Sara DeVoogd

One of the big take-aways from this module is the idea of the instructor as the facilitator of online learning. The idea of an instructor as a facilitator is not new, but thinking through the lens of what facilitating in the F2F environment looks like compared to a virtual classroom might require some modifications and additional structures in place to ensure a productive learning environment. The theme of clear communication regarding expectations comes out in this module as well. Much like communication was referenced as a vehicle for engagement, rubrics similarly serve as a vehicle for delivering specific expecations for… >>>

One piece of this module to use moving forward are the strengths and weaknesses associated with the different generations. The student population of the instructors I work with might fall mostly within one generation, it will be helpful to consider the generations in terms of staff and developing professional learning opportunities for them online as well. One quote that stood out to me from this module is, "Communication within the online community is a vehicle for student engagement.” It seems simple and a given, but so necessary to keep in mind as instructors plan for the fall and beyond.… >>>

The examples of the guidelines and patterns of communication were helpful to see in order to identify areas to consider. A second idea that stood out repeatedly during this module is modeling the behavior. As I work with instructors to create their plan for the fall of next year, those will be pieces to include and questions to promote thinking in terms of netiquette, communication expectations, and a pattern of communication. In addition to modeling, creating opportunities for students to practice netiquette, communication expectations, and the pattern of communication will be important. The feedback students receive as they practice will… >>>

This course content is timely. I am working to develop some end of the year professional learning for instructors in my building which includes both pieces of reflection on their recent remote learning experiences as well as planning to ensure learning does not depend on being face-to-face (F2F) moving forward.

The three lenses of communication: instructor-to-student (I2S), student-to-instructor (S2I), and student-to-student (S2S) will be helpful in structuring the reflection and planning activities. In our quick transition to remote learning, I think the focus was mostly on I2S and S2I. Student emotional well being and safety were a priority as well… >>>