Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Hi Amy,
You are right about students having the need to feel connected to the instructor. If they feel they have this connection they are more open in their discussion and questioning.
Gary

Amy Ode

I have found when I teach online that students really enjoy the personal attention when I can give it to them. I try to respond to every student in every discussion board and tend to email each student individually at least one time during the quarter. In an online envoironment students can feel like they are not connected to the instructor, and if I can make a connection I find that they tend to try harder on their assignments.

Sara Fine

Thank you, Dr. Meer.

Sara

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Hi Sara,
You are extending your professionalism and personality to your students. They know you care and that you are there to support them when needed. Also your use of the Socratic Questioning method gets the to really think and analyze situations. All of this leads to the conclusion that you are offering a balanced and comprehensive approach to instruction that produces great results. Keep up the great work!
Gary

Sara Fine

Hi Dr. Meer,

I tend to become very involved with my students. It's important to me to see that they are successful in their educational endeavors. I've used several methods to get my students involved.

I let students know through the use of constructive feeback that their answers are important and worth reading. While complementing them on their responeses , I also offer constructive criticism that allows them to build their self-esteem and encourages them to continue their contributions.

I use the "Socratic Method" of questioning which generates much discussion.

A third method I use is to instill in my students a sense of trust in me that I will be there to help them if any issues arise.

Sara

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Hi Sara,
Right you are about students needing feedback and feeling included in the learning process. As we get more information about the best way to offer online instruction we will continue to develop strategies for including students. What are some of the methods for getting students involved that you have used effectively?
Gary

Sara Fine

There are many ways to motivate students in an online environment such as offering constructive feedback, responding to students in a timely manner, and letting the students know that you are there for them when they need you.

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Hi David,
You make a number of very good points about how to conduct yourself as an instructor as well as how to meet student needs. Keep up the good work.
Gary

david kalicharan CHEP

This is obviously a challenging position to be in, however, we have all had to take the fist step to creating our own experience and develop skills that will guide us through future challenges.

My suggestion is to read and understand the syllabus in terms of content, graded items, assignments, due date, etc.

It is also important to understand that the golden rule applies to everyone. Make sure students' questions and concerns are completely and appropriately taken care of and on a timely basis. For example if response is required within 24 hours make sure their expectations are met.

Gary Meers, Ed.D.

Hi Amanda,
Online teaching is a different experience for instructors as you are learning. Having taught online courses for a number of years I have found that student motivation can be increased by developing student groups working on case studies or trouble shooting a problem. They set their own group times and then mutually solve the problem or answer the case study. They enjoy this opportunity to work together.
Increased retention has come about as a result of developing a relationship with that student that is not jumping into the discussions or groups as much as is desired. Individual attention to this student seems to help a lot. Though all of us that do online teaching are still working on techniques that are effective. Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.
Gary