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.
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.
Este modulo da grandes ideas acerca de los posbibles recursos que se pueden utilizar de manera Asincronica y sincronica.
My institution recently authorized Perusal and I believe I will incorporate its use in future courses to leverage the synchronous chats/discussions mentioned in the second lesson. I believe traditional discussion are dated and have become "check-the-box" assignments and employing synchronous discussions with a tool like Perusal is a two-birds-one-stone situation - students engage with the material and in each other with a single assignment.
Aprendí que las actividades de un curso en línea no son elementos accesorios, sino el núcleo que permite transformar el contenido en experiencias significativas. Las actividades no solo amplían el conocimiento, sino que facilitan su comprensión. El diseño de dichas actividades debe estar alineado con las capacidades del LMS.
Comment on Mike Calendine's post: yes mike the work we give out is for good reason
Good online learning activities need to be clear, engaging, and directly tied to the course goals, and that using both synchronous and asynchronous discussions can really boost how students connect with the material.
I learned the benefits of both synchronous and asynchronous discussions. The young adults taking courses now seem to prefer asynchronous courses to perform tasks at their own speed and discretion
The young adults taking courses now seem to prefer asynchronous courses—do at their own pace around their work or family schedule. I found hybrid works better for heavier topics, where an instructor can explain difficult concepts. Finding a way to have that benefit incorporated into asynchronous learning would be valuable.
I learned from this module that asynchronous learning offers flexibility and self-paced access to course materials, allowing students to review content as often as needed to support understanding. However, without intentional engagement strategies, students can feel isolated, making regular check-ins and feedback especially important.
The module explained that most traditional learning activities can be accomplished in an online environment.
(Also there was a typo in the flashcard about reading skills)
Comment on Nancy Tosh's post:
Hello Nancy,
I, too, have had that same complaint from several of my students. It seems that students gravitate more to the Asynchronous aspect for learning these days. I believe that they like the convenience of being able to participate at any given time within the timeframe of the course due dates.
It is important to create content that also allows the students to complete things at their own pace (asynchronous), as well as synchronous activities that keep the students on track and actively engaged.
I will keep this in mind as I try to create a variety of different assignments
Asking a series of open-ended questions, just as Socrates did, seemed to be a great way to promote class participation and learning. A live asynchronous Zoom meeting could be beneficial by giving students more time to ask questions between assignments, thereby gaining a better understanding of the subject being taught.
I learned that effective learning activities must be interactive, purposeful, and aligned with course outcomes. I plan to apply this by designing activities that promote engagement, encourage critical thinking, and give students meaningful opportunities to apply what they’ve learned.
It seems the most challenging part of designing an online course is how best take advantage of the current technology available. Since technology is constantly changing, this can be a daunting task.
When using a blended method, it is important to maintain a balance between asynchronous and synchronous discussions because learning needs vary from student to student.
I learned the benefits of both synchronous and asynchronous discussions. The hybrid model can create a lively connection, while still conforming to student's personal schedules.
