The advancement in technology has very beneficially impacted the avenues of learning for many students. 

Students need to be engaged from their instructors so that learning is meaningful for them. 

Passive learning is extremely important as trains your brain to be more aware of external information. 

One thing I learned from this module is that managing an online learning environment requires more than just teaching content. It also involves organizing communication, providing timely and encouraging feedback, addressing behavioral issues professionally, and helping students stay engaged to reduce attrition. I plan to apply these strategies by maintaining organized communication, responding to students consistently, and creating a supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and participating. I also learned the importance of documenting interactions and addressing concerns early before they become larger issues.

I learned that keeping learners engaged requires using both asynchronous and synchronous discussions effectively, encouraging participation from all students, and providing timely, constructive feedback. I also learned that creating a respectful and interactive learning environment, using small groups when appropriate, and considering different learning preferences can increase student engagement. I plan to apply this by encouraging meaningful discussions, providing prompt feedback, and using a variety of strategies to support different learning styles and keep students actively involved in the course.

I learned that projecting my presence as an online instructor is important for building trust and creating a supportive learning environment. Introducing myself, sharing my qualifications and experience, communicating regularly, responding to students in a timely manner, and encouraging interaction can help students feel more connected and engaged. I plan to apply this by maintaining open communication, providing prompt feedback, and creating a welcoming learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions.

I learned that it is important to understand how a course is organized, including where to find assignments, quizzes, discussions, and course resources. I also learned that I should review grading policies, due dates, and course expectations early so I can stay on track. I plan to apply this by checking the course schedule regularly, staying organized, and reaching out for help if I have questions.

Active learning deepens critical thinking skills. In the 21st century, businesses are looking for critical thinkers who can evaluate information, analyze complex situations, solve problems, and recognize that they don’t always have to be right.Mistakes are inevitable, with learning occurring from the mistakes. Paul & Elder (2021) posit that critical thinking is a process for analyzing how we think about our own thinking.

Developing critical thinking requires progressing through stages of learning, each of which enhances students' ability to think critically. Aristotle’s contributions reflect reasoning grounded in ethos, pathos, and logos. Logos is categorized as deductive reasoning grounded in… >>>

Active learning can be labor-intensive, so letting the students know ahead of time to bring balance is key. Determining the technology tools the online instructor may use to enhance active learning can take some effort and thought about the course. Tools that support collaboration and project learning include wikis, blogs, discussion boards, and audio/video tools.

Actively learning has many positive traits; however, there are internal and external barriers, namely institutional behaviors, climate, and technology issues, involved in successfully using active learning techniques.  Students graduating from K-12 learning environments may not realize they are learning when instructors utilize active learning techniques.  If an online instructor uses mobile technology, such as an iPad or smartphone, for GPS tracking, interviews, photos, etc., the instructor must ensure that all students can adequately complete the assignments, whether or not they have the technology.Technology is wonderful for active learning, but it must be used equitably.