Angela Arocha

In this module I learned the different challenges that you can encounter when implementing Active Learning.  The challenges can be with the students, instructors, the institution, or technology.  It is important to communicate the significance of Active Learning to the students so that they can understand the benefits in their learning process which includes critical thinking.  As instructors we need to change the traditional way of teaching (lecture) and implement innovative methods.  We also need the support of the institutions we work for and to be able to troubleshoot any technology issues we or the students may encounter.      … >>>

In this module I learned about the importance of Active Learning in an online environment to assist students to become engaged and to facilitate learning.  The instructor becomes the facilitator of learning the concept and the student becomes accountable for their learning.  I like the thought of using different active learning strategies including gaming, group activities and case studies.  It is important for students to learn a concept (through active engagement) rather than just memorize it and then forget it.  The Core Elements were also discussed I think reflective writing, peer teaching and games are very useful in accomplishing the… >>>

In this module I learned about the resources that are available to build or enhance a Virtual Lab including the use of Reusable Learning Objects, such as the one found in "MERLOT".  The importance of having this component in the online learning environment brings a sense of realism into learning such as using simulation and gamification.  I like the thought of having students engage through this method to help them increase their critical thinking and knowledge. 

In this module I learned the importance in time management and Best Practices for Online Teaching.  The students who are procrastinators will have a difficult time trying to complete an online course successfully.  It is important to have frequent check-ins throughout the course and give rewards or recognition to the students to keep them motivated and engaged.  I like the thought of incorporating games to reinforce concepts and have the students remember the topics being taught.   

In this module the barriers and concerns associated with online courses and student engagement was discussed.  I like the idea of having students do a self-reflection in a blog this can also encourage other students to get involved.  It is important to get the students actively involved in their learning especially in an asynchronous environment, where they may feel isolated.  I agree that instructors in an online environment are facilitators and need to facilitate the learning for the students by giving them clear and precise instructions and timely feedback.  

In this module I learned the differences between Asynchronous versus Synchronous online learning.  The value of having each type of method either together or separately for online teaching depends on the course you are teaching and how you implement it.  I also learned  the learner can test themselves using "VARK" or "True colors" to find out what type of learner they are and this can assist the instructor to be more effective in teaching the course.  

In this module I learned about the basic principles of Instructional System Design ((ISD) including the design, development, and media strategies that can be implemented.  It is important to use this information to analyze the ISD that already exists for a course and modify it as needed or to use it as a template to begin this process.  I found the media strategies (six) to be very interesting when we are thinking of innovative methods to implement into our online course.    

In this module I learned about the application of critical thinking for the student when developing a Syllabus. The grading criteria was analyzed including the Quizzes.  Quizzes should be used as morale boosters to help the student build confidence.  Reviewing with the student what they did wrong on a quiz, in a timely fashion, is important to assist them to improve on the Exams.    

In this module I learned about the importance of incorporating guest speakers, synchronous and asynchronous discussions in the online format.  This module gave you different types of discussions that you can use with your students to have them engage in the classroom and improve their learning.

In this module I have learned that structual integrity and navigational simplicity are important when designing an online course.  The more structure the course has with navigational support the better the students will be able to learn.  Engaging students in their learning can increase their intellectual interactions and assist them in improving.