Managing Students Expectations of the Online Forum
I have found that many students expect to have a lot of information given to them when learning online and so often times they fail to venture out from online methods of data discovery when called upon. In the courses I have taught the students learn much from personal interaction as well as lots of practicing of putting the principles into action. This cannot always be done online. Encouraging the online learner to source information online as well as via other methods has always been a challenge for me as an instructor of an online course where students expect everything to be available online. By managing their expectations of the sourcing process up front and giving them projects that force the student to utilize sources outside of mere online sources, the instructor can avoid any pitfalls of online sourcing in the future. (Of course this is contingent on the type of course taught as there may be courses which information can be completely sourced online.)
Milka,
I love this strategy. They do tend to see the discussion as something they have to do not something that provides learning. I am going to use this in my online courses. This is so important. Use the other students. What a strong technique to create a community of learners.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Milka,
You are absolutely correct with your strategy here. I find that if you start encouraging the students from the beginning they are much more likely to be more receptive. Of course this depends on the student.
Sarah,
You are right. Students need to know we are on their side. Why does it seem at times they think we are their adversary? It amazes me. . .
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
