Lori Swanson

It is important to have good organizational skills. Also, it is important to carefully design activities and projects to keep the student engaged. Online instructors should have space set aside, just like students, for work. Distractions are just as bad for instructors.

I can start by recording my lectures. I would need to get familiar with the tools available to me. I should also provide transcripts of my lectures. I should make sure my instructions are clear and concise.

I learned that active learning takes a lot of planning.  Active Learning provides students with a full and interactive way to learn.  Instructors need to start off the semester with a good 15min video explaining how the class will be focused on active learning and the benefits. Sometimes technology can get in the way of learning.  There should be a lot of IT support 24/7 provided to the instructor and students.  With the necessary guidance and acknowledgement for providing active learning more instructor 's would be willing to make the changes necessary.

I have learned that even if we try to provide all these services we may not be able to reach all students with disabilities. There are flaws in the equipment and software. We just have to research to figure out what works best for our students.

Going from brick and mortar to online because of Covid was a big change. I really hadn't thought of changing the way I present my class. We were already using a LMS but we were in the building. Now I realize some of the changes I need to make. So far everything has worked but there is always room for improvement.

I didn't realize so many disorders are actually classified as disabilities. I do have some students with disabilities and I have always worked with them. I never realized that online content could actually be a problem for some.

Planning and setting goals is something you need to actually live your life. If you don't set goals you have nothing to motivate you. Tone and attitude can definately be mis-read in a text environment. Time management can be one of the biggest challenges in the online environment.

Synchronous and Asynchronous communication is used online and face to face. Asynchronous allows the student to access the material on their time schedule but too much of that doesn't really allow the instructor to build a relationship with the student. Using Social Networking should be kept to a minimum unless using specific sites.

It is important to set guidelines so students know what is expected of them. Reading and writing skills are needed within an online environment. Communication skills have to be a priority, you want to keep your students engaged.

Motivation is needed to be successful in the online environment. Instructors can keep students motivated with positive feedback. Time management is critical, online courses require as much time and committment as face to face courses. Be aware of students with special needs.