Heather LeBlanc

Learned about stressing to faculty moving to online delivery of courses to not just upload a PowerPoint and lecture if synchronous. How online courses may require a total redesign of the initial F2F class. To make the content more engaging and interactive, plus easy to find. The importance of consistent layout of content.

How to facilitate online learning and how to be more effective as a facilitator 

Though I prefer synchronous learning to asynchronous, I do see the advantages and disadvantages to both techniques. I also see the similarities between the two methods: keeping students engaged and active is very important.

Ensure the technology matches the outcomes you want the student to achieve. Many many forms of technology to use to enhance learning.

Goal is to help students develop their critical thinking skills, which are poor in most students. Like PBL. Would like to use it more.

How to incorporate active learning while teaching online, especially asynchronous courses. The techniques are not the same as done in the traditional classroom. Good ideas presented.

Limitations and misconceptions would include instructor giving up control, students wanting to just be told what to learn, resistance to new techniques by the students and instructors, extra time needed to prepare the activities, extra time to use these techniques if synchronize classes, instructor lack of knowledge of various techniques, institution issues, technology issues

Active learning techniques increase engagement, learning and retention of students. Some instructors are using these techniques without realizing it. They take some time to organize and plan. Instructor role changes to facilitator. Hard for some instructors to “give up control”. Incorporating active learning techniques greatly improves student learning.

Maintain regular communication with students, follow their progress, encourage participation and completion of materials, help guide the students to technology help, connect with students, manage conflict, deal with different behaviours.

Benefit of asynchronous discussions and adding your reply at the end of the discussion. Preparing a rubric for consistent grading. Private chats for one on one. Synchronous discussions through chat during the class. Why some participate during synchronous and asynchronous chats/discussions and how to increase participation.