Charlotte Strauss

Closing the loop requires that output feeds back to change the system's input - thus, the course evaluation via multiple methods provide ideas for strong course revision and improvement that will lead to better student learning.

Rubrics should be clear and explained along with the project instructions for understanding.  Peer and Self assessments are opportunities to learn from others, view mistakes as an opportunity to make changes and provide for a transfer of learning to future projects.  Feedback should be communicated as information to increase learnng, not to justify a grade.

Communication creates relationships that create a great learning community.  Via all the forms of communication either in group settings (blog, chat, discussion boards) or individual settings (email, instant messaging), these connections will allow for the relationships to build so that content is learned and everyone shares in the learning of all.  I love the syllabus as an interactive tool that can be updates and tweeked as needed dependent on the students needs.

Consistance in the course from creating the module template to creating the module and the course is key - right down to font style and color of all information.  Intructions need to be consistant throughout so the student can easily follow the flow of the module and course.  Having a "warehouse" or database of objects is also a time saver for use through the course and in other similar courses - example: if student competency states "all students will create/update a resume" you can use this object/tool for all of your courses.

What is the largest class size that you are the most comfortable teaching in the online setting for one course?

Email can be overwhelming in any work environment.  With e-learning, the teacher much have a email management system that allows for within 24 hour replies and a strong connection with the student.  Organization is key.

Feedback in a timely manner is so very important in online settings.  The student must know how they are doing and the teacher must provide that input both positive and negative with ways to improve to the student.  Email is a great way to do this.

I like the first day assignment of a biography of the student with prompts to be answered within the response/blog.  This provides great information to begin that important teacher/student relationship