i like the process of building on what the student already know and continuing that processthey continue to learn new skills. the process is called scaffolding. Thanks for the new terminology
Communication is important.
This module outlined how important a syllabus is to online learning. For online learners, the syllabus is more important in delivery of course content, expectations, and assesment to the online learner. Without question, face to face syllabi must be retooled to contribute success for the online learner. Then through proper communication to the individual and / or the group it must be consistent and meet expectations of the course content as detailed within the syllabus.
Scafolding can be acheived through discussions, through the knowledge brought forth by each contributing student. Students can build on knowledge acquired from others. Having a dynamic syllabus allow it to be shared where studnets can access and utilize at any time. Yet I am unsure why a dynamic syllabus is beneficial, except as gingerbread for easily distracted students.
I am not planning on using dynamic syllabi. This is, among other things, a contract - by nature a static document.
Setting up scaffolding is an import part of making a clear and clean path for students to learn and be efficient.
Posting an interactive syllabus for your course will allow you to incorporate the 8 tasks of scaffolding that were discussed in this module. By using effective communication between the various groups, the teacher can be the "tour guide" to help students map their successes.
I have learned about the importance of a dynamic syllibus. Also, it is important to monitor students progress in online discussions with the class or in small teams.
A dynamic syllabus facilitates interaction and helps the student to navigate yhe different components of a course.
It is important to have/encourage effective communication within your community, therefore allowing your students to build on the knowledge base they already have.
It is important to create an Online learning community and that online resorces can help achieve this goal. In addition, I have leaerned that there are several communication channels which will help to create an online learning community.
Providing clear instruction is sometimes difficult bacause what you find clear and understandable the student may not. You have to make sure that the instructions are clear before allowing the students to move on with the task presented.
Building blocks are key and essential.
Create a strong online community but using discusssion boards, email, etc. Create a postive envirnoment so students feel safe and that they belong, use all the different channels when creating modules, give the students a reason to effectively communicate such as credit, anonymity, etc. and use scaffolding to link the know to the unknown.
Having the most descriptive and straight forward syllabus allows students to be confident and understanding every step of the way during the course.
Having a detailed syllabus with specific information on expectations for assignments, discussions, assessments, group work, etc. will benefit the students more than one would do for a f2f course. Having students "actively" participate in the course through discussions makes them feel part of a community. As an instructor replying to student comments/feedback within the discussions can also help stimulate others to participate.
I learned the importance of design of the syllabus for maximum student success. I definitely plan on revamping mine if i continue to teacch online this Fall.
Delivering a syllibus with detailed expectations of online communication can help the Students succeed in online learning.
It looks like our school system will have a combination of face to face and distance learning this fall. I will need to include specific ways to communicate and address the expections in the syllabus. I also liked the idea of a FAQ section so that the students use the resources before asking me.
Scaffolding allows the student to move toward stronger understanding and, ultimately, greater independence in the learning process
I was unaware of the idea of allowing students to use an alias to participate in sensitive activities.
