Although technological affluence can be a difficult hurdle to cross, it is an achievement that is well worthy. I've always considered music a technology business and encouraging students to self manage and work through these hurdles can be both rewarding in the learning process and in the retention of course materials
The evolution of online learning is interesting. It isn't going anywhere and has become the norm. With that having a firm grasp on areas of weakness a student might have through this model of education is important.
You have to be committed to online teaching because some students feel that it's a slack day, so I call upon my students often and remind them that it's a interactive class.
I have been teaching blended courses for 14 years, and this method allows for students to engage, plan, find the best time to work, and review.
Online learning is multifaceted and requires thinking outside the box to engage students, and it may require more work than traditional face-to-face learning. Since less than 20% of students are considered 'traditional students' it makes sense to adapt and work towards accommodating more students.
The online learning environment presents many challenges when effectively communicating with students. However, the modern learner engages all aspects of life using online methods. While these modern learners are acclimated to this, it still presents many challenges to overcome. Meaningful contact during online courses requires instructors to rethink the way they communicate.
Students are are less likely to be traditional students, they are often 25 yrs old and up with families. This can create challenges, however online learning might be a better avenue for them.
I learned the differences between the traditional learning enviroment (f2f) and the online learning environment and each one needs.
This course explained the difference between online learning and in-person learning - as well as the challenges that we face as educators.
I learned a lot about the trends of technology and was surprised by the stats regarding the amount of classes being hybrid or fully online.
Comment on DR. ALLISON LEGGETT's post: Developing competencies is a key factor for student success. Online students benefit from discussion activities (blogs). Strong literacy for critical thinking and the ability to communicate effectively will develop communication skills and self-advocacy.
There are multiple reasons why a student may not be adapting to the instruction modality. Recognizing the strengths and weaknesses of each student will enable the instructor to deliver the appropriate support.
Both the students and instructor have to be motivated and committed to the task at hand. It is much easier to guide when you know your process.
Understanding how to facilitate and assist your students online will provide a productive online learning experience.
The understanding of the importance of the flexibility the students need, which is one of the main reasons why most students choose this form of academics.
I have learned environment is everything. If a student doesn't feel happy or comfortable in their environment they will not succeed. I will continue to strive to make my learning environment for students as enticing and inviting as I possibly can.
In a highly competitive market, online learning has grown not just in the USA but globally. The ability to take your education anywhere is more convenient than that F2F.
https://www.statista.com/chart/23695/higher-education-online/
I think COVID changed a ton. One of the positive outcomes, I think, is the greater capacity for online opportunities in education. I think this is good for higher education, because I think adults have an easier time remaining focused and benefiting from a virtual environment.
So far, there is not a lot of new information for me in this course. Our students are all over the map, demographically; some 18-24, some 35-65 working full-time, on disability, parents, whomever. Many do not have the needed tech skills to be successful and we have two people on staff who work with them as their main job. We reach out when we don't see submissions in Canvas after 5 days, ask if they need a tutor, etc. and our retention is still not great. I'm waiting to hear the "secret sauce" here because we have excellent support and multiple points of connectivity from day one in the program. I do feel that many enroll in an online program because they perceive it will be "easier" and are quickly disillusioned.
Online learning has become a valid choice for individuals to purse their education. However, much work is needed to fill the gaps that exist with traditional learning.
