As an instructor, I must be very familiar and comfortable with the CMS I am using. I need to know all of the nuts and bolts of the platform. Just as if I were teaching a traditional class, I need to know the logistics of how things are done, such as the calendar, attendence, grade book, etc. The students also need assurance that thier teacher will be there to suppot them every step of the way. They also need to know that they can get technical help when they need it.
Tammera Malone
My success, as well as the students' success, depends on how well I know and deliver its content. Setting boundaries/limitations in the beginning so that everyone knows what is expected of them seems to be a fairly good starting point. Communication is a two-way street, we as online instructors have to be open-minded to every discussion and know when to stop the discussion if it is going astray.
I would say that in e-lerning course delivery format keys of success are
-course structure and development with easy approach/navigation to anyone who just join in to the class
-communication with every student in the class.
But those keys are important not only in the disatnce education format, they are important keys of success in any class delivery format, regardless, if it's distance or residential!
I learned that factors such as, malfunction of the computer system, dysfunction of the CMS and level of expertise in computer technology and software are all factors that can cause a student to become frustrated. It is important for me as an educator to know how to support them by knowing how the system works on their end and mine as well as, to be able to offer them technical support in a timely manner if needed.
In an e - learning environment, students will be able to view their assignments and grades. This will also allow instructors to support the students in any aspect of their works.
Yes, I agree. Basic information on knowing your way around the system you are using and making sure that the students are familiar with it as well. Students will become frustrated if they are not familiar with the system, and/or are having technical issues.
For successful online courses, it is important to become familiar with instructional CMS support along familiarization of e-learning platform that will be used to deliver instruction, class discussion, grading feedback and technical support for e-learners.
As an instructor, it is important to understand all aspects of CMS. We need to effectively help the students navigate the online learning and communication is key to their success. Setting achelivable goals in which the student are aware of their progress and deadlines of these goals is important.
Quality online courses have a good organizational structure that is easy to navigate. They require students to interact with the materials, and the course is learner centered. I am learning all the capabilities of the LMS. Before teaching online, I only used basic features of the LMS. So now I can use the LMS in a variety of ways for online teaching (and I am still learning). There is definitely a learning curve.
It is important to begin with an online formatted syllabus and plan to complete the modules within it. Structure is the key to keeping the learning moving forward. The students must know that their teacher is available for support and having specific times for this is also key to communication with the students.
My only experience with online instruction is as a student. I had not considered everything that will go into the instructing side of it. Things such as timing and communication can make things complicated, especially if things malfunction and impeade a student's progress. I learned that there are a lot of things to consider when putting together an online course and it could majorly impact my student's ability to learn.
In an e-Learing environment, I have the responsibility to provide quick turnarounds for my students questions, to require deadlines for submitting grades, to be available to my students at posted times and provide the policies that are required for the course and the consequences if not followed.
I learned about what characteristics a quality online course has. I plan to use this information to evaluate future online courses. Also, the more interaction in the program, the higher the learning.
I have used an LMS for teaching online before becoming a HS teacher and am implementing it now and for future use. The need for a "Student orientation Course" hit me as one of my areas lacking the most.
I have learned how to structure a course so that students feel more motivated, The importance to have full understanding of the online platform. I have refreshed about assignments, course materials, references, projects, the importance of informing students in the general and detailed organization of an entire course.
I understand the importance of being able to navigate through the CMS and be available to insure my students are successful. I'm a little intimidated, having never taught online; yet, I'm excited to rise to the challenge and make it engaging for my students.
The combination of teaching and technical support is critical for the student success.
In an online learning format, it is essential that the student feels supported in the event of technological difficulties encountered. Having a strong CMS and IT department that can assist with issues quickly is imperative. As an instructor, it is also my responsiblity to have a good working knowledge of how the CMS works so I can troubleshoot with the student as well. My CMS offers many of the strategies discussed in the course material presented.
I also like this idea of asking questions intermittently throughout the content presentation, to keep students engaged and encourage them to reflect on what they've just learned.
It's important for me to know my way around the CMS right from the start, and to think of creative ways to use the various components. It's also important to set up timetables for myself well in advance so that I can let students know what is coming and be sure to post assignments, deadlines, etc. in a timely way.
