Dale Salzman

It is interesting that asynchronous discussions are the heart of an online course. That is opposrite of a classroom setting. I like the fact that asynchronous discussions encourage participation by all students. The barriers for students who normally have limited participation in a classroom, are mostly removed in an elearning environment. 

In my view, the disadvantages to using synchronous discussion are such that I don't see me utilizing synchronous discussion.

The section on provding feedback is really important for me. In a classroom I rely on non-verbal feedback (smiles, nods, confused looks, etc.) to communicate to my students. The absence of… >>>

This module made we realize that projecting my credibilty and presence via an online course requires different techniques than when teaching in a classroom. In my high school classroom, I have never provided the student with a personal biography. rather I would verbally share life experiences and accomplishments with the students during introductions and through the course discussions. I understand now that I will need to create different techniques to accoplish this in an online environment.

My key learning from this module is the necessity that the instructor has a clear understanding of the Course Management System (CMS). This is necessary in order to provide the course content in a logical and effective manner. Like any computer program, you need to know the program to use it effectively and effeciently. Also it is necessary to understand how the CMS works from the student view. If we inadvertly create delivery errors we will frustrate the student.