There are relatively few colleges that are completely online.
A well thought and crafted Canvas course will increase intellectual learning and discover for a student.
Virtual online field trips sounds like it would provide many great learning opportunities
In this module, I’ve learned that successful online courses are defined by four essential characteristics:
Structural integrity: A well-organized framework that supports the course’s objectives.
Navigational simplicity: Clear and intuitive pathways that allow students to access content effortlessly.
Intellectual interaction: Opportunities for meaningful engagement between students and instructors.
Active learning: A student-centered approach that encourages participation and reflection.
To implement these principles effectively, it’s crucial to begin with clearly defined learning objectives. Once these goals are established, the course should be designed with a strong structure—organized into modules that contain lessons, and within those, specific topics. This layered design enhances navigational simplicity, making it easier for students to interact with the content in a logical and engaging way.
To foster active learning and intellectual interaction, I would incorporate dynamic elements into live sessions. For example, students could respond to questions or participate in polls during lectures, guided by instructors. Interactive games or collaborative activities could also be introduced to strengthen peer-to-peer engagement.
The ultimate goal is to create a learning environment where students not only absorb knowledge but also contribute to the learning experience of their peers. Their participation enriches the course and builds a sense of shared responsibility. In the end, this results in a vibrant blend—a true cocktail—of intellectual interaction that drives deeper learning and collective growth.
I think the ease of being able to navigate a course online is as import as being able to teach in person
Online courses need to be engaging to capture the students learning. I was also suprised that 6% of all Public Schools offer all their courses either online or onsite. When my daughter's class miss a day of school they are required to go online and obtain their assignments for the day and do their homework. I think this should be required at all schools in the U.S.
Intellectual Interaction is especially important because it helps to engage the learner in ways such as critical thinking and problem solving.
I found the history of distance education in the US and the emphasis on navigational simplicity of online courses particularly relevant.
Distance learning has changed over time from mailings to online engagement and response. Over 21% of colleges offer at least 1 online course. It is also vital how the online course is presented to the learner. This can enhance or reduce learning.
Barriers to online learning can vary depending on the learner, instructor, institution, and the learning environment. Some areas that can be barriers are
- Technology Access & Reliability
Barrier: Students may not have reliable internet or access to up-to-date devices.
Impact: Missed classes, inability to access course materials, or difficulty submitting assignments.
- Motivation and Self-Discipline
Barrier: Without face-to-face accountability, students may struggle with time management and staying motivated.
Impact: Higher dropout rates, missed deadlines, and reduced engagement.
- Communication Gaps
Barrier: Miscommunication due to unclear instructions, delayed responses, or lack of feedback.
Impact: Confusion about expectations and decreased student satisfaction.
Although online learning offers flexibility, I think one challenge that isn't always discussed is the technology barrier.
Online courses are structured in modules. Each module a main subject of what you are teaching
Online courses or online education is the new platform that instructors need to engage in. The current generation of learners are tech oriented and their use of technology is an indication of education's direction.
Student engagement in online courses can result in increased student retention. It is also important for online courses to be easy for students to navigate.
I completed a MA in Military History online in 2020. Online classes are awesome!
The online learning experience requires the creative use of available multimedia technologies to effectively relay information to the learner and to encourage interaction with the instructor and other learners.
It's important to use the technology in a way that facilitates and centers the students' learning experience. Learning activities need to help them to effectively develop critical-thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as a connection to the other students.
The components of online course design are technology driven and seek to retain learner interest and engagement for retention.
To achieve higher levels of information retention, course content should be a combination of quality media and a high level of intellectual interaction.
The term interaction is used within this context to refer to intellectual interaction with the instructional content; rather than merely clicking. Include interactions aimed at assessing the comprehension of the content that has been studied, or to retrieve and activate additional information the learner can use to promote or advance learning.
