Alberto Rodriguez

A successful online learning experience starts with the instructor. An online instructor who manages both synchronous and asynchronous learning environments must have a high level of organization and access to any additional support that may be needed. 

Time management is an important skill when dealing with the online learning space. It is helpful for an instructor to provide "tips and tricks" for keeping up with the work load and successfully navigating the assignment schedule. 

Planning out the online course can be a lengthy process. The more consideration used during the initial course planning the more versatile it will become for future use. Any modifications needed can be made more easily and quickly when adjusting for different courses. 

A clear outline of the expectations for online learning will help to provide each student with confidence as they complete the assigned tasks.

Setting the stage for the online environment is necessary. Both the student and the teacher should assess the requirements for a successful online learning experience. An initial survey is a great way to identify any potential challenges that may present themselves during the course in an effort to make any changes needed. 

Organizing content for an online learning environment is crucial to the success of each student. The flow of information and consistency of the manner in which it is found and applied needs to be clear in order to avoid student frustration which can lead to poor academic performance. 

A facilitator is responsible for setting the tone of the learning environment. Communication is one of the most important factors in setting the expectations of social interaction and must also include examples in which the learners can observe the expected behavior in action. This includes feedback from the facilitator and other leaners.  

Synchronous and Asynchronous learning provide two different types of learning environments. Understanding the learning environment that you are teaching in will help to apply the modifications necessary in order to optimize the learning experience for the students. There are benefits and drawbacks with each environment and these should be considered when developing the teaching style for the course. 

Matching tools with teaching style is essential for getting the most benefit from the learning experience. 

As an instructor we are tasked with the responsibility of monitoring, guiding and motivation student participation and community involvement.