Limitations and Misconceptions | Origin: EL113
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Active Learning in an Online Environment --> Limitations and Misconceptions
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
When technology fails it can be a disaster for the instructor and students.
Instructors need to set the tone and expectations at the start of class, inform students that active learning will be implemented, and review limitations or any misconceptions about active learning.
After completing a course on active learning, I’ve gained a much deeper understanding of how learning actually works and how to take a more intentional, engaged approach to it.
The instructor must take into consideration of the different obstacles a student may encounter, to ensure each student has an equal opportunity of completing the assigned task. Instructors must also set the tone and expectations at the beginning of the course for students to understand their roles in the classroom to be successful.
I have learned the importance of setting expectations of roles and engagement upfront is vital. I must be ready to be challenged on this learning environment, but know that it is beneficial overall.
My takeaway from this course is, active learning is an important skill to develop and may be challenging with online classes. Creative strategies must be utilized when teaching online.
The biggest limitation is the students' beliefs about what is necessary to learn and what is not. They do not like discussion boards.
I've learned that it is important to set the tone for the class at the beginning of the course, so the student knows what types of activities and involvement will be required in their active learning process.
Oddly, I've encountered many students of all ages with the "just give me the info" attitude. I think it's up to college admissions professionals to help set expectations about the time, energy, technology, and thought process needed for success in online courses/programs. It is crucial for us as instructors to justify techniques that may be viewed as wastes of time. Some students will take "fun" for what it is, but all need to tie the activities to what they're trying to learn.
Active learning requires thoughtful planning. I plan to use active learning strategies by setting expectations early, using video reflections, and group projects to support my students' critical thinking process.
Implementing active learning activities puts what you are discussing into practice. They are helping to create and/or finish stories in case studies and scenarios.
Students need clear guidelines to feel comfortable in the classroom and faculty need to be conscientious about their role in the learning process.
I learned that online learners may need more guidance than in person learners, due to their confidence of being self-directed
A lot of what I currently engage in was reviewed. I engage online students in a number of activities and discussions. I also love to include humor at the onset of the session and sporadically throughout the course (e.g., cheesy jokes, funny videos that are related to the content, funny online games related to the content, etc.). It is very easy now to develop games and assimilate humor and relevant content into it.
I learned that students still need guidance in an online class
I was not aware of potential student complaints and them not understanding the assignments and thinking instructors are not teaching them. Understanding this will help me guide students, who may not be familiar with active learning, through the process so they can see the advantages.
Though some instructors may view active learning techniques more as entertainment for students, they can actually be quite effective in bringing together students and the instructor in the course.
I have learned that online students need clear guidance and preparation to engage effectively with active learning techniques. I plan to apply this by creating introductory videos and interactive activities that explain expectations and involve students from the first week. This approach will help them take responsibility for their learning and participate more actively in the course.
Limitations and misconceptions will occur with active learning. All that information should be reviewed with the students to help them understand their duties and responsibilities as students. Institutions should provide more to help the navigate with active learning so that are successful with this learning style.
