With face-to-face classes, instructors are able to meet students first hand and guage how they learn and what their strengths and weaknesses are so that they can figure out the best ways to help students learn. In online classes, however, instructors are not able to do this and so it is harder to figure out how each student learns best and figure out the best ways to assist them. This is why a self-analysis inventory is important for students to do when taking an online class; this is a great measuring tool for instructors who can not learn first-hand about the students' learning abilities, and will help the instructor learn what works best for each student so that the student can be engaged and learn in the class.
I think it is extremely important for students to take a self-analysis before starting an online course. Online courses differ greatly compared to face to face instruction. If a student takes an inventory, this can prepare them for struggles that they may face while in the course. Attacking a problem beforehand head first can be beneficial. I did not like the online course I took in college because the structure was too loose, I need more guidance while taking courses.
William,
You are right. It can provide a great "roadmap" for both the student and the instructor to use technology more efficiently as well as provide "differentiated" learning based on outcome of self-analysis and resources available.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
It provides information on the course.
It provides feedback textbook.
It tells us if they use online resources like library, learning materials, live chats, tutoring, or labs like for PPT, APA, or English.
It provides the college with feedback as to the instructor, tech support, and media for the course.
It tells us if they would recommend the class, instructor, and college to others.
It tells us if the class was helpful with their program.
It tells us if it helps them with their career choice.
It can tell us the difficulty level of the class.
It can tell us what needs to be improved.
Amber,
I agree. Not all students are suited to do well online. I do think all students can learn to do well if they are willing to learn.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Amber,
I agree. Not all students are suited to do well online. I do think all students can learn to do well if they are willing to learn.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
I agree that this is an important part of the online course. Not all students are well suited to doing online work. At our school we have had several students start online courses, only to find that they work better on campus.
Donald,
Great point. I agree we can develop resources that will allow us to create differentiated learning for each student.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
David,
That is true. It is so important to continue the expectations of the student while helping them develop skills that will serve them throughout their career.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
It is important to ask online students to complete a self-analysis inventory because then the school will have an estimate of the percent of students that will complete the program, and the percent of students that will probably not complete the program. With this information, the school will be better able to help the marginal students complete the program.
I teach a class that is a blend of on-line learning as well as face to face. The self analysis would help the students knowing to what technology they will need, or where they can access the on-line material. With technology changing so rapidly, we can’t assume everyone has the same access. Also the discipline of time management is always difficult when work is required outside of class.
Bob,
Students need to know what they need to work on but also they need to know their strengths. You want them to think they can improve their learning by leveraging the strengths.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Kimberly,
Great post. They need to know if they are ready. Many students have an overinflated opinion of their readiness for intensive learning whether it be online or f2f. Many need a "wake up" call.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Asking students to complete a self-analysis inventory helps determine if online learning is right for them. It also raises red flags that can be addressed prior to the student starting classes. An example might be time management skills. If we can identify that issue up front, we can assist the student with coming up a plan to help and be successful in an online course.
It is important students know and understand the online environment. More importantly, students need to understand if they have the proper skill set to be successful in the online environment. Completing the self-analysis inventory will allow students to review their skill set and decide if the online environment is fitting for their learning style and lifestyle.
The online learning platform calls for a great deal of time and commitment. One who is already a practicing physician may not be suited for the online environment, as it will require much self teaching, reading and studying. Those with busy lifestyles should also carefully evaluate their situation and make a realistic and wise decision before taking online courses.
Do you think the student self-analysis inventory is a sure way to tell if one is suited or not for online learning?
Samantha,
Agreed. A tutorial that explains the course as well as a well developed course is so important. Your encouragement as the instructor also plays an important role in this process.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Many adult learners who enter the online classroom have an idea of what it will be like, only to find knowing how navigate the computer and the internet is half the battle. By determining their computer readiness, willingness to learn without face-to-face interaction, and ability to utilize all tools provided in the classroom students have is needed to start on the road to success. However, many still may not have the confidence. The assessment has helps students to see areas of weaknesses in which they must improve in order to be a successful online student.
Colleen,
Good, remember these students will develop a relationship with you through text. They do it with their friends all the time.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
That is a good point. One of the thing I love about my job is seeing the look on a student's face, after they have been struggling, and I tell them I can tell they have been working hard. I can tell some of my students are not used to receiving compliments, and I consider it a privilege to be able to give them one. I will take your advice and do this with my online students.
Colleen,
You are right, Don't you think they also need to know their strengths? There is so much power in finding you can do something well.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
