Ashton Reeser

This module gave a good insight into why some learners leave the online platform and how instructors can reduce this from happening. These tools will be helpful in helping to keep students from feeling overwhelmed and not being able to adjust to the work load of online learning.

All students learn in different ways. This should be taken into consideration when teaching online as well as in the classroom. When teaching online, assignments should be given that can be completed by all students. Some students may feel shy and small groups can help with this. Another thing to consider are the potential different time zones that students may be in. Live chats may be difficult for all to attend at a certain time. If holding these or office hours, notice should be given well ahead of time. 

It is important to still have a presence from a distance. By sharing information with students, it can lead to personal relationships and make them build trust with the instructor. You can do this by posting welcome messages, bio messages with personal credentials and hobbies, etc. and asking students to do the same during the first week of class. 

In order for online students to be successful, the online instructors need to have a complete understanding of the format of the online format they will be using. They can do this by familiarizing themselves with the online platform before classes begin. 

Critical thinking skills are very important for students to have when they get into college settings and later in the real world settings when they will have a job. I think the examples of giving students collaborative learning assignments but using real world examples for them to research using technology and present in class is a way to make them think critically and also is a good way for them to share with each other.

A rubric is extremely important in a face to face classroom. It is even more important in an online setting. Having a rubric specifically spells out for students what you as the instructor are looking for and how they can attain the grade they are hoping for. It also helps you are the instructor to be fair/consistent with grading. 

Communication is important from instructors to let students know what the work load will be like and expectations from the students. Students will be better able to rise to the level of what is required if they know from the beginning rather waiting until mid- class. A lot of students may have come from face to face settings where classes met for the required time every week and they turned in their assignments by the syllabus due date. Online classes are set up much differently because the student has much more flexibility of when he or she will access lecture… >>>

Active learning makes students take responsibility for their own learning. I think this is important because as instructors we model everything for them and are here for guidance but ultimately it is up to them to do what they are supposed to. They are not simply coming to an instructor for an answer. Active learning also allows for instructors to obtain feedback from a development team to assist with curriculum revisions.