Laboratory design for asynchronous learning should approximate the actual performance environment as closely as possible. This also applies to simulations. The main points are to ensure good time management, and that students are not overloaded with tasks, so they have time for interaction and feedback. Student-to-student and student-to-instructor interactions are particularly important, and the instructor must provide feedback thoroughly and frequently. All materials should be within the LMS. This course also mentions that students should participate in discussion boards and communicate frequently what they are finding. However, it is not clear to me how that will be accomplished in asynchronous settings, as discussion boards may contain initial postings from students who have since completed their studies, so cannot see responses of other students.
Having sessions for testing and progress checks is important. I like to have sessions where we are going over the more real-world examples. They can then see how this all relates to what they are learning. I give them chances to give their stories and ask any questions. I also encourage more "ambiguous" problems that might have multiple solutions.
Acknowledging students' work/learning/accomplishments by providing appropriate and timely feedback, offering rewards or extra credits, are some ways to encourage/keep student engagement.
This section provides much fodder for thought. The use of labs can put content into a practical application, can help students process the content beyond rote learning, and can provide the opportunity for group interactions, all of which are positive to mastery of course content.
The resource of 7 Principles of Good Undergraduate Education address many of the issues with time management and feelings of isolation or lack of motivation that may be associated with asynchronous learning. Issuing certificates to students when they complete the modules is a good suggestion for imrpoving student participation. Providing clear directions for assignments with examples and a rubric, along with a list or calendar of assignment due dates may alleviate some of the issues related to student procrastination. Contacting students directly when deadlines are not met, is another instructor to student communication opportunity that can support student engagement and success in the course.
I will be implementing a reward system with certificates or badges. Also, I will need to look at other options for an LMS for my program since the current one has its limitations. Especially when it comes to structure and ease of use of the materials and resources. Maybe even creating my own teacher website. Lastly, I love that they gave a checklist for best practices and time management. These will be invaluable when it comes to creating next year's courses.
Students engangement is so important especially for an online class, inserting videos or scavenger hunts is a great way to keep students engaged.
It is important to keep students engaged. Some students get bored very easily or lose interest when they feel they are not receving adequate attention. Instructors/teachers must try to ensure that all students are getting what they need out of the class.
Students that do not have time management skills with find self-paced courses very challenging. Enrolling in this type of course requires self-discipline and motivation. Virtual labs are a replacement for in person labs.
If you do not havecheck points os some other point of accountability you will tend to lose that 20% or so that will only complete assignments if they know they are being watched or held accountable.
checking in on students throughout the course is key with online learning.
Time managment is essential in learning. The learning responsibility is tranferred to the student in an asynchronous environmnt and it may be concerning to educators. A balance can be achieved by using tools such discussion forrms, refelctive summaries, etc. The are several best practices to engage the student, and if these fail actions such explicit instructions, work drafts, goals, deadlines may be helpful as well. An engaged student will result in positive outcomes.
Thought this was interesting: It is important to reward and recognize their successful course behavior.
Commuincation is the key to the best outcomes.
Labs need to assess skill yet be friendly to the environment in which their taught.
I learned how important are awards and recognitions to engage the sutents in a course.
Instructors should include learnig outcome questions in every task possible to assess understanding and mastery
I simulation strategy that I plan to use this fall with my classes is to host a virtual hackathon. I'll have a few challenges for my students to complete and then use peer evaluation to choose the best solution to each challenge.
feedback should include critics BUT also advice and assistance in understanding materials
I learned that students still need to be engaged and be able to communicate with each other on an asychnonous platform. Posting the data for labs aftewards is also helpful.
