EL-101 and the bigger picture
One of the most significant benefits for me and taking this course was to have an overall picture that allows me to work many of the technology and media details without losing the overall educational perspective. Sometimes the over emphasis on technology creates the risk of minimizing other and perhaps less subtle components of proper educational techniques. Consequently there are very well presented and very colorful online media content, but much of the educational value of the presentations could many times be overshadowed. Taking this course allows me to move freely between the "trees" and not forget the importance of the "forest" when developing online courses.
Building community and facilitating good communications practices in a fast paced environment is extremely difficult, because it seems that everyone (instructors included) are focused on content more than anything else. Yet EL105 on Communications in the Online Classroom was able to help me discover other options, especially at small group level, to enhance the communications process and to relieve some of the inherent stresses in small group projects. A great course to consider, especially if you see students struggling with becoming engaged in the course.
