Successfully Engaging Student Learners
Greetings!
Students learn best when the instructor employs a variety of methods for engagement. If the instructor has the opportunity to employ both the synchronistic and asynchronistic formats, she will be able to reach a lot of students and appeal to their different styles of learning. I have had the opportunity to use both in my classroom, and I appreciate the chance to engage with students through powerpoints and live discussions. I also realize that this style of teaching does not appeal to the more independent student, and I enjoy actively engaging on the discussion board and posting additional materials for the student to enjoy.
Online student learners are unique students, however, this is a necessary method of getting a degree. Many think that online degrees are bogus but they are completely legit and worthy. This is why many main stream universities are now offering degrees online.
Naomi,
I have also found that some students want the personal live interaction, but many of my students are taking my programs for the flexibility which might not be there except through asynchrounous methods. I therefore use both methods as well. Some institutions obtain approval for online programs through accrediting agencies as one method or another. In that case, an asynchronous approved program should be careful not to "require" too much synchronous content.
Herbert Brown III
Naomi,
I have also found that some students want the personal live interaction, but many of my students are taking my programs for the flexibility which might not be there except through asynchrounous methods. I therefore use both methods as well. Some institutions obtain approval for online programs through accrediting agencies as one method or another. In that case, an asynchronous approved program should be careful not to "require" too much synchronous content.
Herbert Brown III
