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.
The idea of anonymity is good. I think that students who are offered the option of communication via an alias could provide a safe way of expression.
I found the idea of allowing students to contribute to conversations using an alias surprising. I had not considered that approach to increasing communication among students who typically do not communicate. I can see how that could be a great tool to use for a blended course as well.
I learned the eight tasks to make sure students build sppropriate learning scaffoldin. I believe the first and last on the list, Provide clear instructions and create momentum are the most important steps on my end to get the students engaged and to keep them engaged.
I have learned the importance of a strong syllabus. It gives clarity and direction, it will also improve communication.
Appropriate scaffolding is probably one of the most challenging tasks when building a learning environment. Often times students will come into an environment with inefficient methods of learning and may even be prone to self-sabotage. The instructor should take some time to recognize these students and highlight the benefits of scaffolding and work to build and environment that will strengthen effective learning habits for these individuals. A dynamic and well planned syllabus can be the first step to providing this kind of support.
Syllabus should be dynamic and provide as much instruction and resources as possible.
Student build from previous knowledge, skills and experiences so scaffolding should have 8 tasks to help students build.
Clarity in expectations is key. Clear, consistent messaging will help with scaffolding and lead to student success.
First to make sure to keep on top of the studnets that they stay on the topic of the course.
But the best line I read in past few seesions which helps me focus on the students needs:
"students need to focus on learning with the technology rather than learning from the technology."
Using online tools to help students build knowledge and skills in an online platform.
