Jane Leight

Discussion Comment

You bring up an interesting point about introverts and extroverts and their preferences for asynchronous and synchronous discussion methods. I am wondering if these preferences have as much to do with personality types as they do with learning styles. The literature dealing with the benefits of online learning is full of references to the "shy" student who sheds that shyness in the online environment. Do you think the introverts will still prefer asynchronous discussions if the class is completely online rather than hybrid? Will they open up if they don't feel that others are watching them? Thanks for sharing your… >>>

Jane Leight

Discussion Comment

Online assessment methods...

It seems that you have one of those courses that does not easily convert to an online medium. I agree with your assessment that a portion of the vocational domain may lend itself to the online environment, however, keeping in mind the special needs of your students, can you think of any activities besides synchronous chats in which your students can engage? I am thinking of things such as puzzles, short quizzes, etc. Thanks :) Jane

Jane Leight

Discussion Comment

Online vs. traditional education...

Your response indicates that online education has really come a long way toward gaining acceptance in the last few years. You make a terrific point that a candidate who possess the qualities it takes to complete an online education will also make a good employee. Thanks Isaac --- Jane Leight

Jane Leight

Discussion Comment

Online vs. traditional education...

Elaine, You bring up a good point that online learning has made terrific strides in the past several years and that it is gaining acceptance. What one point would you make to someone who expressed that they felt that online learning is not as good as traditional learning?

Jane Leight

Discussion Comment

Online vs. traditional education...

Kelli, I agree that the accredidation of the institution is a very important consideration when assessing a candidate's education. You also made an interesting point when you said that the quality of the courses can be higher. In what way(s) would you find an online education more desirable than a traditional one? Thanks for your input! Jane

Jane Leight

Discussion Comment

Online assessment methods...

Kelli, It is encouraging to see that you use a variety of assessment tools in your course and, I agree, all of these tools would translate very well to the online environment. Since presentations are the largest part of their grades, do you think that eliminating the "live" aspect of the presentations, assuming that the course is taught completely online, would lessen the educational experience for your students? Jane

Jane Leight

Discussion Comment

Online course design specification...

Kelli, As a communication tool, a Design Specification Document is invaluable. As with any communication tool, however, there is always the risk of miscommunication. Can you think of some steps to follow in order to ensure that both parties are indeed speaking the same lanugage? Thanks for your input. Jane

Jane Leight

Discussion Comment

Online discussion methods...

Kelli, You make an excellent point that students have different learning preferences. In light of that, would you give them the choice between participating in a forum discussion or a chat room discussion or would you prefer that they engage in both methods? Also, which method (synchronous or asynchronous) do you think is more effective in creating "community" in the online classroom? :) Jane

Jane Leight

Discussion Comment

Online course design specification...

You make two really good points in your post. Taking the time to create a design specification can save on development time as well as address the feasibility of the project up front. Some developers, however, prefer to use a prototype approach because it allows design and development to happen simultaneously which, in turn, saves time. The best approach really depends on the dynamic of the course, customer, and development team. Good post!

Jane Leight

Discussion Comment

Online assessment methods...

It sounds like you have all bases covered when presenting material to students with different learning styles. Do you have as many options when assessing the learning that has taken place? Do you use online objective exams and quizzes or do you find that essay-type questions are more suitable? Just curious. :)