Understanding Online Learning | Origin: EL201
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Online Communication: Engaging and Retaining Online Learners --> Understanding Online Learning
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
I have learned that most students today are not traditional learners and it will be important to be flexible.
I learned the 7 characteristics of an online learner.
i am more familiar with the online learner due to being hybrid with my institution the last few years. It seems that this is the way that the world is going but i am weary that students that are not typical online learners will not do very well!
I’ve learned like our students pwe must continue to grow and learn how to better serve them in this world of technology and online learning.
I’m have learned we are ever the student as well. As stated technology is ever evolving and we must grow as well and do our research in order to better relate to the learner. We must also maintain a healthy checks and balances system to reiterate what the learner has grasped .
To be able to teach students on a level they're comfortable with and understand better, so they can grow prosperous in this industry. I need to become more familiar with technology and how its changing our industry, so i can learn and grow with it and be a better instructor.
Reaching out to the students and collaboration with the students and understand the skills that each student creates during each session.
Helping the students feel more confident in learning technology and that we will be there for any concerns they have
Becoming familiar with technology and how it's changing the industry we service will continue to grow in technology will be a part of how they learn so being able to teach them on their level and grow
Bring comfortable adapting to all technologies
You have to become comfortable to adapting to new technology to be able to reach new caliber of students
We have to adapt to the use of technology in the classroom.
Stay in contact with the student so that they know that can reach out to you about questions they may have about the platform. Let them know that we are not a "Bot" but a real person there to help them.
From this module, I learned that effective online education goes far beyond simply transferred face-to-face content to digital platform. Successful online learning requires intentional course design, clear communication, clear communication, structural engagement, and active instructor presence. I gained deeper understanding of how learner autonomy, accessibility, and flexibility are central to the online learning experience, but must be balanced with guidance, feedback, and interaction to keep students motivated and accountable.
Online learning should include various activities to promote continual engagement from students.
Understanding the characteristics of online students helps improve service by reminding us that many learners are balancing work, family, and school at the same time. Knowing that online students must rely heavily on self-management, self-advocacy, and written communication encourages instructors and staff to be clearer, more proactive, and more responsive in their support. When we recognize common challenges such as technology gaps, time constraints, or hesitation to ask for help, we can anticipate needs and offer guidance before problems escalate. This awareness ultimately leads to more empathetic communication and more effective support for online learners.
I intend to apply this knowledge by being more intentional in my communication, increasing proactive outreach, and building stronger working alliances grounded in genuineness, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. By fostering a supportive, inclusive environment and recognizing the diverse challenges students face, I can better support their growth, development, and long-term success while also contributing positively to the overall campus climate.
I learned that understanding who online learners are—their responsibilities, motivations, and challenges—is essential to designing meaningful communication, support strategies, and learning environments. I intend to apply this by promoting proactive communication, flexible support structures, and student-centered practices to enhance engagement, success, and retention.
