Instructor styles on line and on ground
Do you think your teaching style differ in online classes and ground classes?
Do you think your teaching style would differ if you were teaching a class with no one in class?
This is a common element in online classes.
I enjoy teaching, I found it takes many styles to reach student in the online environment. The most key critical component is to show your students that you care; this could be difficult to achieve with online classes. E mail and instant messages lack the intonations commonly expressed in a one on one conversation. To express a sense of compassion and to show that you really care should be your question. To reach a student that is not involved should be your challenge.
You have two opportunities to make contact, to set the tone. The can make all the differences. Your grade comments must show that you are there for the student. The second element is to communicate via e mail. This initial contact is your gateway.
First complement, second, inform the student of the areas he/she did well. Then gently address the missing elements “It appears that you commented to no oneâ€.
In part:
“Very good write… you properly addressed all assignment elements. Nice work.
You were required to respond to at least three other postings. It appears that you commented to no oneâ€. Follow this up with an instructional e mail. This student improved.
To reach this point in effectively communicating with student could not have been accomplished alone. I had help from a close friend.
Walter,
I agree with you; many styles are required to reach students in an online environment. The way I demonstrate to my students that I care is to send a Welcome Letter prior to the first day of class and post it in the Announcements section of class so that it's the first Announcement they see when they enter the online home room.
Once the class begins, if a student has not logged into class and introduced themselves within a few days, I send an email stating I have noticed they have not participated in the course and offer my assistance if they have any questions or concerns.
The grading comments begin with what the student did well, what they missed or could have improved upon or addressed, and end with a compliment or comment of encouragement.
Comments from students in the end of course surveys demonstrate that they are well aware of my student focus, compassion and desire to sincerely help them. Perhaps sharing this information will assist others in online teaching environments.
