I've learned that online teaching requires more planning and preparation than face-to-face in order to compensate for the lack of face to face expressions, differenot styles and to help facilitate asynchronous participation.
It is amazing how the learning style(s) of a student really doesn't change while online. We just have to incorporate numerous instructional strategies to accommodate them online.
Different learning styles means different strategies needed for assessing levels of learning. Students may be engaged by the discussion post aspect, however, some will not read and can undermine the process.
I appreciated learning about the different learning styles as I have seen these demonstrated in the online and in-person environment. Valuable to understand that these are learning styles and not simply personality traits. I must shift my thinking from the synchronous to asynchronous style of teaching and interacting. This content is helpful in understanding and applying the value of asynchronous methods.
I learned about the two types of meetings. Establishing proper guidelines for both of these meetings is crucial in the success of your online classroom.
Learning the difference between synchronous and asynchronous. Students in a one on one setting can utilize asynchronous and synchronous is more essential in large group settings of less than 40 students
I learned what the difference between syncronous and asynchronous discussions are. I did not know this prior to this class, even though I have taken online college classes. This made me think back about my classes and dicussions online. It is true, it allows the asynchronous disccussions to be more thought out when posting and responding. Synchronous tends to alienate certain introverted students.
Mary,
Can you commend on the names of the learning styles and their functions? Just asking to provoke more learning among us.
I've learned that asynchronous meeting is used when you want everyone views and opinions on content presented. Then the opposite for synchronous for those students who don't voice their opinions or views. During asynchronous projects, students of five or six groups are engage in the conversation with questions to encourage more intellectural conversations. Always have synchronous times with students who want clarity on items that don't quite understand. Always write short sentences, and questions prepared before sessions. Talk with students about netiquett among their peers. Remember to always have sessions 30 minutes before going to the next content, but always end the session with my concise and accurate answers on a topic.
This module provided a lot of beneficial information on how to use asynchronous discussion effectively. It also clealry explained the value of this method in an online learning environment. This type of communication is tricky versus a traditional classroom format because in communication, we cannot see nonverbal communication such as facial expressions, tone of voice, etc. Having a clear netiquette policy in place is vital to ensure that this technique is used appropriately. This method is challenging for me because I have never received much value from it myself as an online student. I think it can go either way depending on how it is set up and managed.
I learned that smaller groups should be used to check for and reach understanding.
I found the 3 learning styles that we discussed to be informative information. I was unfamiliar with them. I will try to have the students avoid these learning styles.
The main take away is to group students into smaller groups when doing synchronous meetings, a review of reasons why a student may not participate and how to get them to participate.
I like to start off the discussion before any student has replied. Then when I reply to a student's post, I like to add questions for the student to respond to if applicable. This helps to keep the discussion going and to show that I am there for them and that their thoughts and responses add value to the discussion. After the week is over, then I like to summarize key components of the discussion topic.
This module was helpful in giving us examples of asychronous vs synchronous classroom settings and how to manage and facilitate both. I agree that giving quick, positive feedback will be the key in keeping students engaged and eager to participate in the next lesson.
Engaging learners is critical to the success of the online course.
Learning about synchronous and asynchronous meetings/discussion, and which one to use at different scenarios. I will be utilizing both since I do live lessons with my studentsz
I feel this will be the most difficult portion of online learning. Getting all students involved with their thoughts and ideas and sharing what they have learned. In an asynchronous system students will be able to view peer statements and simply copy or reword those in order to maintain participation deadlines.
Having prompt feedback within a timely basis helps reiterate the non-verbal cues we use within the classroom to encourage more participation through online platforms.
Definitely splitting the students in groups of 5 or 6 for discussions has been very helpful over the past six months. It did give everyone the opportunity to participate, and avoid having them to speak in front of the entire class.
