Melanie Lavelle

This course goes beyond simple fact recall and standardized assessments by focusing on meaningful online learning experiences. Central to its approach is Malcolm Knowles’ Adult Learning Theory, which stresses the importance of self-direction, drawing on learners’ prior experiences, aligning learning with real-life roles, and emphasizing practical, immediate use of knowledge. Unfortunately, the standardized CANVAS modules we are provided as instructors often limit us to teaching methods that emphasize memorization and repetition. These constraints leave little room for authentic, experience-based learning. While we can try to include small group discussions, the rigid structure of the modules doesn’t easily allow us to… >>>

I truly valued learning about the tools available to enhance course content accessibility, as well as the reminder to take a proactive approach by designing syllabi with a welcoming tone and strong universal design from the outset, rather than trying to adjust retroactively. Offering a variety of formats and designs for online materials is essential to ensure that all students, regardless of impairments or disabilities, feel included and have equal opportunities for success. Ensuring that courses are accessible and beneficial to all learners is essential for student success. A great first step is to explore the wide range of available… >>>

Learning Management Systems (LMS) in the United States have improved as developers have become more informed and attentive to the needs of learners with disabilities, but these platforms still present challenges for students with disabilities in online learning environments. Assistive technology is a key component in supporting students with disabilities. It is designed to promote independence and can be used to help build confidence in these students.

It is the obligation of instructors to ensure appropriate accommodations are made for students with disabilities. Federal law requires that accommodations be provided for students with disabilities. While this isn't a new concept to me, this module has deepened my understanding. Accessibility is essential to ensuring that all students, regardless of their disabilities, have the opportunity to succeed. It is the responsibility of the instructor to know these laws.

Very informative. It is important to make possible accommodations for students with disabilities to assist in learning and understanding the material. I have two sons and a daughter that has accommodations. It is important to support a students success in learning. 

Students learn more in an online environment than they do in traditional courses. Online courses give students full control over their own learning, students are able to work at their own speed. Students love the flexibility it offers. It is imperative for students to have good time management skills in an online course. Offering a way to communicate and encourage students in an online environment is important. 

Making and retaining contact with your students is vital in knowing how they think and what specifically interests them in the content. Designing instructional flow should continue throughout a course to keep every student engaged and active in their own learning process. Just because something worked for one student don't assume it will work for others. It's important to stay engaged, observant, and connected. Then respond and adapt. 

Passive learning is necessary to build off of the content in order for students to better understand. However, in an online environment, the lack of feedback is a disadvantage. It is then important to engage with students with active learning activities.

The module assisted me in learning how it is the instructor's responsibility to plan the course to make it engaging. However, it is the student's responsibility to be in charge of their learning and learning space. Also, you do not need to be in a classroom to promote active learning.