Navigation, interaction with peers and the instructor is the most important aspects of student success. The chat feature might be used well in small groups but not for the entire class. Be quick to respond to requests or issues. Be sure that technical support is available.
So far the course has pointed out a lot of things that may seem like common sense, but are frequently taken for granted. Such as the need for there to be an organizational flow to an online class, ie modules containing smaller sub unit lessons. Also the fact that learning is accomplished more so in a setting where the learner feels supported and like there is somewhere there to answer questions for them. This means that turnaround on questions, feedback, and grades needs to be timely. It also talks about things like making sure you know and follow correct release dates for assignments so that the students are paced well.
I have learned that it is worth taking my and consider the structure of the course as well as the content. It is important to look at the delivery of the material through the eyes of the student and be able to adapt this learning to a digital state.
As I have read through the discussion thread, I agree there is a a need to strengthen the digital divide and ensure the seamless delivery of material through the CMS via technology.
I also feel the need to chunk the material more and break it down into smaller learning bites. I am concerned about overwhelming the student with too many learning parts in a Module.
Instructors must gain and maintain an understanding of the CMS and be proficient in its use. This will allow a better support structure for the learner and create the best learning environment possible.
As an Online instructor for over 7 years, the basic guidelines for reviewing course content, modules, due dates and so forth are not new to me. However, terms such as synchronous and asyncrynous were new to me so I did further reseach on them and realized that our course content is mostly asynchronous using discussion for the most part. Students can navigate pretty easily and a lot of our content is very interactive and gives immediate feedback for grading/performance. What I need to pay more attention to is the variety of way that different students learn and while I usually include videos and examples in discussions and announcements, I may need to explore better how the information is presented in those videos and make my own videos/recordings or simply be more selective based on the content and SLO's.
I am essential to student succes. I must be familiar with the CMS. I must be an effective communicator to ensure student confidence and ease of use of E Learning.
I have learned the basics of e-learning and what it takes to be successful in establishing a new course of action. With the changing times, it is very important to have alternate ways to comunicate with students and allow them to interact with me. I look forward to learning much more about e-learning and sharing it with my colleagues and students.
I have learned that there is a great deal more that goes into preparation for e-learnng than I was aware of. I am glad that I have the time now to take these courses to improve my e-learning strategies.
Students are coming to our classes with a wide variety of experience, internet access and devices. It is a challenge, but necessary, part of the course to try to get everyone onto the same page as much as possible or meet them where they are.
When teaching an online course, I will make sure that I am familiar with the CMS(Course Management System). Make sure that I am clear with my instructions & make sure that my posts are clear
Have understanding of course content. Able to answer student questions regarding course. Know where to find the answers if need and utilize the support team
The e-learning instructor is critical for not only the content but communication with students. The communication provides support to students through email, chat, forums, discussions, assessments and grading. I will use these forms of communciation to enhance students' experiences with online learning.
In an e-learning environment, the instructor establishes a framework for learning. The instructor not only knows the content but can support students' learning through communication - availability times, response times, feedbak and grading procedures, etc.
E-learning environments can be difficult if the educator does not provide efficient, clear and precise information for the learner. The educator has to be able to provide enough material to keep the learner engaged and excited in the course.
I found it interesting to learn what I should know when doing an online course. I already knew some of the items. Some I am going to have to find out.
As an online instructor, I will need to insure that the students computers are able to access the course content and that they are able to access tech support for items such as the loss of a computer connection during a quiz or exam, issue with getting documents and videos.
Each instructor must take the time to learn the structure of the course to ensure success. Communication lines should be open and each question or concerned addressed.
Hi everyone!
In this section, the first topic I learned about was e-learning and its breakdown. The e-learning breakdown includes structural integrity, navigational simplicity, intellectual interaction, and active learner-centered learning. Essentially all of these focus on having a content structure that is user-friendly and outlines all required components early on. In addition to this, the content should be easy to access, navigate, and also be highly interactive to keep the learner engaged. Lastly, the education experience should still be focused on the learner and should include some type of direct access to the instructor through technical/educational support, messaging, or video methods.
The second topic I learned about was that the way the course is delivered by the instructor (me) plays a huge role in the type of educational experience the learner receives. Although all instructors teach differently, it is important to align my teaching methods with the course goals and assignment due dates. Additionally, I am in charge of the grading and points section of the course and will need to accurately maintain that to ensure good outcomes.
-Danielle
Planning and being familiar with the CMS is pertinent prior to engaging students. There are many issues that can arise with e-learning and it's important for instructors to have some basic technical knowledge. I plan to create a structured outline of what I want my class to look like from an instructor and student perspective.
I learned that structure and knowledge are key for the instructor, while the IT department also has a vital role in assuring student access.
