Instructors should mix class lectures with group discussions, hands-on exercises, and independent learning to motivate and engage students in the classroom.
I'm relatively new with online instruction and this is an eye opener for me. It is important to keep the student actively involved in the learning process instead of just a passive participant. I have to be aware of the technical limitation of online instruction compare to in classroom instruction. Online instruction requires more time to engage with the student. Motivational engagement is equally important to keep the student on track.
Studies have shown that timeliness in responding to student questions is the most important trait expected by students from a teacher. I always make sure that students are reminded frequently regarding deadlines. Always address deadlines and assignments at the start of the class as part of "housekeeping" in teaching. I also make sure that I have weekly brief one-on-one session with a student. This makes them feel special and also helps me build a better connection with the student as I inquire on how they are doing and appreciate their positive milestones.
This course made me realize even more the importance of a dedicated instructor who explores the use of strategies that keep online learners motiveted and engaged. Developing intrinsic motivation among learners who are not personally present is quite a challenge, but with the use of interactive content, strategies like content chunking, and efficient and effective feedback, online instructors can make their students intrinsically motivated to learn and sustain their interest in the subject matter.
Online teaching is not my cup of tea. Have to dive into it because of COVID. This module has been very helpful. Some things I am already doing but needs some fine tuning to engage the students better, and to provide more constructive feedback to motivate the students. I have to let go of traditional methods of teaching and even though I'm not tech-savvy, to use some of it to reach out and engage the students.
Engaging with online students when they join the "Winess protection program" till the last week of class the procrastinators It is easier to help the willing than to push a rope.
Through this module I learned the importance of student to student interaction in terms of getting students more involved with the course and not just going through the motions. If they are actively helping other students then they are naturally more vested in the course.
I learned that although it is an online class, just making sure you have detailed written instructions, that may not be enough for all different types of learners. I also learned that many students taking online courses will need constant motivation to keep up with their work. I tend to add what I call my "Monday Motivation" to my weekly announcements. It is where I will add a quote for that week. Each quote I select is uplifting and is a small reminder that we are in it together.
I need to improve on using the tools as were discussed to increase the intrinsic motivation n my students. Instead of having them "robotically" in class, I want to make the material perhaps more interesting, as well as more engaging for the students. This way, hopefully, they will become even more involved in their learning process, and feel they are the pimary cause for their own success. They take more ownership that increases their "inner" motivation to learn and achieve.
I really liked the idea of adding a wiki link under the announcement page that the students could create and build. I also liked the ice breaker and introducing some general information about each other to create a better bond between the students and staff. Both are great ideas that I'd like to apply into my courses.
A few things for sure that I have learned:
1. Although I pride myself in timely feedback, I do recognize that it is not always effective and detailed enough. All of these are necessary.
2. I think that creating a social environemnt if important, and although I do this at the beginning, will now begin doing more of it throughout a course.
Over the years of teaching and through this training...I have learned that motivational engagement is important for the learning experience. If learners are enjoying the process, they're engaged...enjoying the material, enjoying the presentation, and are motivated to learn and soak up all that they can learn (like sponges).
Also, it is important to be efficient and effective in your feedback to allow students to promptly understand where they stand in the course. When students know and are aware, they're able to make adjustments if they need and will be successful in the course.
I learned Excellent motivational ideas
This course has reinforced that the student needs connection and anticipation, even excitement for the upcoming class.
Personal communication from me, as well as thoughful evaluation and feedback on their performance, are ways to keep students engaged.
Creating a variety of ways to explain assignments will result in better student outcomes.
Including other staff and admin will let them know that other people are monitoring their progress and cheering their successes.
These are areas that I can easily improve upon.
Engaging students through questions and feedback is a great way to engage students.
I have learned several ways to make an impact through this course.
- Having an impacting and effective introduction and ice breaker
- Making dynamic communication from pupil to pupil and pupil to instructor is key to retention and effective learning
- Identifying learning styles is tricky with online courses and I have learned ways to identify styles and keep all engaged in learning
Students must be motivated regardless of learning in person or online. It is important to break down assignments into managable, meaningful and comprehensive assignments. Open ended questions will ensure meaningful engagement while being specific with assignment content and deadlines. This will ensure the framework for expectations. Student feedback is essential to modify a lesson or assignment for full participation. It is important for students to feel they are contributing in a meaningful way as this can be a powerful motivator.
I have learned that the students really require a lot of support from the teacher at high school level. They are not as motivated as say an adult learning. Their motivation is completely different and needs a good amount of promting and guidance from the instructor. I need to acquaint myself more with the tools that are availible like Nearpod and online games to enhance and motivate their learning experince. Over the course of this year I have tried to change up small things because I felt the big changes only confused them especially those who were hot and cold in the engagement of the class. It has been tough motivating kids this way- such a big change for the majority of students while I did have a few who absolutely thrived in this envirnoment.
You can motivate some students by engaging in a conversation with them about what intrigues them in their carear choices. Why did they they pick this field and what they want out of it. Then you can change your class around on how it relates to what they want and what they gain from it when they mix the two.
I agree with Jessica. This is a point that is even expressed online for younger students. They are on ZOOM and one child is sitting and eating a bowl of cereal. The teacher asked if that was allowed in the school. The point is to make this an area they recognize. The behavior in the schools that are appropriate and not may also be used online.