A building,classroom, learning materials, and instructor are tangible things that initially give a student security and confidence in the course. Likewise for online or e-courses. The "look and feel" of an online course may determine if the student even takes the course and also the initial image may determine the student's expectation for a course and the effort needed to successfully complete the course.
I am so pleased that this module is available as I to am attempting to create an on-line course. I fear that I am too concerned with the show and presentation than the material. You getinstant feedback in a classroom situation. How can one know if the combination of presentation and content is just right?
Hi Shelly,
Agreed. Online learning involves a high level of patience and interaction with both the instructor, as well as, fellow classmates.
Best,
Andrea
The look and feel of an online course is as important as the knowledge and skills designed because all of the areas go hand in hand. If the course design is good from a 'look and feel,'aspect, as far as navigational efforts, the knowledge and skills are also needed to have a successful online course.
Rebecca,
Frustration should not be part of online learning!
Shelly Crider
I definitely agree. One could design a course that addresses important concepts, provides excellent assessments and activities to impart knowledge, and includes the most up-to-date information on the topic. However, if that course doesn't not look professional and organized, students will quickly become frustrated. I think one of the most important qualities of an online course is the ease of navigation. Having taken online courses myself, I know how frustrating it can be when I have an assignment and instructions for completing that assignment, but the materials are somehow "hidden" underneath numerous clicks and links. The feel is also important. The information has to feel relevant and connect with what students are seeking. The instructor also plays a huge role in the feel of an online course. There is a huge difference in taking a class with an instructor who creates a "warm" and inviting setting and one who just posts to be posting.
Sure, as do agree that the look and feel of an online course is as important as its contents. The course design and the online environment play an important impact on students.
Valerie,
Broken links drive me crazy!!! Check often due to the fact they change all the time!
Shelly Crider
Yes, I believe that the look and feel is as important. If students have trouble navigating around or accessing the material, they are more likely to become disengaged. Things such as broken links or outdated materials compromise the structural and intellectual integrity of a course, and are harmful to student learning.
Shelly, yes it is important to remind students to update their java often. The good thing about Java is that it’s free. Java can run on a computer, and nowadays it can run on some mobile phones.
Most universities are preparing to use mobile apps. If a phone can't run Java then the students will not be able to run applications. If this is the case then students must use computers with the java updates.
Darcel,
it is imporant to remind students to update their java often so they will be able to enjoy the class content!
Shelly Crider
I would say a student’s perception plays an important part in regards to the look and feel of an online course. As a gauge consider using the student’s feedback on the visuals, navigation, and sound quality. It is important to consider presenting visuals that have clear pictures, and text. About a billion people or more are surfing the Internet and challenged by browser navigations issues. With all the new java updates, and plugins to download this can be a contest. Having two-way communication is also important so audio plugins may be a discussion. If we cover the navigation, visuals, and communication then the course is well worth it!
Perry ,
"professional and scholarly" experiences are so important for the student. It is one thing to learn about your career in a book, but life experience is always interesing and exciting!
Shelly Crider
Good day,
Your comments support the same ideals I have, Kelley, to a degree. I think that one goal of an online course is to provide information for students without challenges with the navigational toolbar. The composition of the online course room is important to enhance students having confidence about operating well within the course to obtain and apply materials necessary.
I enjoyed reading your feedback.
Respectfully, Perry Spann
Good day,
The look and feel of an online course is as important as the knowledge and skills it is designed to impart. I agree with this concept, and I think supporting students having professional and scholarly experiences in online courses is a basic justification.
Additional reasons are based on the value of students having easy accessibility to navigate through the course and appeal to the course in order to remain engaged in learning.
When online courses are easily accessible, the content is not challenging to read and apply. Considering that reading comprehension can be an issue for some learner, having information displayed in online classes by using formats that are user friendly in online learning environments. As a result, the knowledge necessary to learn can be a main focus and not trying to learn how to navigate the course. The curriculum and skills necessary to learn should be primary focuses, so students should be attracted to the course based on the class having appealing features that help students learn with simplicity.
Functionality is a chief element of using tools in online courses well, and students having positive learning experiences in courses online that are functional and not overwhelming to learn is of value to enhance retention. The look and feel of an online course can enhance students’ obtaining knowledge and skills designed to impart.
Respectfully, Perry Spann
Alfred,
I like how you stated "a great online course set up really helps....". This is so true! A class can make or break an instructor and an instructor can make or break a class.
Shelly Crider
I agree. With todays technology students expect a high level of technology and visual appeal. The couse itself has to "wow" the students and appeal to them. Hopefully it will be easy to navigate and entice them to explore the course content.
A great online course set up really helps an instructor maintain interest.
Nicholas,
It is funny what we as instructors can get caught up in. Check and recheck each and every page.
Shelly Crider
Nicholas,
I like this analogy! Very well stated and oh so true.
Shelly Crider
Not only do I think that audio, visuals, and animations can add an upbeat feel but they also act as a constant reminder to students that the content they are discussing applies to the modern world that they live everyday in. It is easy when reading the material to forget its relevance. A picture or short video does wonders in drawing connections from the possibly dry text to the modern world.
