Patricia Nelson

I learned that it is important, even with e-Learning, to understand the learning styles each student possesses so that you, as an instructor, can maintain an environment that reaches all learning styles.  To keep students engaged, it is important to maintain a well-organized classroom with readily accessible supports for students in need. Also, one must maintain good communication with the students and help clear up any confusion or obstacles they may have to learning.

Keep your classroom interesting to keep students motivated and engaged. If you lose your enthusiasm, your students will too. If you put in your full effort, your students will recognize it and appreciate it. Be sure to take care of yourself and recharge when needed, so you do not become burnt out, because the students recognized that as well.

Supporting students and recognizing their met goals, even if they are small, encourages them to keep going. Sometimes students are having a hard time, and the kind, friendly words you offer may be all it takes to keep them from dropping out of the course.

Students come in many shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. It is the professor's job to identify what students need in order to be successful. We need to meet students where they are and help them achieve their goals regardless of their identity, ability or disability, and cultural background.

Having learner participation is critical to everyone's success. It allows you to know that students are actually retaining the information they are learning.

I learned that it is important for me, as the instructor, to post a bio that outlines my qualifications and experience to help students trust me. Also, it is helpful to post my own response to the discussion questions to model appropriate responses for my students.

This learning module reminded me that even though an instructor may have a long history in teaching, they must familiarize themselves with the hardware and software being used to give instruction and the requirements of the college. Additionally, being familiar with how to navigate through the platform used to best assist students is of utmost importance. If one cannot navigate the platform, it hinders the ability to assist students.