Managing learning styles
I know from being both a student and teacher myself that it is important to teach to student's individual styles. In an online environment, this is quite a difficult task. Not only do you not meet your students, but you don't see them to get visual clues of learning. I know in some of the chapters there are PPT's that go along with the chapter that can help those students who need to see information. Other teachers are also incorporate other visual learning such as webcasts, etc. I think these will help a variety of learners.
I think it is very important to be sure the online course prompts responses and engagement via online discussions, or podcasts as you suggested. Its always challenging to incorporate multiple learning styles online.
HI Kristine - Good point! I actually dust while on conference calls if working from home! (-;
Best wishes- Susan
Thank you for addressing the online environment, specifically! Yes, it's very difficult to discern each student's individual learning style for the reasons you stated. Therefore, it becomes even more important to teach to the four major learning styles as best we can. I think this has gotten easier over the years with the advancements in technology and this trend will continue.
PPTs are good for visual learners, as you mentioned, and webinars are good for both visual and auditory learners. Those who learn best by reading the written word probably thrive the most in online classes, but I struggle with the kinesthetic learners. I suppose it helps that they are free to take study breaks to walk around,toss balls in the air, etc. while studying without worrying about disrupting the class!
