oh so true....quality control is a must.
Yes there are many types of things we can offer online for different learning styles...keep an open mind while developing a course.
thank you! Yes every course should have some sort of quality control....where someone is looking for broken links or spelling errors.
I agree with this statement, because the layout of an online course makes a difference in how students retain information. If items in the course are difficult to find and are not properly organized, a student will have a harder time getting what they need and successfully comprehending the material. It's also important that students feel comfortable in their online classroom setting, so that they don't get discouraged and are unable to complete the course.
While it is difficult to do, I think you're right. For the different learning styles, it is a matter of providing different types of activities. I like Sherry's idea of using crossword puzzles and things of that nature. I also think that it is a good idea to have students do something that is kinesthetic. For instance, I have a colleague who is a geology teacher, and part of the materials for the course includes a geology kit complete with rocks and a magnifying glass and other stuff. Students may discuss their findings online, but they are actively engaged with kinesthetically with those rocks.
Tara
I agree. I think that an online course has to be user-friendly, and part of that means having a welcoming environment for the students to "click" into. One of the things I have learned as a Quality Matters reviewer is the importance of having a Welcome message that gives students an idea of where to go. Some learning platforms are easier to navigate than others, so this is especially important for new online students.
Once students are in the course, graphics and other eye-catchers help to draw the students' interest. Even in a course that is heavy on the information, a few graphics can help the students to stay on track.
Tara
This is very important but the look and feel should be tested with focus groups and instructors before the course is offered.
First impressions are very important!
I agree. Once students feel comfortable with how to access the required information, then everyone can focus on the actual learning experience.
Yes, first impressions can make a critical difference with almost any human transaction, but particularly so, it seems to me, with exclusively online interactions. The use of select multi-media, group interaction, guest lecturers online and a student-centered approach to learning makes a lot of sense in any classroom, but online those options for learning seem even even more accessible.
As an online student myself, I am drawn to assignments that are visually stimulating and challenging yet still accessible and well-organized. Also, if the facilitator is responsive, caring and knowledgable, this can be successfully reflected through their choice of assignments and how they are presented, focused on, and even assessed online, which helps, since I would be expected to give as good as I get!
I'm wondering, does the idea of first impressions have an impact in other areas of online learning?
and if we do not like them how can we expect our students to like them!
All boils down to first impressions.
Agreed. Without an accessible online "look and feel" the course will be viewed as not accessible for varied learning styles.
Hello Shelly,
I agree. In my very limited experience with online coursework I have found some platforms to be primitive in design and lacking in visual appeal. While the content was acceptable, I would have enjoyed more varied fonts, syle and graphics.
i believe that the look and feel of a website is judged by individuals in different ways. whats important is that the info necessary for the student to succeed is freely available and not confusing or technically difficult. a classroom , online or not, is a place of LEARNING, not a comfortable lounge.
Good point, students want to learn from an expert.
I agree to a point -- look and feel is important but without the appropriate knowledge and skills the learning experience may come off as all show and no go. Proportionally I think it's 70% knowledge and skills and 30% look and feel.
Would you like to see the instructor have input into the design?
