Regina Rains

I have learned that a pattern of communication or consistency is very important for student success. The instructor establishing a code of conduct for communication on an online course is very important. I like the strategies of setting expectations through a communication rubric and outline the consequences of the code of conduct.

I learned that communicating via email within 24 hours, set a time for checking email (office hours), and stick to it so it doesn't take over the rest of your time, this helps the students also know when the best time is to reach you. Make sure to research the best technology tools to use for you as the instructor but also for the students. 

Content should be engaging and make sure the layout is easy for the students to follow. Make sure to use tools that are appealing to the students learning process and remember to let your teaching style/personality come through too. 

We need to find ways to engage our students in the content and to promote communication between the student and the instructor as well as between the students themselves. 

Communication is key to online learning for students. Synchronous or asynchronous learning both have a very important part in online learning. Depending on the class and the learning outcomes/objectives will help decide which is best or used more in a class. 

There are many different tools available and the instructor must be comfortable using the tools to provide lessons to their students. It is important to experiment with many different tools to see what works best for you and your students. 

Multiple evaluations are best when assessing students' knowledge and receiving feedback. I have never considered "closing the loop" in my courses as essential only "helpful" but after this I find it to be essential. 

Feedback is imperative for student learning. There are various types of feedback that can help students. Rubrics are especially helpful because they identify specific objectives for more detailed feedback, but the student can use it as a guide for themselves as well. 

A detailed/dynamic syllabus is key to an online community. It must be detailed and yet able to change as issues or improvements arise. Remember, a flat text does not build this, it must be a "live" format (i.e, audio, or video, links, and detailed explanations). As S2I communication, is important to help a student feel apart of the community, so is S2S. You want to think of various ways to meet everyone's learning styles and comfort levels. 

I found two key learnings for myself. First, Consistency for the format when developing online learning. Second, think about different learning types when sharing content with students, text e is not the best for everyone.