I wish there were a "like" button. What a great suggestion. My school does not require it, but what a great idea!
I think you raise a very valid point, Mara. We all know the students rarely read the course expectations document. Some do, of course, but many don't.
I have found pulling out a "highlights" in a bulleted list helps. I use different colors to make highlights. The less to digest in one gulp, the better. Our students are used to reading writing for the web, which is in much smaller "nuggets."
I also post my own rubrics as well as assignment point distribution, so all is clear. Some read them, and some don't. And so it goes, right?
Repetition is important for them and the more detailed the better. I have found even repeating where things are to be found and submitted helps them. I put things in bullet form as it is fast reading for them. Otherwise they tend to scan the information and miss the details.
I have found that it is important to share with the students what are the course outcomes and carefully explain the assignments and the due dates.
I think that communication is very important to consider. In an online environment I think that you have to use different communication tools. Verbal and written communication becomes extremely important because sometimes what you write can become misconstrued or misinterpreted by the student.
Another thing to consider is equity. There has to be a consistent rubric to follow so that all students feel as though they are being treated fairly.
I agree with grading rubrics are too broad in some cases. I usually give students examples of real material so they would have a better idea what is expected for the next assignment.
In my experience, the two most important things to consider are communication & pre-class planning. I've had students say that they like my class because they don't feel like a number.
So when I give grade comments or respond to emails, I treat it as if it is the only thing I have to do. I don’t concentrate on all the tasks I haven’t done, I focus on the student (& how to help the student improve in the future). When it comes to grades, this can be time consuming (but I start early). I make sure I respond to student email within 24 hrs & I plan well.
Pre-class planning is very important to accomplish all the above. Having a plan and templates can be extremely helpful. Templates are great but they aren't set in stone. They are reminders and not a substitute for personal comments. Lastly, when I plan, I like to set goals not only for the students but for myself as well. So that they learn in the course & so do I. I learn from them, from other teachers and from life. Teachers can be used to motivate & inspire students. I tell my students all the time, I want you to leave this class with a deeper understanding of the subject. Hopefully learning more about yourself and your goals in the process.
As instructors we need to know what we are teaching so that learning outcomes can be identified and focused upon.
Communication must be clear, and if there are questions we need to take time to clarify as needed so that non-clarity becomes clear.
Jim,
You are correct, there are times that the rubrics are to broad, and it would be to our benefit to tighten them up for grading purposes.
I agree with you that communication is extremely important. It sets the baseline for the entire structure of the course and the engagement of the students.
I agree with your statement. I find that students often base their own goals and objectives on the grading process which shows how important that is to learning.
I think that the two most important things would be:
-Establishing and clear and understood set of objectives that the student can follow
-Staying consistent with your objectives in grading and giving feedback. This includes keeping the students accountable and being active in their learning.
Thank you Dr. Wilkinson No need to cite me. I am glad that I can contribute to enlightenment.
-Tracy
Tracy,
I LOVE your post! You are right, we must create "creatures" of good habits. (I am using this. I promise I will "cite" you)
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
David,
Interesting! Yes, fairness would be important. I also like the idea of students learning to engage as receiver and sender. Nice!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Mara,
I feel your pain! Do you have multiple ways for student to find information?
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Debra,
It will allow you to address multiple students at one time. You can create small group dynamics in a synchronous environment.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Amir,
I like your statement of learning in a rhythm. That is exactly what student do! Great post
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Lori,
You are correct! A well designed platform adds to that.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Cynthia,
You are right, it is a time issue and sometimes educators don't get much credit for the work.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
