Gail Stewart

When teaching online, it is important to develop standards of communication and hold students accountable for their communication under those standards. It is also important to provide continuous feedback to students in an online environment.

In an asynchronous environment, it is very important for the instructor to participate in discussions and giving feedback to students to avoid them becoming passive learners.  It can be difficult to build a positive connection with students when you aren't interacting with them regularly as you would in a synchronous class.  Because of that, communicating and responding to posts and assignments is very important.

I learned that it is important ask what supports are available to be able to understand how to help manage your time.  Often we think about strategies but maybe there are supports already available to assist. 

I learned about Malcolm Knowles 4 principles of andragogy and the differences between the needs of adult learners and non-adult learners. Being aware of these 4 principles can help me make modifications to my lessons and teaching.  

I learned enthusiasm and feedback should  to be tailored to suit the needs of each learner in order to be most effective. Try to avoid generic or whole class feedback and encouragement but rather be specific so students feel valued and motivated. 

Understanding the needs of each and every student and building relationships are keys to success.  We shouldn’t assume we know things about students without actually getting to know them. Be mindful of the differences in needs and motivations of all students, keeping in mind they may all have different experiences and supports. 

I plan to reflect on my teaching and remember to often consider my why and purpose and how that connects to the goals of the college.  This will ultimately lead to more student success.  When teachers are empowered and feel motivated, students benefit.

I learned useful strategies to deal with potential classroom issues while also maintaining your professionalism and respect for students.  Setting clear expecatations and remaining consistent will help minimize issues with students.

I believe it is possible to have some qualities of all 4 types of instructors.  Structure is very important, however, if the students do not feel that you respect and value them it is hard to teach them.  It is important to be a balance of all the types of instructors in order to acheive an environment where students are set up for success and can master the learning objecetives. 

Students, the institution, and the teaching and professional community comprise the major stakeholders who have interest in helping teachers close the loop in their online courses.  Data and feedback are needed from each of those three groups. 

It is also important to remember that students are consumers in the course and they can be valuable sources of feedback.  Since online students don't have the opportunity to have casual conversation it is important that teachers plan for communication experienes with students and between students.