Online classes should have multiple ways for students to communicate and engage with each other. Discussion boards but also video calls, email, and chat can help students and faculty create an online community. We do this by having video calls, offering Teams office hours, and encouraging students to email with questions.
In this module I learned about some aspects of online learning that deepened my understanding of the process.
One of the phrases that stuck with me is Learning With Technology instead of Learning From Technology. Sometimes the simple change in a perspective makes the biggest difference.
The methods for encouraging effective communications were extremely useful as well. Although, it is hard for some students to engage for a variety of reasons, and some just do not want - it is still an extremely helpful information.
I've learned that instructional delivery goes beyond just presenting content—it involves fostering an engaging and supportive environment for students. Key takeaways include the importance of creating a dynamic syllabus that not only outlines the course structure but also communicates expectations clearly. I’ve learned that building an online learning community is crucial for student engagement and collaboration, and effective communication (both verbal and non-verbal) plays a huge role in student motivation and success. Additionally, I now understand the value of scaffolding student learning, where content and assignments are structured to build on prior knowledge, promoting deeper understanding and skill development.
I plan to apply these principles by ensuring that my course syllabus is clear, flexible, and engaging. I will work on creating opportunities for students to connect, ask questions, and collaborate, which is particularly important in an online environment. I'll also focus on effective communication through timely feedback and interactive discussions, and I will design learning experiences that progressively challenge students, reinforcing key concepts step by step.
The syllabus is vital to ensuring communication about expectations for both the student and instructor. It is the basis for the module guidelines and course grades is outlined within the syllabus and is agreed to for congruity.
Making sure the syllabus is complete and clear on what expectations to meet.
Making sure you syllabus is clear and complete because it in the foundation of the course!
Scaffolding can help students learn more precisely by taking it in pieces. This can also allow them to build with knowledge they already have and can make the subject matter more relatable.
I learned about delivering content in a clear and consistent manner through multiple channels such as announcements, and giving the students feedbacks within a reasonable time frame. I also appreciate the idea of scaffolding in delivering content; building from simple to complex, and connecting each lesson to the previous one.
Scaffolding is the process of building knowledge and skills, and a knowledge/skills structure, based on prior knowledge, skills, and experiences. The instructor’s role is to be the “tour guide,” helping students map their success in an online course.
Syllabus sets the tone for the course and learning scaffolding is vital to building on students knowledge
I learned that the syllabus sets the tone for the whole course and should be clear, welcoming, and student-centered. I plan to apply this by making sure my syllabus communicates expectations, pacing, and support in a way that builds trust and helps students feel connected from the start.
Question for the group: How do you make your syllabus feel more like a helpful guide for students rather than just a list of rules?
Key takeaways from this section are the importance of clear and consice directions when it comes to comunication and discussions. Also the importance of the instructor involvement in discussion posts for an online course. From personal experiences, I know how important it is for the instructor to be actively involved in the learning of the students. One of my favorite instructors of an online course went out of his way to check in iwth his students. Because of the instructors presence in the course, it felt less like a typical online course, and more like an inperson course.
Communication in an online class is a crucial strategy for success.
In this module, we learned the importance of providing feedback in online learning. We focused on designing a solid course framework, giving clear instructions, and using scaffolding techniques to support learning. We also discussed creating an effective and collaborative online learning environment.
Building strong scaffolding is critical for excellent learning.
This module helped me realize that instructional delivery is just as important as content design. Even with strong learning objectives and well-prepared materials, the way instruction is delivered can make or break student engagement and understanding—especially in online or blended environments.
One of the biggest takeaways for me was the importance of variety in delivery methods. Students have different learning preferences, so combining videos, discussions, readings, and interactive activities can help keep everyone involved. I also learned how clear communication, pacing, and tone play a major role in how students absorb and connect with content.
Going forward, I plan to:
Use shorter, focused video lessons to avoid overload and keep attention.
Incorporate more interactive tools like quizzes, polls, and discussion prompts to keep students engaged throughout the module.
Be more intentional about my tone and clarity in both written and video instructions, so students feel supported and guided.
Solicit student feedback regularly so I can adjust my delivery to better meet their needs.
This module reminded me that teaching isn’t just about sharing knowledge—it’s about delivering it in a way that’s meaningful and accessible to the learner.
I have learned that even though it's an online format for teaching, that it still requires instructor input, more so than in person. You can still have an "in person" feeling despite the format being virtual.
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.
