Vicki Hoppe

I will start using the [emotional] strategies and the ARCS communication moving forward.

Text communication is missing the body language component of expressive language and can be misunderstood as cold, demeaning, etc. if the right words are not chosen carefully.  Using video to post a technological message, introduction, lesson allows for the non-verbal body language and decreases the incidence of miscommunication.

Creating a positive social presence is a very important role for the on line instructor.

Learners today are not all young people fresh out of high school.  Many learners take on line courses so they can do their course work around their schedules with family, work, and other commitments.

On line learners have to be able to ask for help when they need it.  The instructor needs to encourage the students to reach out as needed.  

Comment on Vicki Hoppe's post: Being available to answer questions is very important to the students.

The most important and relevant thing I learned with this module is the difference between Customer Service and the having a professional supportive relationship with the students.  

Collaboration and Problem Based Learning (PBL) help students to develop critical thinking skills.

Reading, reflective writing, games, group activities or individual asynchronous activities using wiki or similar technology for active learning is effective to engage the on line learner.  

It may take instructor more time to plan and implement active learning than straight lecture.  Students may resist the active learning preferring passive learning.  It is important for the instructor to set the expectations of the class and let the students know active learning will be included in the course, what that means, and why it will help them to learn.

Help the students avoid the pitfall of procrastination.  Encourage students to develop schedules that work for them and stick to the schedules to get assignments done on time or even better to work ahead.

Many people think on line learning is easy and less time consuming than the traditional classroom.  It is not. 

There are many technological tools that can be used for synchronous and asynchronous communication.  No matter what formats are used the instructor will be wise to provide "how to" guides for the technology used in the specific classroom.  

Synchronous communication for an online course can be more challenging to accomplish due to time zones and variable schedules.  Using web conferencing and white boards are more engaging than an audio only conference.