Annabel and Melinda,
The value of a good role model - invaluable. Thanks.
Annabel,
Being available and providing timely feedback is essential. This sets the tone of the course. Students will know someone is there to assist when they need it. Thanks.
I think that it is very important to be 1)consistent and 2)timely. There is no set schedule to meet in most online courses. Therefore students need some level of consistency in their communication with their instructor. The communication must also be timely so students do not feel like they are on their own.
Alfred,
It is so important as an instructor to be that role model that students want to respect. This helps build community and get the students involved with the course and each other. Communication is key to the building of this rapport.
Thanks for you input.
Hello Melinda,
I could not agree more regarding modeling for the students. I find that students typically follow the pattern of the instructor. By showing respect and encouragement, it creates a positive environment within the classroom.
Warm Regards,
Annabel
Hello,
The following are the two most important items to consider when establishing a pattern of communication:
1. availability - The instructor needs to communication with the students how quickly he/she will respond to emails, etc. I find that responding within 24 hours works well. In addition, it is important to have weekly faculty office hours.
2. feedback - It is important to set a pattern for feedback. By providing timely feedback, then students will have a better idea of what they need to improve on for the next week's assignment. In addition, students like to know their status in the course.
The most important thing to establish in a pattern of communication is rapport. The student needs to understand that the instructor cares, is accessible, and is responsive to the student's needs. This requires careful attention to tone, as well as the instructor being "real" with the student. Being real means responding to student concerns with a personalized message, not a canned response.
Next is consistency. This is a broad set of practices that include communicating regularly, but also being able to follow a communication string with a student over time. I keep extensive spreadsheet comments on each student's communications with me, and me with the student. If I say I will do something, I make a note in the spreadsheet. If the student communicates the issue, I make a note in the spreadsheet. I keep the string of prior correspondence on e-mails, also, so there is a record of the conversation.
MeriAnn,
You are right. The tone is often misinterpreted so it's important so set the tone early. Thanks!
MeriAnn,
Examples help give students concrete ideas of what you are expecting. I always tell students to go beyond any example I may show them.
MeriAnn,
Knowing where the students are coming from and where you want them to go (learning outcomes) is essential. These things work hand in hand. Thanks for your input.
Erica,
You can base entire classes, programs, etc. around respect and consistency. Thanks for helping us keep that in mind. Good info!
MaryCatherine,
Communication, consistent, clear - many important "C" words. And, being timely in your feedback and providing meaningful feedback is essential. Thanks!
I like your ideas here. It is amazing how the tone of what you are writing changes the way a student receives the information.
I think including examples is a great idea and a great way to "show" students what you are requiring.
The two most important things to consider are:
-The student level and ability for them to understand what is taking place-this includes language barriers, and the baseline knowledge of the student receiving the feedback.
-The desired outcome of the communication being given, is it to teach a new topic, or encourage the student to discover something on their own.
When establishing a pattern of communication, I consider two things: respect and consistency. Both of these can be addressed by a clear communication code or guideline. Respect is S2S, S2I, and I2S. Using names as address and signing posts and emails is one element of respect I struggle with in my classes. This is something I try to model so students see that addressing one another by name and signing their own work shows the same respect they would show in verbal communication. As other have mentioned, consistency is vital. I place requirements on discussion board posts for students and then I follow those requirements as well. A culture of consistency in the class environment makes the environment easier for all.
Erica
In my opinion consistency in communication should be regarded as a given. As an instructor, students should expect as much as professional educators. Therefore, the two most important things to consider after consistency are clarity and timeliness. Communication without clarity is essentially the same as a failure to communicate. Clarity best ensures that what is being communicated is done in an easily understood and effective manner so that a forward path of learning is achieved. Timeliness of communication may be equally as important. This is particularly true if the communication is with regard to a question of urgency. However, it is also important that reasonable expectations of timeliness should also be clearly communicated in a communication conduct guideline beforehand so that questions may be answered before they do become urgent. Following a pattern of communication with clarity and timeliness is an effective way to best ensure success for both student and instructor.
Lori,
Communication can be many "C" words. Clear, concise, considerate, etc. keep up the good work.
Gloria,
Ah...love the word addictive in this situation. We want students to want to communicate, provide feedback and be engaged. The professional communication has to conte Italy be reinforced. Keep up the good work.
Carla,
The level of respect and relationships lead directly to a stronger community among students. This is a great component of the online environment. Thanks.
