Melanie Lavelle

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.

Communication and customer service are important and go hand in hand. It is important to learn effective communication skills in order to solve problems. 

Technology provides another platform for trades students to apply what they learn and improve their learning. Utilizing technology and online learning can enhance learning trades and problem solving skills.