asynchronous classes. Incorporating a variety (email use, wikis, blogs, discussion boards, and video conferencing ) can keep the students engaged in the class
As an instructor, I should be able to use a variety of communication tools in an online course. Social networking is important for success in the online course and it's much easier to have all the necessary tools for our students to open the lines of communication too.
When deciding on technology to be used, make sure it meets your needs and make sure the student’s have the technology and the skills to use it.
Students should gain an understanding of professional and appropriate communication especially in the online discussion boards. This is a great way to prepare them for their professional careers.
Mary Downs
As the online instructor itis important to make students aware of what Technology Skills they must have for the course. I would create a list of questions for students before beginning the course. The online instructor can use social networking or Discussion Boards etc. to POST "How to guides, helpful hints and provide time for students with deficiencies to get help with their deficiencies. Communication with the students early about their Technology Skills will eliminate frustration at a later date.
The teacher must find out how much technical experience/skills their students have so when the students are asked to use a certain tool there will be success and then the students can focus on learning.
Using a variety of tools is important to engage the students using different platforms.
It is important to ensure that students are aware of the technology-related requirements to optimise their enrollment in the course; not just from the perspective of receiving learning, but also in terms of constructing learning.
Online learning will be easier for some than others depending on the amount of prior computer/network exposure a student has. There are many websites to assist the online learner, but they require the student to incorporate their use.
Even though we live in a tech world, not all students are on the same level.
The use of both synchronous and asynchronous tools will enhance online learning.
