EvangelinaF Flores

Clear expectations at the onset of the course as well as a rubric which measures the quality of communication is an excellent way to avoid student frustration.

Different generations of learners have different e-learning styles. However, all e-learning students should have qualities of open-mindedness, good written and verbal skills, self-motivation, self-discipline, time management skills, computer competency, critical thinking ability and a capacity for teamwork.

A consistent form of communication includes patterns that are used frequently and pre-set. At the beginning of the course, it is important to stress civility, netiquette, what is acceptable and unacceptable. These rules can be placed most efficiently in the syllabus.

Using the most user-friendly type of technology will be an asset when considering the e-learning environment for adult students. Many adult learners coming back out of retirement will need a refresher course in computer skills. The instructor may choose to provide an assessment at the beginning of the course of the students' computer literacy. Making the proper computer/technology/software requirements a pre-requisite will enable all students to learn properly.

Learners in an e learning environment can be noisy, quiet, disruptive, intimidators and procrastinators. It is important for the instructor to steer the synchronous discussion back to topic. Learners who experience difficulty should be counseled via email.

Engaging learners in a synchronous platform should be one on one unless it is a live video stream. Asynchronous chat is most effective. Considering time zones and non engaged students will help the discussions stay on topic. 

Projecting the presence and authority of an instructor of an online course, as well as on-site instructors, is vital for students to acquire new knowledge from their course. When instructors are available online, it helps facilitate a good learning environment. Instructors can provide an asynchronous platform for which they engage with Q and As. Synchronous forums for lectures should highlight important topics. It is not necessary the instructor spend too much time speaking. Authority comes in the form of a biography from the instructor explaining their professional credentials and work experience and also achievements. Some choose to put their hobbies… >>>

Online instructors just like on-site instructors need to vary their delivery method. Online content includes asynchronous and synchronous elements like group discussions. Online instructors need to include same measurement elements as on-site instructors such as grading format, quizzes and exams, a syllabus, concise structure of the course, objectives and goals. Another element includes technical support. Frustrations with online students include having technical difficulties such as issues with software, hyperlinks that glitched or have become irrelevant or even network connectivity.

Career-based ie "hands-on" learning  can still use concepts described in an e learning environment and vice versa. For example, as an aircraft mechanic, a technician needs to analyze or sort through and take inventory of the tools and manpower that will be needed to change out a tire. A good online presentation would be to film real aircraft maintenance taking place. 

Developing a course syllabus is of utmost importance. Lecturing delivery method and lab work time will affect the syllabus.