Motivation in the Online Environment
As an instructor for an online college, there are great challenges in keeping students constantly motivated and eager to learn and grow. My portfolio class allows me the versatility in my teaching style to include live critiques of the student work, allowing the students to interact with one another and provide an interactive platform for learning from each other.
Here, they feel comfortable making mistakes and learning from one another and see great growth in their work as there is a bit of 'peer pressure' to continue evolving as the other classmates do.
Joseph, great topic and Online Learning does have its differences. The primary focus however is identical to a traditional classroom with respect to engagement and building a safe zone within which students feel comfortable and safe to learn. I have been teaching Online since 2002 and and much of the research conducted by Vincent Tinto concerning student connectedness to their Institution and to their Program still apply.
James Jackson
