Tamara Vasilyev

I learned that assessments can promote active learning and build a sense of community between the instructor and other students in the class. Instructors need to accurately communicate to students, using detailed rubrics outlining how they will be evaluated, so students will have a clear understanding of what the expectations are for their performance. 

I learned that quizzes provide learners with an opportunity to assess the degree to which they have mastered the course content. They are most suitable as self-checks of understanding as one progresses from one point of a course to another.

I learned that common methods of asynchronous learning include self-guided lesson modules, pre-recorded video content, virtual libraries, lecture notes and online discussion boards or social media platforms. Asynchronous sessions allow students to self-pace their work through the course content and activities. 

I learned that course content needs to include activities where critical thinking and problem-solving are practiced by the students. Activities like case studies can be assigned to workgroups that can meet via zoom or any other interactive two-way communication format to discuss and work together to find solutions to the problem presented. It is important that whatever activity is assigned has built-in strategies for engaging every student.