In this module, I've gained valuable insights into how a well-structured online format helps students learn.
One significant lesson I've learned is how valuable quizzes can be, after this learning I plan to apply by this knowledge by implementing quick quizzes as a break from lecture.
Characteristics of Online Courses: What is most important?
The four characteristics outlined in EL101 (structural integrity, navigational simplicity, learner-centered learning, and intellectual interaction) are all necessary components, but when looked at individually, each one can be considered just as critical as the next. For example, if all characteristics are present but the structure integrity and flow of a course is disjointed, there is a higher likelihood of low motivation from the student and/or dropping a course.
If I had to rate the characteristics to prioritize when developing an online course, I would rate the following(1 being most critical):
1. intellectual interaction
2. structural integrity
3. navigational simplicity
4. learner-centered learning
This course outlines the importance of how the course looks, along with navigation through the course, clear expectations outlined from the beginning of the course for students to see.
Distant learning is very vast an ever growing. To my understanding "it has grown exponentially," as I concur! From structural, navigational, centered learning, to intellectual interactions these are the fundamental designs to create a solid foundation. Furthermore, the quality being delivered are controlled and managed, which are aimed to assess, retrieve, and activate to promote advanced learning for "all individuals from all walks of life."
Navigational simplicity help make a course and what is expected easier to understand.
quality Online courses are what is needed in a fast paced world with Very user friendly navigation methods.
In teaching online courses, the content must be organized and sequential. The course site must be attractive and easy to navigate. Students must be able to find information easily. It is also important for students to interact with peers and the instructor. A variety of different types of learning activities help to engage students.
Well designed and simple to navigate.
It is very important to develop content that focuses on sensory experience and not just through presentations.
Key points learned are the organizational structure of the class along with quality media enhances student learning and involvement with course.
I would like to ensure that my instructions and assignments are organized and well discussed and prepared for so that the students don't experience any frustration during the week while completing assignments.
If the student can navigate the information readily, they will be more apt to participate and engage more in the learning subject.
Encouraging students to have peer to peer interaction. Checking to make sure students are comprehending material at regular intervals.
Student engagement correlates with enhanced critical thinking skills and improved knowledge retention. By actively involving students in the learning process, educators create an environment that fosters deep analysis, comprehensive understanding, and long-term retention of acquired knowledge.
Distance learning requires a student-centered approach that caters to different learning styles and engages students in various instructional experiences. Students can actively participate in the learning process by including interactive activities like group discussions, virtual field trips, and synchronous class sessions. Interaction with instructors and peers fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills and students' engagement and contributes to their overall growth and development in the online learning environment.
Online courses often require more time, not less.
Clear indication of outcomes - what can we do once we complete this course - before activities or LOs.
I appreciated the non-education relevance of structural integrity presented, as well as the 4 characteristics of online courses in general. As an A&P educator I link characteristics of something to that something's function.
The importance of an online course is easy to navigate. The course content includes media strategies along with interaction.
I have learned about the 4 major qualities of an online course and how developing courses around them benefits the learner. Having a course that is easy to navigate is the first step to delivering a successful online course.
I found very interesting the data provided by the NCES on 2018-2019. According to them, 21 %. of public schools including the charters, offer at least one course entirely online. Also, only 6% of all public schools offer all their courses either onsite or online.
