I never thought of the asynchronous discussion as so important to an online course. I have always been a person that just wants to dive in with the material but I can see how some students have learning styles that NEED to have this interaction to feel connected.
While using asynchronous discussions it is beneficial to provide students with rules or netiquette so they know what is appropriate when posting responses in the discussion.
When learning the difference between synchronous and asynchronous it is important to facilitate student participation and guidance to use the available tools.
it is imperative that online students feel like a part of the Online classroom. Well, a lot of these students today are not necessarily outgoing. It is an important step that the instructor be the bridge between students and they're online classmates.
Participation, engagement, and instructor support is vital in online courses and student success.
I learned that giving feedback/posting in discussions is very assistive student learning.
Synchronous discussions are best done with one student.
I learned the best ways to approach synchronous and asynchronous discussion boards. Particularly that in an online platform, synchronous boards are difficult, as there will be students form different time zones and regions.
I loved this suggestion to use a video-enabled chat tool or video-conferencing platform to engage your students and facilitate the discussions.
Keeping posts informal and to the point is important. The use of emoticons can be helpful to create a nice tone.
It is best to offer synchronous sessions with only one student. Asynchronous discussions can happen at any time.
Very true. Students that are well connected with their work and instructor always show alot more commitment.
It is important to deliver feedback quickly and in a supportive fashion for discussion threads. Due to the lack of body cues, it is imperative that your written work projects support and, if giving negative feedback, that is done in a fashion that is not off-putting or upsetting to the recipient.
One thing that I have learned is that the larger a class size is, the more engagement is hindered, especially for synchronous.
I learned the important difference between asynchronous and synchronous learning, and when I should engage in each of them.
This module showed the importance of asynchronous discussions and how to facilitate them appropriately. I haven't done an online synchronous discussion, but I can see now why these would not be beneficial. I like having the video option at some of my other schools I teach at and think this should be implemented more because it makes it feel more like a community classroom.
Participation is key in any type of class- asynchronous or not. Participation allows students to learn off of each other
Learning that asynchronous discussions can lead to higher participation results. Every student has a different learning style and catering communication style can help each student be successful.
Engaging learners: need to establish netiquette and focus the discussion. Allow for socializing during synchronous meetings but don't let it get away from you. Provided feedback when possible.
Definitely a new realm of teaching for me. The presentations have been very insightful and informative. Provides a better way of teaching, learning new things...
