There are many things that should be considered when establishing a pattern of communication. Two that I feel are very important are:
1) the university's course policy regarding communication. While the instructor may have some ideas, if they do not match those of the university it can be confusing for students so it is important to understand the university's policy and then build from that.
2) the development of the rubric for assignments. The one provided in the course material for this class is a great starting point but of course needs to go along with further explanation to students so they have a full understanding of the expectations.
Christine,
Right on! Hence a "pattern" - consistency and clarity are two key components. We want to avoid that confusion. Thanks!
When establishing a pattern of communication consistency and clarity are extremely important. It is important to remain consistent with expectations from the students and timeframes for which they are expected and when you will provide personalized feedback. Inconsistencies can cause confusion for the students. Clarity of expectations, resources and feedback are also key. It does not matter how consistent you are if you do not make yourself and the materials clear to the students and vice versa.
Jennifer,
Connections with students helps establish that pattern of communication. Nice job.
Thanks for adding to the conversation.
I think establishing expectations to students for how quickly they can expect to receive a reply (for example, students often email repeatedly within a short time frame) so letting them know how often you check and respond to email, then always being respectful in communication is key.
Valerie,
Right. Set the standard and stick to it. It's a common guideline to respond within 24-48 hours. Thanks for adding to the conversation.
I think it's important to establish guidelines on time frames. For example, all email should be answered within 48 hours. Or all feedback will be provided within 3 days of submission.
I find students really want that so they don't feel like they are being ignored if you don't respond within 12 hours. At least you have set the standard.
Raeven,
Absolutely! If we set a rule/regulation, we have to stick with it. Follow through is very important. However, we should expect the same from the students. They too should follow through. Thanks!
I believe it is important to be honest with students and then follow through. For example, I inform my student I will respond to emails and voicemails within 24 hours. I also provide hours at which I am accessible by telephone. I follow through on these guidelines so that students can build rapport with me.
Jacqueline,
Right on! "Pattern" is the key word. we have to develop habits - good communication habits - to be able to develop that pattern. Nice job.
Pattern is the key word in this question. The student should not have to guess at when or how the instructor will communicate. The method of communication needs to be "spelled out" so everyone knows when (frequency) and type (method) of communication.
Jacqueline Bloink
Michael,
Frequent and consistent communication comes up often when we discuss a pattern of communication. Frequency and consistency builds good habits. Thanks!
When establishing a pattern of communication, there are many methods but the two methods, I find important are frequent communication and demonstration.
Frequent communication is important because no instructor can be online 24/7, however, when you are online (if known - established time) or unknown (random checks), it is important to frequently as possibly answer any question concern or even send a question to stimulate thoughts of the student, as it provides a sense of belonging and that you are reliable.
Demonstration of communication is nothing more than setting the standard and not only talking about (even if outlined in a syllabus) on how you want the writing done but taking more of an (I do, we do, you do) approach establishes credibility with students and keeps you on your game too :).
Michael
Kelly,
So many things go into developing that pattern of communication. We do have to think carefully about our timing and how we communicate consistently. Thanks for your input.
Hello All,
First, to consider method of technology or options of communication technology.
In addition, consider timing and pace of the course, such as start and due dates of assignments, and also make an evaluation on what students best respond to or required method of communication.
Thank you.
Kelly
Justin,
Ah - I like your approach. There are two sides to everything they say. ;-) Thanks for your detailed input. We can all learn from your content and questions.
There are two parts to a pattern of communication... one is procedural the other is more of the human side.
So, first, on the procedural side we should develop a solid set of expectations, guidelines and policies. These procedures should be clear and concise. The policy should be easily understood and one should constantly strive to adhere to them fully. They might include things like when and how communication will occur, rubrics for grading of communication, etc. The student should be expected to follow them as well as the instructor.
On the other hand there is a human component to a pattern of communication. I think the first thing to consider is "Am I being balanced?" We as instructors want/need to develop a balanced approach to communicating with the student. Sometimes it's tempting to be overly kind or overly strict with the students and this can become exploitable or oppressive. When communicating you must keep a balanced approach - strong but sensitive to the student's needs, authoritative but flexible, etc. This will allow you to flex the strict side when you need to and not have the student feel oppressed, but also allow you to be altruistic without the student thinking they can walk all over you.
A second thing to consider is "Am I being fair?" We can all admit there are certain students that just rub us the wrong way and there are certain students that you take a liking to. It is important, however, to treat the students identically. So when you're establishing a pattern of communication you must make sure you are fair in your attentions to all students in quantity, quality and tone. This can be a difficult facet to your pattern because you might not recognize when you are slipping one direction or the other.
Keisha,
Timeliness, frequency and clear guidelines all lead to a pattern of communication. Also, when we develop this pattern and serve as a role model in the communication process, most students will follow suit. Thanks!
I think that the two most important things to consider when establishing a pattern of communication would include:
1.) Timeliness/frequency of communication - It is imperative that students receive timely and frequent feedback from their instructor. I respond to all emails within 24 hours and I try to check discussion posts and reply to questions daily. For students who have urgent issues, I allow the option to text me as it is the quickest form of communication and I find that most students like to either email or text me.
2.) Clear/concise guidelines for communication - In the syllabus, I like to outline what is expected when participating in discussion boards. They know how often they should post, the quality of post that is expected (with examples), and they can see me posting frequently in the boards throughout the week.
Monique,
Using the word standard when describing rubrics is right on target. When we help the students understand the expectations, the standards, they are more likely to achieve the learning outcomes. Nice job.
