This will be a new teaching technique for me compared to years ago of strictly hands on and classroom activities.
The success of the online student learner is dependent upon the knowledge of the instructor. The instructor must know how to manage the CMS (or LMS), the course content, management of assessments and grades, and find ways to keep students engaged and minimize attrition.
After going through the first part of this training I have found that there are may different ways to help my students feel comfortable and be sucessful in my course.
I learned that being well-versed in the course delivery system and technical infrastructure is integral to virtually instructing.
It is important to understand the CMS that is being utilized in order to provide an easy acclimation to an online learning environment as well as provide support to students that may be struggling.
We are all learning, which is wonderful! I have a sense of "need" to share knowledge with my students.
In the online learning environment, the instructor needs to thoroughly be knowledgeable of every attribute of the course. This would include the set up of the course, the different modes of communication, the set up of the assignments, the grading pattern among other things. Communication with students is of utmost importance with feedback on all assignments. This will encourage the students to correct the gaps in their learning and motivate them to be successful in the course!
that insturctors need to know the course materials to be able to assist students with assignments
Online instruction can be challenging for both the instructor and student. The student can become confused and fustrated if the content is not well organized and easly found, the instuctor can find learning how to organize the materials can be challenging.
Basic Structure of an online Coarse, and it's components. These, of coarse these are rudimentary in nature. My only comment related to that is; I wish we had access to these tools 3 months ago. Although the "sink or swim" approach is effective.
Being able to deliver on-line learning is a "learning process" by both the instructor and students. Being familiar with the LMS is a must in order to be successful. Creating a "mock" class has and could be helpful to beginners.
E-learning helps students develop new routines and strategies. Students are more engaged with other students as well as their instructors. Students are able to learn in any environment when the classroom is not available. E-learning also helps to keep the student engaged and helps the instructor to have more control over the content available to them. The CMS is more structured to help guide the students to the work ahead, like a roadmap.
How you communicate is important to ensure everyone interprets the message the same; different approaches and tactics may be needed depending on the situation.
Being in an online environment can be comfortable and provide a sense of security. However, as instructors, we engage the student, be aware of any outside factors that may be distracting the student, and continuously offer reassurance/praise.
Learned that as an effective online instructor one should be familiar with the instructional, media, presentation, and display strategies that are used by the institution
Students should have access to the course content all the times and not some of the times
I have learned that although, the instructor may possess a wealth of knowledege about the course content, if the course management system is not effective, then the online learner's experience will suffer and may not retain as much information than otherwise. Having a good understanding of the course management system saves time, not only in the classroom, but also with IT.
To ensure e-learning success, the instructor must have a thorough understanding for the CMS and an intentional communication platform to help learners to navigate effectively.
In order for students to succeed in the e-learning process, the class must have structure. Orientation is a must with virtual learning for both students and teachers. As a teacher, you must interact with your students online just as you would if they were face to face. Orientation can clarify most questions students might have.
My biggest take away at this point it the importance of both instructional support and technical support. Making students feel comfortable with the technology is equally as important as letting them know that the instructor will be there to support them in their learning.
