Managing the Downfalls of Synchronous Chat
Synchronous chat is a wonderful tool for stimulating in-lass discussions,but there are still notable pitfalls to it. What are some of the techniques for managing the downfalls of synchronous chat?
Betty,
We all love resources! I would do an extra class if I knew I was going to me taking away more resources.
Shelly Crider
I am hearing through others comments and experience that preparedness of the facilitator is key to a successful synchronous chat. Elements of preparedness include providing resources on the chat topic to learners before the chat and having questions available to keep chatters on topic and stimulated. All sound like excellent ideas from experienced users.
Stephen,
There are times when you as an instructor must do monitoring and maintain chaos before it happens.
Shelly Crider
Only allow no more than two individuals t0 discuss
and subsequently let others come in from time to time. Lessens chaos during the forum
Taiwan,
Throwing in a new direction or playing devil's advocate really helps with discussions.
Shelly Crider
A really good approach to managing discussions during Synchronus Chats is to periodically introduce questions and/or supplementary topics that redirects the group to the point.
Craig,
This happens while I am talking on the phone as well...start off with one subject only to be distracted. Chats can become distracted as well.
Shelly Crider
It depends on the purpose of the chat and how it will be used, or if it will be used, by students who were not in the chat session.
My chat sessions are recorded and available to all students at a later date. I must have a very careful plan and stick to the plan as much as possible to make sure I cover the required content. When students get off topic, I must carefully bring the discussion back on topic in order to make sure the desired content is covered in the time allowed.
There is a fine line between allowing discussion and keeping to the topic at hand. It is almost an art form to keep the discussion on topic and not offend those in the actual session. It is important, however, or those listing to the recorded version will lose interest.
Craig
Amy,
We all like rules otherwise we wait until the last minute and do work that is only half of our potential.
Shelly Crider
I have found that it helps to state expectations and "ground rules" for chats. For instance, if students get off topic, it helps to keep the chat focused with guidelines.
Ronda,
Interesting. I have heard of these programs but have never experienced them. I think I will find one and enjoy the research!
Shelly Crider
Slow typers might adopt voice automation,and formate the screen to time out if a student does not respond to each posting.
Dan,
Even for instructors, if you have a group of instructors who need to get together, it is tough to find one good day and time.
Shelly Crider
Not only the point that you mentioned, but I also found that scheduling of a synchronous chat is extremely difficult.
One solution: schedule two, then post an online scheduler where they sign up for one or the other. It doesn't always work, but adding a "I can't make it at the scheduled times" helps figure out if you need a third time.
James ,
This is a helpful tip. Having students do research and come to the chat prepared will help lead the chat.
Shelly Crider
It is very helpful if students have done some research on the chat topic prior to the chat. Also, it is helpful if the instructor has the opportunity to develop a sense of members of the class who are less forthcoming and possibly direct questions to groups of participants asking each to participate which hopefully will draw those who are somewhat shy into the conversation.
Ekwuniru,
One good idea is to have your chat on a current topic or an ethical topic. Students tend to get involved a little more on these topics.
Shelly Crider
