Donna Trone

It is okay to share personal information in an online setting.  However, it is not necessary to provide home address etc.  I will engage with online students by introducing myself through a blog and have students do the same.

I've learned that course/student evaluations are very important and can help the instructor improve the course.  I will review student evaluations and incorporate ideas that will improve the outcome for my course.

I have realized that the pattern of teaching is important and I will focus on content delivery, learning outcomes and communication when teaching either synchronous or asynchronous courses.

I've learned that there is a variety of teaching tools that can be used for online learning including Blogs, podcasts virtual classrooms etc.  I plan to incorporate Blogs into my future classes.

I have learned that providing feedback in timely manner is imperative to keep students engaged.  If a student is unaware of how they are progressing in the course they may lose momentum.  I will work on providing feedback to students in a more timely manner.

I have learned that breaking up the class presentation and add a variety to the course helps students stay focused and engaged.  Also building rapport with students is important for mutual respect.  I would like to  incorporate a mid semester check with the students to see how they are progressing and provide encouragement and variety.

From this section I have learned that my enthusiasm for the class can be transferred to my students.  Also the enthusiasm can assist with the learning process by incorporating learning activities that are goal oriented and fun.  I will implement group activities that can be perceived by students as fun yet reinforcing a point.

I have learned that students will encounter frustrations and it is my role as the professor to not get involved in the complaint, but to encourage and help come up with an action plan

Don't have a cold start to the class.  Also incorporate a variety of learning methods.  Ones ability to pay attention is limited.

It is important to introduce yourself to the class and give a brief description of your expertise so you can establish credibility with your students.