How effective can instructional assessment techniques are in the online or distant education environment? I encountered huge challenges  to maintain instructional quality in the online environment. 

As a new instructor, I was a little uneasy at first, but soon got comfortable and just began to do a mental checklist. I told myself I can do this, it's good to get the nervousness over with, don't want the learners to pick up on it.

One of the things I try to remember is that students learn things for their reasons, not mine. Being mindful in my presentations of this theory opens up student learning as they begin to open their minds to new ideas and challenger their assumptions. 

What is a strategy for engaging a student who is constantly on their phone or on an electronic device, not paying attention or participating in class?

Instructors give less time to students with disability?

Invest time in instructional methods

Provide extra time

Getting into diverse groups

Stay organized

Timed lessons

great

What are some methods you have utilized to assess a student's learning without actually giving a grade that measures it or requires a rubric to be utilized for grading?

As a new faculty/instructor, what were some of your challenges and fears that other new instructors can learn from?

Excellent reminders!

In your opinion, what is the most difficult part of teaching? Is it teaching? Classroom management? The students? Making tests?

I believe that the hardest part of teaching is knowing if my teachings are effective with my students. Now with this training, I have found ways to help improve my teaching style as well as be more mindful about my students to help them learn the best way they can.

I enjoyed this class.  It allowed me to step back and reflect on things that I have observed but hadn't yet put words and reflection into processing.

Learned alot 

Could be so "professional" that it hinders an effective instructional style?

I have found that using a combination of audiovisual techniques is helpful for students. For example, sometimes showing a short video that supports content we have just gone over, with a quick quiz after to benefit information retention.

Instructors can benefit significantly from making quality connections with learners. Customarily, as educators, we perform a variety of icebreaking techniques to allow learners to feel more comfortable.  However, I believe that "breaking the iceberg" is more essential because it is an ongoing process.  It enables learners to acquire positive learning experiences and to attain higher order thinking.  The affective domain for learning is paramount because if learners are uncomfortable in their learning environment, learning ceases at its onset.