I would say that frequency is the most important factor. Students must see the instructor as active participant in the class.
Appropriate tone is the second most important factor as online communication is easily misunderstood and students require encouragement.
In addition to consistency and clarity, it is important to set expectations for a course. Whether it is participation in the discussion thread or submitting written assignments, students need to know what the instructor’ expectations are? As part of their introduction to the class, students can be asked to comment on the expectations to make sure both are beginning the course with approximately the same shared expectations. The second important consideration would be setting a pattern for responding to students either e-mail queries or feedback to assignments. This will help students manage their learning experience. Thanks
Establishing a pattern of communication for an online course has many important considerations. It can emphasize to students the importance of professionalism in communication not only in academic environments but in their career fields as well. Written words become ambassadors for the writer and readers will form many basic opinions of the writer based on the words chosen and the writer’s ability to use of those words correctly.
Establishing a pattern of communication also helps eliminate confusion among students as to the difference between informal and formal communication, demonstrating that things such as texting shortcuts are inappropriate in both academic and professional written communication.
Providing a “rules of the communication road†can help assure everyone respects others, observes proper directives and eliminate head-on collisions with others.
Two important things to consider when establishing a pattern of communication would be consistency and timeliness. Expectations of students should be the same across the board. The use of rubrics during the grading process helps to ensure consistency in evaluation. Timeliness is also important when responding to students. Responding to student questions within 24 hours will allow for all students to have the same chance to make necessary changes from constructive criticism, suggestions, or advice provided by the instructor.
A pattern of communication is basically defined as consistent forms of communication used frequently. Two of the important things to consider when establishing pattern of communication are:
1. Being consistent: It is important to maintain consistency in communication. It sets an example for students to duplicate. it also reflects integrity for students to look up to when there is uniformity and consistency in communication.
2. Being accountable and prompt in communicating in a timely fashion. Having such a culture will encourage students to reciprocate similar etiquettes.
Wendy,
We do serve a role model to our students. We have to continually remind ourselves of that fact. Thanks!
Eman,
I absolutely love formative feedback. I learn so much about what the students understand and don't understand through this feedback. Keep up the good work.
I think a pattern of communication and leading by example. I think it is important to be online every day and set a pattern so students know when you will respond to their question. I also believe it is important to provide examples so students can model an instructor's response.
Hello Tena and everyone,
Instructors need to provide their students with formative feedback so that the students enhance upcoming assignments. Also, Instructors need to encourage ongoing communication to create a community of learners.
Developing a pattern of communication helps not only students but also instructors as it builds an easy-to-navigate communication system for them and provides consistent communication.
Rodney,
Good point. I typically provide a "B" example an tell students their project must be better to earn an "A". I also always refer them to the rubric for the assignment as well. Thanks.
Rodney,
You bring up several things that can help build credibility. This is an important part of communication in the online world. Thanks.
Rodney,
We do have to set the time of the class and can do that in a variety of ways. Thanks.
Dr. Crews and All,
I often see students request "an example" of a properly done assignment.
I try to provide one example of a multi-page assignment, and often two or three discussion board posting examples during each class.
Rodney C.
Perry,
Great comment on modeling the expectations to help set a quality example.
Rodney C.
Dr. Crews,
To establish credibility in communication delivering a well defined/clear and consistent message across all mediums used is important. In the academic environment, the syllabus, the course assignments, the rubrics, and the formative feedback should all follow the same consistent message.
Rodney C.
Brian,
Excellent. We do have to make sure our students understand when they will hear from us and how often. These guidelines are essential. Thanks!
Steve,
Ah - you hit the nail on the head. We have to serve as role models and lead the students in the learning process. Thanks!
The most important consideration is to established when students can expect to hear back from the instructor. I am always extremely upfront about this. First, give a time line. For example, they can expect a response within 24 hours. Second, tell them when you will typically check your email. I tell them I check my emails in the evening. If they email late at night, they should not expect to hear back until the following evening.
The second consideration is to establish where they can expect you to communicate within 24 hours. For example- if they email, post on the current discussion forum, or in the FAQ forum. If they call, or post somewhere else, then it may take longer just because you may not see it until later or have time to call until later.
Best,
Brian Stout
Lynn,
Being timely in your communication is essential. The tone is something we all need to work on and be careful not to use language that can be easily misinterpreted. Thanks for your input.
First, the instructor must lead by example initiating courteous and respectful communication with the student. Second, the instructor must show consistency with this communication on a regular basis to keep the learner engaged.
