It is great to be reminded of the importance of engaging students in the learning process through hands-on, interactive activities that encourage critical thinking. PBL is one of my favorites, as it helps students develop critical thinking skills and take a more active role in their learning experience. Coupled with group PBL, the entire experience fosters collaborative learning among students.  

online instructions should be short and precise use tools that effectively teach use variety and technology

the instructor facilitator should evaluated teaching methods to insure what is taught is being learned

guidelines and organization of content help in both in person and online teaching and learning 

technology tools are very important and selecting the right tool is essential for teaching as well as learning

Adapting traditional activities for online learning is very interesting, i.e., shifting group discussions into dynamic virtual collaborations. This can create a more interactive, engaging, and inclusive learning experience. Reimagining assessments by turning them into peer reviews can foster critical thinking and deeper student engagement. I am excited to apply these strategies by integrating collaborative projects, multimedia content, and innovative assessments that not only align with online formats but also inspire students to take ownership of their learning journey. 

One key takeaway is the misconception that online learning lacks engagement or effective student-teacher interaction. In reality, with the right tools and strategies, online platforms can facilitate meaningful connections and foster an engaging environment. If these connections occur through social media, such as Facebook or Instagram, they can also happen in the online learning space. However, time management and self-discipline can be significant hurdles for students. To address this, I plan to incorporate more interactive elements, like discussion boards and live sessions, and provide guidance on time management to help students stay on track and remain engaged. 

This module highlighted that active learning is a research-backed approach that significantly improves comprehension, retention, and student engagement. It shifts the focus from passive content delivery to dynamic, student-centered learning.

I intended to apply these insights by integrating more case-based discussions, peer collaboration, and real-world problem solving into my instruction. I'll also utilize learner feedback and analytics to continuously refine strategies, ensuring that each activity not only engages but also deepens understanding.

I learned that even in an online environment it is important to recognize different learning/personality styles.  Understanding this helps me to help address different potential student issues.  Being familiar with my institutions policies and procedures will give me a great foundation on how to manage any problems that may arise either due to student learning styles or technical difficulties.

Synchronous discussions are best used in a 1 on 1 setting, ideally in real time. Asynchronous discussions will be far more common, and are the heart of the online class format.