Alina Alvarado

I liked the idea of using non-invasive assessments where they can be integrated into the curriculum to help limit test anxiety and provide better, more accurate analysis.

I learned about free/affordable resources to create educational games. I would be interested in simulation games to help reinforce hands-on skills needed for vocational training.

I learned that virtual game play, simulations and MMORPGs are becoming more integrated with the learning environment. At a previous online university, we started using online VR worlds during events during and after COVID that would have otherwise been held in person. While there was more positive feedback on the in-person events that were hosted in Hawaii, many more students could participate, and it did increase the social presence of both staff and students compared to no event at all. 

Moving forward, I would like to see these incorporated for learning purposes, not just social interaction and networking. However, monitoring… >>>

It is interesting to know that the hesitations of both instructors and students are valid and observed. It is also good to know guidelines to help overcome these challenges. However, before they could be applied, more information on examples or how to incorporate them in real-world, class environments would be helpful to note.

It was good to learn that it is recommended to have a combination of unplanned and planned interactions. Though this would be more natural in a synchronous environment, it may be able to be applied in asynchronous learning environments too.

There are different types of strategies for engaging a learner such as reversed instruction, periodic pausing, flipped-classroom, and using mobile technology. The last three are elements I am more comfortable in developing courses around to help facilitate engaging learners.

I found it interesting that typically active learning techniques are missing from K-12th grade and then shocks students in their undergraduate years. It was the opposite when I was a student. Highschool was the first time we did not have annual standardized tests (as the common core exams were being implemented), and that is really where a lot of active learning methods were used, not just low-risk ones either. Most of my undergraduate classes had very little active learning methods, and most were low-risk. If standardized tests don't change, then wouldn't it force instructors and students to favor the methods… >>>

It is interesting how many would consider active learning elements as a natural part of online learning, but it is still typically easier in synchronous environments. The examples used for asynchronous learning will definitely be helpful in still incorporating active learning for relevant course content.

It was interesting to learn more about having blogs only meant for the student and instructor versus open to wider audience. This type of setting could help others feel more secure and confident but limits the amount of networking, interactive nature and communication. If learning outcomes did not incorporate this, then having more secluded settings could be helpful to incorporate.

There are a lot more creative ways to incorporate microblogging than I initially thought. Following trends and reviewing their trends can be really beneficial to use when teaching certificate courses in specific niches.