Kevin ,
Mode, time, and access are all key components to consider when communicating with anyone, but especially students in an online course. Thank you.
When establishing a pattern of communication first I would discuss method such as email, texting or telephone. I would also explain that email is my preference for most communication and I would use texting for reminders and the telephone for one to one help. Next to discuss available hours for both the instructor and student for communication. Instructors typically have set office hours and 24 hours response on emails but it also would be nice to know when the students are available for communication.
William,
Discuss, explain, remind - all key components to developing that pattern. Thanks!
Setting rules for the communication as well as expectations of what to communicate.
Alexander,
The rules and expectations are essential components. Thanks for adding to the conversation.
When establishing a pattern of communication I believe that expectations are the most important things to consider. I provide students with an explanation of my expectations, actual examples to illustrate my expectations, rubrics for students to keep, and I constantly model and reinforce my expectations. I feel that students become frustrated when expectations are not clear, and expectations allow me to remain consistent with all students throughout the communication process. Next, it is important to consider availability. Being that we are working in an on-line environment, it is important to remember students and instructors have very busy lives outside of the on-line classroom. Considering availability establishes respect and allows everyone an equal opportunity to participate.
Erica,
"Pattern" is the key word. So, we have to keep in contact with the students explaining the expectations, giving them explanations, etc. Good point!
The first important thing to consider is the pattern of communication must be seen as a process. By process, I mean communication in any class requires both modeling and facilitation by the instructor. Therefore, a clear and sensible guideline is needed. However, the words must be matched by the actions of the instructor.
Secondly, communication must be done in timely manner and encourage more communication. For example, in the discussion forum create scenarios and end with open-ended questions.This strategy is reinforced by using specific names of course participants. This step draws people further into the conversation. If a student emails a response with a question, personalize your response with a statement asking for understanding or if more clarity is needed.
In short, a successful pattern of communication requires subtle redundancy.
Thomas,
Good point. I like that your explain how to make a pattern emerge from modeling and facilitating communication. You are right on target!
The two I consider to be the most important are:
1) Clear statement of expections from the beginning of the so everyone understands the "what and when" that is needed from them, their classmates and their Instructor. Since there is no face-to-face these upfront guidelines provide a time to ask questions, reduce the uncertainty and hopefully eliminate any unknowns.
2) Consistency and known consequences if expectations are not met and Instructor's availability when expectations can not be met.
Sueanne ,
Excellent. If our students don't know what to expect and we're not consistent, the "pattern" will never emerge. Nice job.
When considering the pattern of communication, I believe the two more important things are as follows:
1. Consistency - While I do understand that most students was an immediate response, we must set up boundaries, and remain consistent in those boundaries. Our institution has set up a 24-48 hour rule; however, I will normally reply immediately upon reading a communication as much as possible. If more is required, I will set a deadline for myself to respond within the institutional parameters. The students also know that if I see their message and need time to respond, I will acknowledge receipt of their message, and inform the student that I will reply in depth within a certain time parameter.
2. Substance - As professors, we expect our students to respond to us and to their peers with substance, particularly in the discussion boards. However, we must be the first partaker in providing substance in order to enhance the learning and communication process. I give very detailed notes and/or responses. While I do not necessarily expect the very same level of detail, I provide a pattern of communication that functions as a road map for each student.
Dr. Crews, I think that establishing the norms for the communication in the classroom is essential, then you also need to let the students know when you will be available synchronously, and asynchronously. Thank you. Mike Crowley
Kevin Lovelace, I think that having a schedule for when you are available for synchronous communication is key in an online course. We should also keep in mind the student can take advantage of asynchronous means, if they can't take advantage of the synchronous means such as the classroom discussion board, or e-mail. Thank you. Mike Crowley
Aundrea,
The consistency and substance you refer to help build that "pattern." That's the best road map you can provide.
Thanks!
Michael,
Yes, the schedule is very important in the synchronous environment. This can be a challenge. Thanks for bringing this up.
Michael,
Yes, and every class has a different "norm." Letting the students know what to expect is key.
Thanks!
Set clear and concise guidelines at the beginning of the course and let students know how often you will be checking emails. For example, we might explain we check emails twice daily at 9 AM EST and again at 7 PM EST. Next, we should lead by setting an example. If we as instructors do not post substantive posts, the students will follow our example. Additionally, we are also setting an example by logging in each day which shows consistency and availability.
Very good, Dr. Molnar!
As a previous online student who worked FT as well, I needed to know my instrcutor was available when I needed them on the weekends. I always give my students various ways to contact me so they do not have to always wait 24 hours if there is an urgent request they might have. Great post!!
Coleen,
Clear and concise - two great "C" words I like to see when discussing course guidelines, communication and other aspects of the online course environment. Thanks for your input.
