Announcements
I really like the Announcement feature because I find it is a great way to communicate to all my students at once.
Walt,
It's good to approach it like that - common issues and questions.
Nice job.
Besides reminding the students of deadlines and proper procedures, I will address common issues and questions that are often asked by the students. That way I can prevent the student from wasting their time and effort making a common mistake and not have to explain the workaround or answer directly to each student that needs it.
Jeanice,
Videos can be good. Make sure you keep them short (typically 15 minutes or less) to keep the students' attention. Anything much longer and they won't watch them. Just some advice from experience. Thanks!
My school is just starting to use videos of instructors covering various topics. I think that's a great idea because you all know how many times we repeat the same thing. Announcements help to get important information out to all students at one time.
Patricia,
I LOVE Jing. It has saved my life so many times in online courses. Thanks for the link too. Love seeing other people's examples.
Regarding class announcements, we have just started using JING a video clip free app to capture the instructor's voiceover as they navigate through a website, or assignment. I think it brings a more vital presence to the teacher/student dynamic.
Try it and see if you like it. Here is an example of a standard one:
http://screencast.com/t/Hq2kWh2ot
Sara and Marie,
I think many will agree with you. The announcements can help you connect with students and alleviate many questions. Thanks!
Hi Marie, :-)
I whole-heartedly agree with you. Class announcements are an integral part of the online classroom. As you mentioned, instructors via class announcements are able to disseminate information to their entire class all at once.
I post many announcements in my online classes: welcome, course information, assignment due dates, types of assignments, assignment clarifications, discussion board policies, etc. Posting announcements allows me to maintain an active presence on the discussion board, and lets students know what is going on in the classroom.
Sara Fine
Online Instructor
david,
Yes, welcoming the students and getting them involved is essential. Thanks for your input.
Also an announcement at the beginning of a course makes a student feel welcome and can give contact information for any questions prior to the course as well.
Marie,
The announcement feature can really be a quick communication tool as well. Thanks for your input.
