Courtney Sharkey

Literacy is important for all learners, not just those in academic programs. Even hands-on or vocational fields require strong literacy skills for understanding information, solving problems, communicating clearly, and completing job-related tasks. Literacy should be seen as a set of foundational skills that support lifelong learning in every subject and career area.

Increased access to information has changed research from a slow, library based process into an ongoing and multidirectional search for information. Students now focus less on the number of books or hours spent researching and more on finding, evaluating, and connecting many sources. Because so much information is available online, students must develop stronger critical thinking skills to decide which details matter, question sources, and recognize bias.

Connectivity in new literacy goes beyond the traditional model of one sender sending a message to one receiver. Today, communication can involve many senders and many receivers at the same time through webbed connections, hyperlinks, and digital platforms. Information also moves continuously, without being limited by time, place, or a single purpose. This makes modern communication more multidimensional, flexible, and interactive than older send-and-receive models.

Effective instructors should design varied learning activities, assessments, and projects that support different student preferences while still strengthening all literacy skills. Because students have diverse needs and goals, instruction should be creative and intentional so every learner can build comprehension and meet learning standards.

Many textbook publishers now support virtual labs by creating materials that align with textbook content. These resources help students move smoothly between reading, activities, and lab experiences. Publishers often work with colleges and instructors to develop online lab tools across many fields, including medicine, political science, and engineering.

A successful online lab needs clear directions, strong organization, and meaningful hands-on learning. Students should understand the purpose of the lab, the materials needed, the steps to complete the activity, and how their work will be assessed. Online labs also need opportunities for reflection so students can connect the activity to the learning outcomes. Whether the lab uses a kit, simulation, video demonstration, or virtual environment, it should still require students to think critically and apply what they are learning. Clear communication and instructor support are also important so students do not feel like they are completing the lab alone.

Online labs can be successful but it takes lots of planning.  

Students should choose asynchronous if they need flexibility and can manage time well on their own.

They should choose synchronous if they need structure, live discussion, real-time questions, and more accountability.

The best choice depends on the student’s schedule, learning style, and how much support they need to stay successful.

When moving course content online, just posting information isn’t enough. Instructors need to check that students actually understand the material and can apply it in real ways. Ongoing feedback and simple check-ins help spot gaps early and keep students moving forward.

Good instructors spend less time lecturing and more time getting students involved with the material. Instead of just talking at the class, they ask questions, spark discussions, and guide students toward figuring things out for themselves. This approach helps students take ownership of their learning and strengthens their critical thinking skills.