Comment on Crystal Collette's post: Creating a task list is a great way to ensure all elements for scaffolding students success.
I total agree with the list format.
I have learn to ensure clear instructions in the syllabus for discussion board and assignments. That it may be okay for the student to use alias name as long if you are aware of the who the student is to award points.
Developing different areas within the course for different types of communication is important. There should be a place where students can communicate amongst themselves, students can communicate with the instructor as a group, and also an easily accesable way for students to communicate with the instructor 1:1.
Key here is "next generation" of students.
While developing a dynamic syllabus helps students find and view course information, only providing access to information and technology tools does not create an online learning community. The key to developing an online learning community with a dynamic syllabus is excellent and detailed instructions with good online communication. Doing so ensures that students build on prior knowledge and lived experiences.
I have learned how important a syllabus is. It allows students an overview of the class, expectation, ways to communicate and so much more. I plan on making sure I have dynamic syllabi for the students.
Importance of using web tools to facilitate content. Really helps keep students engaged.
A dynamic study plan is important, but at the same time with a solid structure. It's a live plan. Creating and promoting the online learning community through the mix of virtual tools and channels, I think it is essential. I plan to apply giving credit or recognition in the evaluation for effective participation.
I have learnt about 2 new concepts in teaching; Dynamic Syllabus and Scaffolding.
Dynamic syllabus means the syllabus will continue to be updated based on the developed course modules; scaffolding is building up on the student's prior knowledge.
Scaffolding is a great way to help students use their prior knowledge and apply it to new the material.
I learned trough this module the importance of the material I do create as well as the methods I choose to engage with my students through the various tools available. Every interaction is important to consider and especially the desired outcome of each.
Scaffolding allows students to build upon previously learned knowledge to enhance learning.
Scaffolding and sequencing are important in curriculum and course design to allow the students to build upon prior knowledge
I learned that in an online environment, there are several channels that can help facilitate effective communication (instructor to student [I2S], student to instructor [S2I], student to student [S2S], instructor to group [I2G], group to instructor [G2I], and group to group [G2G]).
Online courses need a very detailed syllabus. I often post weekly annoncements or videos to highlight module topics and expectations for the week. That way they "see" me.
"Scaffolding is the process of building knowledge/skills, and a knowledge/skills structure, based on prior knowledge/skills and experiences. It is the instructor's role to be the "tour guide" to help students map their success in an online course".
I think this is the most important statement when teaching online students. Students will all bring prior knowledge to the course and building on that and their experience will enhance their participation and buy into the programs.
The online tool will help students learn and navigate a method of communication for discussions with other peers
Developing a course plan helps students to know the plan and helps to keep them on top of everything they need to work through throughout the course.
It is important for everything to be aligned and instruction clear to ensure student understanding. Instructors must share what they expect from students in term of communication.
Scaffolding builds upon the prior lessons in a course. Different student will learn the best way they can learn: F2F, multimedia, P2P, etc. Adapt and review the scaffold.
