Instructional Delivery | Origin: EL103
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Teaching Online: A Student-Centered Approach --> Instructional Delivery
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
I especially liked the scaffold analogy of building a framework of learning that we can hang the important principles on.
In this module, I gained valuable insights into creating a dynamic online learning environment that fosters effective communication and feedback. A key takeaway is the importance of a living syllabus that adapts to changing needs and environments. To communicate effectively, I should provide clear instructions in the syllabus and maintain an active presence in the course, encouraging collaboration and community engagement. Additionally, scaffolding learning by building on students' prior knowledge, experiences, and skills is crucial for promoting meaningful learning outcomes.
I learned that when teaching in an online setting instructors must apply strategies such as discussions and homework assignments to ensure students are learning, and are apply to apply what they have learned.
Comment on Lucas Carr's post: I agree but many students simply don't want to participate -- that's a challenge
Good scaffolding builds on what students already know and are familiar with.
In this module, I learned that as an instructor, I need to be effective in building a dynamic online learning environment for my students where communication and feedback are essential to learning the course content. Effective Communication starts with having a dynamic syllabus that changes as needs change and/or the learning environment changes. The key to effective communication includes providing detailed instructions in the course syllabus to start with, then going forward with the instructor being participative in the course and encouraging collaboration between the online learning community members. Another important factor is to scaffold learning throughout the course and build on the students' prior knowledge, experiences, and skills.
I truly appreciate the scaffolding model and believe that it is the only way to ensure success. I did my master's project on scaffolding and love that this model is being promoted at this college!
The syllabus is a foundational piece in establishing expectations throughout the course. Scaffolding allows for learners to put together and use what they already know or learning practices that are already established.
I intend to use scaffolding to assist the students in building on current knowledge. Just as scaffolding in construction provides a firm foundation for the building, scaffolding in education provides a firm foundation for student learning. Without a strong foundation, the students have nothing to build on.
I use scaffolding to help students build on what they already know. We explore case studies and other scenarios to determine what they should do.
Syllabi for the online environment must not be flat and static, it must be dynamic to be truly effective.
I learned that it is important to be specific from the beginning so students are aware of the process and do not have to ask too many follow up questions.
A syllabus is a summary of course information, assignments, and assessments. As with a legend on a map, the syllabus allows you to find components easily and decide where you need to go. It provides students with an outline and a summary of course topics. It typically contains specific information about the instructor, textbooks, student expectations, assignments, assessment, grading policy, and due dates – in essence, a complete overview of the course.
A syllabus is a key component of any course, but it is even more essential for an online course. The syllabus for an online course should not simply be a flat online syllabus, a digital version of the traditional syllabus used in an in-person course. The flat online syllabus lacks certain details and the interactivity needed for an online course. When a flat online syllabus is used, students typically need to download the document and print it out.
I like to distinguish 2 important properties of the online syllabus.
The syllabus as a legend on a map allows you to find components easily and decide where you need to go.
An online course syllabus must be dynamic.
I learned that the syllabus is very important for establishing methods of communication.
Use discussion tools to encourage students to learn and help one another.
I learned the importance of scaffolding to enhance learning and get the best outcomes for my students.
I learned that effective communication is the key to a great online course. Great course!
I learned how important and valuable a syllabus can be for students, especially in an online environment.
