What
is the significance of knowing the technology available to you?
Technology is essential in online courses, which allows
learners to effectively communicate with one another and complete coursework
assignments. Technology has allowed us
to make connections, which in turn makes distance education an effective method
of education. It’s pertinent for
learners to know all the possible technological tools so that they can successfully
communicate with instructors and collaborate with other learners. The instructor is able to guide learners and
foster their learning through the use of technological tools. One of the most important tools learners need
to familiarize themselves with is the CMS system that their institution uses
(Boettcher & Conrad, 2010, p. 57). Most
institutions use Blackboard as well as other CMS pages for coursework. It’s crucial for the instructor to
incorporate essential tools for the course (Boettcher, 2010, p. 57). Starting off with basic tools and then
building upon them with different types of technology, is a good way to enhance
learning. For instance, integrating
blogs, wikis, or media rich applications are a great way to start a distance learning
course. The quantity and quality of
technology tools used in an online course is a vital decision that the instructor
needs to make in order to engage and motivate learners.
Why is it essential to
communicate clear expectations to learners?
Creating
clear expectations at the beginning of an online course is important because
most of the work requires students work and interpret the material independently. Since there may be new technology tools introduced
and the students are required to use throughout the course, it’s imperative for
the instructor to set the expectations for all learners. This allows the learners to look over the
tools and materials the instructor wants them to use and if there are any misunderstandings,
the learners can communicate that with the instructor in the beginning. Boettcher
& Conrad (2011) stated, “clear and unambiguous guidelines about what is
expected of learners and what they should expect from an instructor make
significant contribution to ensure understanding and satisfaction in an online
course”(p.55). Knowing what is expected
will allow learners to achieve course goals and remain successful.
What additional considerations
should the instructor take into account when setting up an online learning
experience?
Other
additional considerations that instructors could use when setting up an online
learning experience are: supporting the development of social and cognitive
presence, and incorporating essential course pieces such as the syllabus and
weekly teaching guides (Boettcher & Conrad, 2010). Interaction and presence are essential
elements for online learners. Regular
and timely interaction of faculty with students is one of the key quality
indicators of online courses (Boettcher & Conrad, 2010, p. 75). Also, providing a snap shot of the course assignments
and outcomes allows learners to plan their lives and establish routines.
Conclusion:
I have
learned about a wide variety of strategies instructors can use in order to
establish an effective learning community that promotes student success. There are a number of steps an instructor
needs to take establish social presence and a collaborative learning environment. This presence continues throughout the course
which allows learners to effectively communicate and collaborate with the
instructor as well as one another. . Dr. Palloff and Dr. Pratt explain the importance
of making personal connections to students and to avoid “cookie cutter” experiences
is essential in the online environment (Laureate Education, n.d.). It’s also imperative for the instructor to set clear expectations,
incorporate weekly guides, discussion boards and a syllabus so that students can
effectively plan their lives and develop a deeper level of understanding.
References:
Boettcher, J. V., & Conrad, R.
(2010). The online teaching survival
guide: Simple and practical pedagogical tips. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.
Laureate Education Inc. (n.d.).
Launching the online learning experience [Video Podcast]. Retrieved from: https://class.waldenu.edu/webapps/portal/frameset.jsp?tab_tab_group_id=_2_1&url=%2Fwebapps%Fblackboard%2Fexecute%2Ftype%3DCourse%26id%3D_2098594_1%26url%3D
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