I learned that it is a wide variety of ways to communicate with online learners, and allowing feedback from your students can help these ways be effective moving forward. Also, setting clear examples and times for certain communications helps set boundaries and give you a work life balance.
There are so many different ways technology can be used in the classroom beneficially. You may have to try out a few different types until you find the best fit.
there are several tools to effectively communicate with students in an online environment. It is However, it is important to assess and reflect on a tool’s effectiveness to ensure proper usage and productive communication.
As technology grows, teachers must learn to evolve and adapt. Twenty years ago, I never dreamed of teaching students online or in hybrid classes. Since we are in the making relationship business, we need to be effective in all forms of communication.
I learned that you should survey the students for opinions on the effectiveness of technology.
I learned that you should survey the class for their opinion to see what is and what is not working.
I feel it is important to keep up with the various tools available for our tech-savvy students. Asking questions and expanding our own knowledge is very beneficial to the students.
Hi,
I have learned the value of using various methods of communication. To date, I mostly use email, frequently asked questions, discussion boards and Teams. I have not used personal methods like phone calls. I also see the value of asking for feedback during the course (which I have not done) as well as in the evaluation at the end of the course.
This is a good module for those who have never used online tools, but for most of us, we have first-hand experience with most of these tools.
It is important to asses the effectiveness of technology tools by obtaining feedback from the students. You may need to change the methods you use to improve student outcomes.
find out what the functions are to see what is best to use
Evaluating communication between the instructor and student is helpful to obtain feedback and changes.
From this module, I’ve learned that choosing the right communication technology tool is not just about convenience—it directly affects how well messages are delivered and understood in an online learning environment. Tools like VoIP, email, social networking, and even texting each have strengths and limitations depending on the context and purpose of the communication.
One key takeaway is that matching the tool to the function is essential. For example, VoIP tools like Zoom or Skype are great for building connection through voice and visual presence, especially when introducing a course or supporting students who may be struggling. On the other hand, text messaging should be reserved for quick reminders, while email is better for detailed or sensitive information—but even then, email overload must be managed through clear protocols.
Going forward, I intend to apply this knowledge by thoughtfully selecting communication tools that align with specific instructional goals. I’ll also assess these tools regularly, using both formative and summative feedback from students to improve engagement and clarity. Most importantly, I’ll provide students with clear communication protocols and ensure accessibility, especially for tools that require setup or special equipment.
By using these strategies, I can support a more inclusive and effective online learning experience.
I learned the various technology communication tools that can be used for online courses. I also learned how social media may be used effectively as a communication tool in the online environment. Finally, I learned what Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and how it can be used with products like Google Meet, Skype, and Zoom.
I learned that a good class needs good communication tools for learning better. We should get feedback from students and evaluate tool's effectiveness for modified or replaced them.
I have yet to try using any social media when teaching online courses, however, it does seem as though it could be a very effective way of sharing supplemental materials to students. If I am scrolling through social media and I find an article about a topic related to what we are discussing that week in class, I can instantly share it.
I have learned that I am very far behind using technology (apps etc.) for communicating with friends and acquaintances, let alone using the technology in the classroom for instructional purposes.
There are many options for communicating. Social media is not excluded from this. One great use for X that I have seen is math solutions communication I2S, S2S and S2I.
I learned to evaluate whether the chosen technology is enhancing or hindering communication.
It is important to use the right tools to communicate effectively in an online environment. There are several technology communication tools available and each one can enhance communication and each one will also have its challenges with use. During the course, it is important to determine if the chosen tool works effectively and if it does not then changes need to be made to improve the communication process. Asking pointed questions about the tools in an end of course evaluation will also help determine if the tool works as intended or if changes are needed.
