In the beginning of class I post an announcement outlining my expectations. Throughout the course, I give feedback to the students privately as to what they can do to improve these skills. For example, if they wrote an essay but it contained multiple errors, I will ask them to proofread it again and correct any errors found. If they don't find all the errors I may send it back with the errors I found so they will be able to identify them. I have also called the students to give them tips on how to read or study the course material.
Paula
Debra,
Great post. You are right. Do you use concept mapping with your students.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
The best way to improve communication skills is to require students to read and write more. In addition to reading and writing, I also require that my students present their papers via a power point presentation that summarizes the highlights of their research. This opportunity gives them the chance to practice their public speaking skills as well as the opportunity to improve their writing skills.
I also start with the basics when teaching my students the essentials of research writing. This includes brainstorming and outlining ideas as a foundation to writing a cohesive paper. In daily practice, we have moved away from these writing fundamentals that are essential for students to become better writers.
Dr. Kevin,
You are right, leading by example is important. Also it is important to show students how to use the resources available.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Kelly,
I must share this with one omy colleague whose degree is instructional Design.Maybe you know her?
Her name is DrJeanette Jones.
I help students improve their reading, writing, and communication skills in a number of ways. Students are provides with guides and materials/resources to aid in their development. Additionally, they receive feedback from me on a regular basis. I also demonstrate good writing and communication skills in an effort to lead by example.
Kevin
can you give me access to this new research?
David,
You make a great point. Yes, students learn better when they see examples.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
David,
Yes, communication will improve through discussion and other avenues.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Jack,
Do you think that is a crutch? There is now research that state there may not be a case about learning styles.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Today communication in the online environment is involved in a variety of venues. The students use emails, blogs, discussion posts to other students, questions to the instructor and various written assignments. In addition, conference calls take place which require verbal communication. In each modality the communication can be tweaked or rephrased to be more clear and focused, or more concise when the student draws out the response. Students learn well by example
Reading and writing skills are critical for learning in online classes. They may be developed through wikis, blogs, discussion board postings, or other communication venues. Communication skills can be improved by responding to discussion posts in a way that reconstructs the post, in the evaluation, to be clear, focused, complete and concise.
Kelly,
Each student chooses the style he/she prefers...
Jack,
True, they don't read, they would rather you just tell them. Drives me crazy!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Lee,
You make a great point. By starting with content they know, they can focus more on their writing.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Jack,
So, how does that help your learners to communicate?
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Taghreed,
Yes, providing the resources them and you! There are great resources on the web. I like Grammar Girl.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Tamara,
What a great idea! It also lets them know they are not alone with frustrations in writing.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Mary,
Citing is such a hard concept for students to learn. It is hard for students to grasp the idea of giving credit to others.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
