Angela Zaugg

This module discussed important considerations for various types of learning activities when teaching online.  I appreciated the idea of allowing students to take quizzes multiple times until they achieve a perfect score so they can learn from their mistakes.  It also helped me realize the importance of providing immediate feedback after exams to clarify the reasoning to students so they can incorporate correct thinking patterns.  The links to the appendices with examples of online syllabi and lessons was a helpful resource.

This module provided ideas for selecting supportive learning activities to increase knowledge, application, and learner-relevancy.  It clarified that most interactions typical of an on ground class can be implemented online.  I recently took an on-line course, myself.  It included almost all of the components mentioned, readings available through hyperlinks, video content, and asynchronous discussion methods.  A guest lecture would have added more interest to the course, however.  I also think I would prefer the hybrid model of online teaching so I could complete modules at my own pace, but have more formal interactions with peers to discuss the topics for… >>>

This module outlined the 4 characteristics of quality online courses, including, structural integrity, navigational simplicity, active learner-centered learning, and intellectual interaction.  It emphasized the need for online courses to be easy to navigate, engaging, learner-centered, and to provide opportunities for interaction, both with the instructor and other students, to promote effectivel learning.

Instructors of online courses need to develop techniques that promote a feeling of community through effective communication and opportunities for collaboration.  Use of rubrics can help provde a formal, fair, and consistent way of grading online communication.

This module emphasized the  need to provide differentiated instruction to address the needs of students that may come from various generations and have differing skills in regards to technology and communication.  Applying the Golden Rule to class communication can alleviate many of the issues that may arise in online communication.  I think it is important to emphasize to students in the beginning of the course the qualities of a successfull online student, so they have a clear understanding of the expectations and demands to be successful in an online course.

This model emphasized the importance of estabilshing netiquette rules early and to establish a pattrn of communication.  The best way for instructors to manage communication in a course is to be involved, consistent, and to model the appropriate behavior as well as delineate the expectations clearly.  The example of appropriate postings and responses and use of a rubric for discussion boards is very relevant.  In my experience, most students won't expand on the conversation in a discussion board beyond, "I agree/disagree", etc. unless the instructor indicates that the student must be more participative, thorough, and reflective in their responses.

I appreciated the information about assessing use of technology for enhanced course communication both in formative and summative ways, and looking at instructor-to-student, student-to-instructor, and student-to-student communication.  This module gave many examples of technology tools available for various types of communication.  Fortunately, I have college-aged and high school-aged children at home so they keep me apprised of the latest and greatest communication platforms.  This module reminded me that it is important to set expectations of technology use for communication at the start of the course, so students are aware of how to reach the instructor when they have questions.

I appreciated the examples of effective teaching methods in an online environment - it basically boils down to using a variety of communication methods in a consistent matter and making sure your online course is engaging, accessible, and provdes the most important information in smaller "chunks" so as not to risk losing student interest.

It is important to utilize methods that will enhance student engagement in all aspects of the course. In online teaching, instructors should facilitate learning, which is often realized through modelling of correct behavior and expectations, and providing timely, personal, and informative instructions and feedback.  In addition, instructors should take student feedback into consideration, along with student outcomes, and course content to determine what can be done to improve instruction.

It is important to determine which method, synchronous vs asynchronous will provide the best instructional delivery method for the content area.  Each method has its advantages and disadvantages.  Regardless of which method is used, it is important to establish guidelines for learning in an online community and to develop a pattern of teaching or consistency in outcomes, communication, location, content delviery, assignment submissions and questions & answers.  This consistency will go a long way in reducing student anxiety related to what to expect from the course instructor and what the course instructor will expect from the student.