Learning Activities | Origin: EL101
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Designing and Developing Online Courses --> Learning Activities
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
I would like to search for examples of effective synchcronous teaching methods. This is particularly true of technical and medical courses
Comment on Mili Mehta's post:
Highly technical healthcare, and medical topics require deep commitment and focus from learners. How does a distant Ed instructor ensure the requisite rigor is maintained
Comment on Tiffany Heath's post:
Online gaming as a learning too is something I would love to learn about
Comment on Sandra Chicas's post:
Asynchronous instruction enables students to learn and attend to other personal commitments. This is an excellent option for students with financial and/orfamily resposibilities
I learned that asynchronous method is more common now a days, because it gives students the opportunity to take the courses at their time and rythm. The teacher and students have to be available to ask and answer questions on time.
Both asynchronous and synchronous learning require structure and organization. Having a variety of methods keeps students engaged, but those assignments need to be relevant and help to reinforce what students need to learn.
Asynchronous and synchronous learning have advantages and disadvantages. Asynchronous seems to be ever evolving. Variety is the spice of learning. I will use all tools at my disposal.
I learned that common methods of asynchronous learning include self-guided lesson modules, pre-recorded video content, virtual libraries, lecture notes and online discussion boards or social media platforms. Asynchronous sessions allow students to self-pace their work through the course content and activities.
Learning activities offer students opportunities in many respects to make the most of what they have just learned.Assignments, discussions, and email are excellent tools for online students, as they ensure continuous interaction between students and the instructor. Assigning reading pieces, posting questions, and organizing synchronous and asynchronous discussions—including by inviting guest speakers—are excellent ways to ensure that online learners continuously track their learning processes. I like the idea of inviting guest speakers and assigning questions that students can answer in various ways.
This module taught me that effective online learning activities must be carefully aligned with learning outcomes. Course content, assignments and discussions should be designed to help students achieve specific knowledge and skills rather than simply provide information.
In my teaching, I plan to combine synchronous and asynchronous activities. Live sessions will be used for discussions, guest speakers and collaborative problem-solving, while asynchronous resources will allow students to learn at their own pace. I will also regularly monitor student engagement to ensure that learners remain connected and supported throughout the course.
Synchronous and Asynchronous discussions to allow for own pace and staying on track
Interactive learning supports the desired learning outcome we aimed. A guest-lecturer is an attention keeping technique.
I learned how important it is to choose learning activities that match the course goals and keep students actively involved in an online environment. I also learned how traditional classroom instruction can be converted into online learning through thoughtful use of questioning, readings, guest lectures, and both synchronous and asynchronous discussions. I intend to apply these ideas by designing activities that encourage student participation, using online tools to support interaction, and creating a balanced mix of live and self-paced learning experiences.
I have to admit that I have never utilized guest speakers and i think this would be a great addition to my courses as there are so many possibilities.
I look forward to using extra media and guest speakers to engage the student and provide real world application of the concepts they are learning.
There are benefit to Synchronous and Asynchronous courses. Asynchronous allows courses to be completed at a learner's own pace, and is more learner centric. Synchronous courses can be more engaging, while allowing for guest lectures, and students interacting in real time.
I really liked the idea of incorporating guest speakers into the asynchronous learning. Before the guest comes to class to speak, a discussion board question could be created asking students what they would like the guest speaker to focus on or what question they would like to ask. That way the speaker can prepare before the class meeting and isn't put on the spot, which can be stressful for some people.
There are many ways to engage an audience in the fact that there isn't one single one that is the most effective, but a variety to effectively engage the student is a great way to ensure an active learning environment.
