Tina Stavredes

Hi Ann, I think the more you can scaffold the learning experience for this learner, the more likely they will be able to successfully complete activities. We are using a variety of templates, worksheets, and checklists to support learners. Tina

Hi Marcus, can you elaborate on the "Quiet" learner traits? Tina

Hi Marcus, those are great ideas! We have been working on implementing the elements of thought from the Elder & Paul Critical Thinking model in our discussions. We've aligned our grading rubric to the elements of thought and are helping our learners incorporate the elements of thought in their responses. We are also using their Intellectual Standards and asking learners to incorporate them into their responses to other learners. Tina

Hi Amanda, learning styles has a huge impact on learners ability to engage online; however, with the use of multimedia, there are more opportunities to meet the various learning styles of learners. I think social learning styles may have a greater impact on learners in the online environment because it requires everyone to interact in order to be presence. The online environment may not be suitable for learners who do not have a collaborative and participative learning style. Tina

Hi Amanda, I agree with your comment about the optimal ratio being based on the course. It depends not only on the type of learner in your course but also the content. I have actually found that beginning courses need to be smaller because new online learners need more help to adjust to the online environment and develop effective strategies for learning online. Tina

Hi Shellie, you make an excellent point about using different strategies to reach out to learners. I encourage instructors to connect with learners via telephone because they can communicate their concern and support to the learner more clearly. In addition, we have used supplemental instruction with peer learners because sometimes learners can more easily reach out to a peer instead of an instructor. Tina

Hi Brian, one of the biggest challenges our instructors have is getting struggling learners to contact them. We have tried building relationships with learners early in the course using a lounge discussion thread to get to know learners better with the hope that when or if they begin to struggle they may be more likely to reach out. So far, we have had some success, but we are continuously searching for new ways to reach struggling learners. We are also considering a study session each week that is live, so learners can get help. Tina

Hi Brian, you make a good point about the mode of delivery based on the subject matter. Although I have seen math delivered online successfully, most times having some synchronous component is necessary. Tina

Hi Samuel, I agree that "little steps" will help this learner build confidence. I also recommend that you speak to this learner via telephone to go over the issues and as you stated reassure her about the support available. Tina

Hi Shellie. In addition, learners with poor academic skills struggle more in the online environment, so they may be more successful in a f2f learning environment. Tina