Being consistent with different backgrounds
I teach a general education course that has students from ages 18-60. I enjoy the different experiences everyone brings to the table, but I sometimes struggle since many of the younger students feel very comfortable with my online components while older students in their first class feel left out and behind...
Any suggestions to help make this transition easier?
Hi Ryan,
I have encountered the same situations with my older students that are in my online courses. What I have tried to do is to give them several very simple assignments with a minimum of online component use where they can use their life experiences to complete the assignment. What I am trying to do is to reduce their frustration with the technology and develop skill in using it while responding about something they know well--their lives. In other words, the assignment is not that difficult because I want them to feel they can do the assignment so they concentrate on getting comfortable with the various components involved in the online course. Once they are comfortable with the technology I can move them forward and they start working on the course content and they feel secure in this since they have been through using the online format.
Hope this is of help to you.
Thanks.
Gary
