Angela Arocha

This module addressed the differences between Asynchronous and Synchronous teaching including the advantages and disadvantages of each method.  If both of these methods are done correctly and good communication is established with the students, then it can be effective.  This requires good time management and organizational skills on behalf of the instructor and students.

I learned from this module the different technology that can be used in Online teaching and how you can use a combination of the tools to be more effective in meeting the course objectives.  It is also important to understand an instructor's teaching style and how to maximize each style to assist the student to learn.  If you don't have feedback from the students, you cannot improve your teaching and understand which methods works best for your course.   

This module addressed the issues of students who have conflict (personal or due to  their personality).  These are the most challenging students because you have to assist them to stay motivated and be focused.  Communication and getting to know them is key, it might be challenging in an online platform in comparison to face-to-face, but this can be done.  Guidance for these students is important so they do not loose site of what their goals are.  Learning conflict management and the policies of your institution are also important.

It was interesting to learn about the different online learning styles that you may actually see in face to face teaching as well.  The best methods of conducting synchronous and asynchronous technique was very informative, it helped to distinguish one style from the other.  This information will be helpful to implement when teaching online.  

It is important for your students to get to know the instructor via a biography (credentials/hobbies, etc.) and for the instructor to know the students via a biography as well.  This will help to foster an environment where the student feels they are an individual and a sense of trust can begin to be established between the instructor and student.        

It is imperative to communicate effectively and to assist students with IT and/or CMS issues in a timely manner.  The platform of online teaching can be challenging if you are not prepared as an instructor, even if you are a content expert. You need to learn the CMS you will be using and understand how to assist students.