I am learning the difference between asynchronous and synchronous instruction. I plan to apply the asynchronous modes of participation of students and how to get students involved. I also will give immediate feedback to students.
Asynchronous discussions have been a standard mode of interaction for all of the online courses I've taught. In some cases, optional synchronous chats have been offered, but these usually have exceptionally low participation. Working synchronously in an online environment is very difficult because of time zones and work/family schedules.
Matt Wilkerson
I like the idea of asking students, if they are getting what they need in the course?
The discussion board is a great way to keep students engaged in the online environment. In addition, the discussion thread is a great way to establish a consistent "presence".
The information regarding online learning styles was great! I can see how to address those styles most effectively
Synchronous teaching online keeps everyone on pace with the course in real time, where asynchronous lag a little. I can see this for diffrent situations.
In my particular case my students will participate in daily, sycronous video-enhanced lectures with more of a fact-finding discussion to post afterwards. Since we do have lab time everyday for 4.5 hours I plan to actively address any learning/participation issued in person. I'm planning on having a fun discussion topic that is more of a "DID YOU KNOW? where students research the history behind a given preparation or cooking technique. I believe this method may spur curiosity among the dependent learners and move them into a more participatory catagory.
Requesting feedback often and sincerely is critical in order for the instructor to know if the student's expectations are being met, ways to improve the class and ways the instructor can improve the presentations of the materials.
Engaging students through conversation in an online course can be both a good and bad thing. It allows for the more introverted students the opportunity to engage in discussions without the stress that can come from an in-person discussion. For me, as an instructor, it is important to encourge the discussions and be careful with wording. Encourage, while still ensuring the students get correct information.
Constant feedback in a constructive way is important. Guidelines for answers to topics or questions. Ecourage and facilitate an interesting online learning experience. Be aware of different learning styles.
I think that sperating the students inot smaller groups for virtural discussions makes sense. Mainly becaue I can work with the students' personal schedules a little easier than trying to get the whole class at once.
being more observant to students learning styles will help me tremendously
lots of good ideas that i haven't thought about.
Will definately be using the advice and techniqes
that i learned in this section.
Setting up Rubric's ahead of time for responses and include set times with minutes for greetings and farewells.
Asynchronous discussions are best to encourage participation from students, You should also allow time for students to socialize before starting group discussions to help with engagement.
Using the asynchronous discussion is more effective than the synchronous discussion. When using the esychrouous discussion i need to keep it to small groups. Need to be clear and concise with content and answers while engaging in discussion boards and types.
Appreciate specifying why synchronous discussions are less effective.
This module taught me some benefits of asynchoronous discussions that I was previously unaware of. It definitely benefits those students who are normally shy or reluctant to share in the traditional classroom or synchronous discussions.
Identify differnt types of learners and how to support them.
Pros and cons of Asynchronous and Synchronous styles.
Importance of productive feedback.
My takeaway from this module is to ensure the discussion questions are worded in a direct and uncomplicated way to encourage participation even from those shy students. I will ensure I have timely responses to their posts to give feedback as quickly as possible so students feel supported and remain engaged in the course.
