Re-emphasis on the point that we all approach the courses that we teach differently
The module reinforced the importance of the LMS technology and the support structures. These support structures remove barriers to student and faculty access. In the absence of these supports, students are bound to struggle. For my part, I intend to develop a more in-depth understanding of the different student supports provided by my institution.
With e-learning the instructor has to know the electronic system and course material along with the IT team availability to assist the online students for a successful transition of learning moving positively forward. Students frustration from computer glitches can hamper their success to move forward successfully in their area of education was enlightening to me.
Understanding the online platform is necessary to be an online or blended instructor. Without an understanding, trying to teach is only going to frustrate the students because you can't teach something you don't know yourself.
Familiarize myself with the management system, course setup up and how to interact with the students. Being able to interact and communicate is essential for a successful course.
The common goal of the course is important for the instructor to be mindful of when conducting a course. Instructors want to teach "their way" but can wander off course if not careful.
I related the things we are supposed to do to the LMS system that we use on campus.
It is important to be efficient in the functionality of the LMS. The better trained I am in the system, the better equipped I am to help students. It is one more layer of student support.
I learned that as an online instructor - there are several ways to interact with the students and make sure that they are undersatnding the information in which you are delivering.
I learned the importance for not only the instrucotr but the student to be familiar with the infastructor of the learning management system and all the funtions it serves.
How to best keep the student engaged and best teaching strategies
support is vital to students' comfort and learning.
I found interesting about the first module is the structure of the online course. I need to figure out how to bridge the gap between in person engineering class and virtual engineering class. We can use any tools and materials to build projects when we are in person. An instructor needs to modify the project with materials that sutdents can find at home. Therefore the virtual engineering class is still fun and engaging.
So far, this course has been a good review of content I understand. I have been fortunate enough to take online faculty training and online course development courses in the past. The main issue I always have to focus on is maintaining faculty presence in online courses.
I learned that there are several ways to interact with students.
I love this training because it is helping me to be more efficiant with online terms and teaching tools.
It helps to walk you through important techniques and strategies when teaching online. Also, It provides sensitive ways to help students to achieve their goals.
In the eLearning environment, it is important for the student to obtain both instructional and technological help. It is also important that the students know I am there to support and help them. This will hopefully decrease their anxiety level when it comes to eLearning.
I have learned that it is important to know how to operate all the functions of a course such as adding to the calendar, posting grades, generating activity reports, etc. If I have any questions, I should reach out to the course author for clarification.
I learned that you can generate student activity reports. I would like to learn more about this and how I can apply this in my courses. The other information was helpful reminders.
