One benefit of online learning involves course rigor and professor expectations. The same grading standards apply to on-campus and online learners. As a result, online courses prepare students for their future just as well as on-campus courses. Additionally, accreditation agencies evaluate online courses and approve only the best ones.
I liked the information on social networking sites. Also the infrmation on learning spaces was informative.
Many students learning in the online environment see synchronous meetings as a way to develop a relationship with the instructor and feel more a part of the learning community.
Understanding user interface and comfort level with different platforms/tools/software is very important. I liked the idea of assessing user knowledge upfront and creating tutorials to assist students to get the most out of the technology tools.
How much social media plays a big part in learning .
Having a variety of technical tools in your toolbox for instructing is critical.
Make sure students can use the technology needed for the class. Check for students understanding on the type of technology skills that will be needed.
Just repeating more of the same, with different ways to reach out to students, blogs, etc.
Developing an environment in which students can work collaboratively impacts relationship building as various technologies enhance the experience.
The techinical skills (synchronous communication, asynchronous communication, use of technology, online learning space, social communication) needed to do well in an online course are described in this module.
It's important we don't just assume a student level of technology competences. Asynchronous allows student to log in when needed and complete their needed tasks
There are a lot of little technocal skills like copy and paste that we assume the students know that they struggke with at times. These things need to be addressed in order for the students to have success.
An overarching theme in this section on technology is that instructors should never assume their students have all the required technology skills. Therefore, when I choose to use technology tools, I will assess the students' ability to utilize it first.
Various types of online resources can help create a more dynamic interface for students. Using social media platforms with which they're likely already familiar with may help integrate learning as they cross different platforms to discuss ideas.
Synchronous and Asynchronous communication is used online and face to face. Asynchronous allows the student to access the material on their time schedule but too much of that doesn't really allow the instructor to build a relationship with the student. Using Social Networking should be kept to a minimum unless using specific sites.
Technical skills may also be limited by the devices provided. I have had students who cannot do assignments because of them using the iPad instead of a desktop or laptop. In fact, I have parts of an entire class that CANNOT be completed on the iPad. These instances have been brought up multiple times and still the devices are being given. Some may say to tell the students to use their own PCs, but I have had students who do not have them and are then stuck. They have to hunt and find a PC or schedule time away from other labs to do the work on the school PCs.
As a CNT instructor most of my students have a good basic knowledge of computers.
There are a variety of tools available to enhance communication in the online environment. You must consider what you wish to achieve when selecting a tool for communication.
Understanding the various types of technologies that are availble for online learning. Being able to utilize some of them are essential for all parties involved. Understanding which tools work best with asynchronous and synchronous learning.
I learned about how it is important to be proactive with "how to" videos and guides at the beginning of the course to help students alleviate anxiety and reference when they get stuck.
