I learned that initiating and managing synchronous discussions are best with one student- but no more than 5 or 6 at a time. Keeping the group small is easier to manage and gives more opportunites to connect with the students keeping them interested and knowing you care about their success.
Student participation is very important. It does not matter which an instructor may use; asynchronous or synchronous, they just need to reply to the students quickly and encourage them to participate.
Synchronous and asynchronous environments require different preparation and different tactics.
I teach both synchronous and asynchronous classes so the information was useful. The ideas for engaging in an asynchronous model were particularly helpful and will aid in connecting with students and enabling the learning process.
I have learned the difference between synchronous and asynchronous work. I also learned that using synchronous work as a method of reteaching is preferable.
In this module I learned how to engage adult student learners online and in person (asynchronus/synchronus). I can make my presence project by initiating and leading discussion boards. I can also post my picture alongside my discussion post and announcement. I learned that the golden standard for projecting my presence is posting a short video message accompanied by the script text in the video. A caution, never feel the need to respond to every post or comment made after the initial response. Never feel the need to remark on every comment made by students in the classroom in person.
My take away from this was how important proper feedback to the students is in encouraging them and providing constructive criticism of their work.
Asynchronous discussions: Happen at different moments, over a period of time.
Synchronous discussion: Real time chat sessions, should NOT be used to discuss important coursework.
Feedback given to students should be encouraging. Synchronous discussions are more challenging than asynchronous discussions due to the potential change in time zones.
The information on asynchronous vs. synchronous discussion was very helpful. I never considered the the way each can be best utilized.
I am not a fan of asynchronous, but it has its attributes. Foremostly is what works best for the students and where they are at and where they are going, and how can we make it the best experience possible.
I will remember to recognize the different learning styles to help keep each student engaged.
Students need encouragement. When providing feedback, online instructors should always be positive. I will remember this when posting to students.
Learning the difference between synchronous and asynchronous meetings and how important student particiaption is for the students, both were helpful learning tools
Identify those learners who are not active participants.
Coordinate the learning activities in such a way that the shy and reluctant learners are lured to participate even though the quality and quantity of their participation can be regarded as being only moderately active.
Create small groups for at least some of the projects. This will provide a less intimidating learning environment in which shy learners are likely to feel more comfortable to express their views and ask questions.
I learned that using both synchronous and asynchronous communication styles will be more efficient with online teaching.
Asynchronous engage content at different time and locations. Synchronous class in in session at same time with instructor and other leaners and the smaller the discussion size the better communication is not misdirected.
Feedback should foster participation, confidence, and motivation from the students.
Creating objectives and goal, having students participate in discussion are great ways to keep attention and participation in the classroom
Placing asynchronous discussion topics on boards help keep all students involved. I learned this is a better route to go to encourage participation by all students. It's important to identify learning styles early to ensure student's success. Feedback is very important to continue to build confidence within your students.
