Delivery Methods
Hi Dr. Wilkinson,
The course content created for a face-to-face course typically wouldn't be appropriate for an online course because of the differences that exist between the face-to-face classroom and the online classroom.
In the online classroom students really need to do more of the learning on their own. The content of the course must be organized so that it facilitates this.
Thank you.
Susan Ceklosky
Aundrea,
You really show flexibility in your online teaching! I think many think an online course cannot be adjusted for learners during the course itself but I disagree. You can tweak an online course just like you can in a f2f course. It just requires creativity and flexibility.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
This is very true. I tend to modify delivery methods frequently. Every class is different, and each student has a different learning style. I find that each semester (or every other semester) prompts me to make shifts in the delivery methods in order to enhance the learning process based my own assessment of the students' work, and student feedback. I also ensure that it complements my teaching style so that I can ensure that the learning outcomes are met each term.
Natasha,
That is the challenge and the opportunities we have teaching online. For many we are the connection to the real world or the conduit for students to share the real world.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
I teach a variety healthcare classes and can directly relate to the need to modify courses. Healthcare topics constantly evolve and updates. For that reason, course content often need updating so students have the most recent and relevant information.
Maureen,
How smart are you? When we first started teaching online we thought EVERYTHING has to be front end loaded in to the LMS with little regard to adding to as the course progressed. I add itemst to the course just like I do in my f2f course. It enhances the learning.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
When I first started on online teaching I was really following what I did and concerned that I was doing things right! Well, I found out over time that things can be improved through asking other instructors and study ways of changing class performance and out come. Love now the studying of what changes I need to make, and suggestions from others.
Joi ,
Thank you for sharing your strategy. I also have had someone do a peer review of my online course. It can be very beneficial.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Heidi,
I agree that I am always modifying my delivery of items because each classroom is different. I sometimes find that I have used the same technique and didn't realize it was not as effective until classroom number 30 points it out! So it is always good to evaluate one's delivery and grow each year. I always try to find something new and interesting to discuss or a different technique to get to my students. Great question!
Karen,
I have started using it and it does work. . . for now. You are right, you are always looking for new ways to use technology.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Yes, modify and keep current with the delivery methods. I am now using texting which works incredibly well. I can email a student several times, with no response, but a text often will result in a text back! The student some how feels you trying to reach out personally to him/her.
Kelly,
That is a great use of assessment. It is important to look at those comments to help improve learning. I think we need to tell students how we use their comments also. Great post.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
I continually update/revise the course content, especially based on the student's comments/evaluations. Little tweaks to the course can make a big difference to the students.
It's important that you're reaching your students in ways they can understand and relate to. There's always room for improvement!
Thanks,
Kelly Schwartz
Keith,
How do you get them attending the chats? I find most instructors have problems with attendance in the chats.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
I have found that the delivery method that works best is the live chats. Although having a variety is good for all types of learners.
Genieve,
What a great point! I have seen faculty keep "rolling over" content from one period to another and the clutter becomes overwhelming. I also know that for some LMS's begin to have operational problems when there is so much content in a course module.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Hello Heidi,
I think that it is great to always perform some type of "spring cleaning" if you will with course content.There is so much useful content out there that if should be reflected in the classroom.
Genieve
Lyn,
What a wonderful way to work on improving a course and improving the learning environment. You really have to set egos aside but you hope that everyone want to better the learning environment. Conversations about teaching and learning are usually always productive for all involved.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
This is an excellent subject point.
Assessment of the course by instructors and developers is critical to creating a successful course.
As instructors and developers, we like to review course content as a group. Identifying what works, what doesn't work and why. Tweaking is ongoing. Taking note of, then testing the level of student success along with reviewing student feedback has proven to be quite helpful in improving class content and retention.
Sometimes, it's hard to get the ego out of the way, especially when you've been the one putting it all together. However, the process indicated above really helps make a better course for all concerned.
Kevin,
You make such a great point. You do need a way to give feedback to the course developers when something is amiss or can be improved. You are the one navigating though it. Do others have this opportunity?
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
