The two most important things to consider when estblishing a pattern of communication are:
1. Communication rules. All students should have a guideline for the rules on communication online, with teachers, students, and discussions. This way if the rule is broken, then the instructor can refer the student back to the guidelines to remind them what the rules are.
2. As an instructor setting good examples on proper communication, and consistency would be beneficial. All students should be treated the same way when communicating, and no exceptions should be made.
Yvonne,
I agree. Being the role model and following the set communication rules helps the students do the same. Nice job.
The primary rule is to be respectful of the class content, professor and students. Without respectful and socially appropriate interactions, the communication channels break down and do not accomplish their function.
Secondly, grammar and spelling is very important in order to effectively communicate on a written manner.
Joel,
Yes, we must establish a professional and acceptable use of the English language as one of the priorities to accomplish effective communication.
Mary,
In setting the expectations, professors must make sure to be role models for their students. Students will try to live up to the level of excellence that a professor practices.
Miriam,
Serving as a role model is the instructor's role. Making sure everyone is respectful helps develop a safe place to share information. Communication is enhanced. I stress professional communication and spelling/grammar are essential to professional communication. Nice job.
Miriam & Joel,
Thanks for continuing the conversation in this forum. You bring up great points to discuss.
Miriam & Mary,
You are right on with being role models and setting the tone for professionalism. It's essential to show students the importance as well. Thank you for your input.
I think the two most things to consider are (1) what is expected and (2) what is acceptable in establishing a pattern of communication.
Students must know what is expected and the details like how often, what quality of communication.
As far as what is acceptable I think that is up to the instructor to not only tell them but to show them
Dr. Crews,
Modeling is one of the most efficient mechanisms for achieving the desired results from our students.
Thank you for your support.
Mark,
Thanks for your input! The instructor and students both need to understand the expectation and how to communicate effectively with each other. The syllabus is typically the first step in effective communication.
When communicating with students, I always try to be a role model. My emails, live chats, etc. are professional, supportive, and grammatically correct. I urge my students to act professionally as well. I encourage my students to be somebody that I would like to interact with by remaining positive and on-task.
Charlotte,
Right on! Being a role model through the communication process is essential. Communication involves providing the syllabus, setting expectations, developing rubrics, using the discussion board, email, etc. Thanks!
I believe that the two most important items to consider are Netiquette and addressing incivility. In order to facilitate the virtual classroom environment, we must realize that interactions may not be the same as in face to face. Providing a tutorial or link to a Netiquette resource can help the students understand expectations and proper methods of communication within the on-line classroom environment. Additionally, incivility must be included since this can be very detrimental to the spirit of on-line learning.
Rachel,
You are right on target. netiquette and respecting others is extremely important. Communication cna be misunderstood more easily online and we all have to be carefule to show our respect. Thank you.
I think that each instructor should let students know the "rules and regulations" in regards to patterns of communication including boundaries in regards to acceptable times of receiving phone calls, Skype messages, etc...
It is also important to document the communication and provide the student with a "transcript" if you will, of the communication to insure that nothing was lost in translation.
Kim
There are several issues that have come up in my online courses. The two that take the most time to address deals with getting students to write out complete thoughts using complete sentences. The other is the use of text-messaging language in their discussion posts and essays. The line between appropriage academic writing and informal slang is becoming very blurred.
Kim,
Yes. The students must understand the expectations, rules, and regulations up front. The first piece of communication is typically the syllabus. This is a place where you can refer students to when they "forget" the rules and regulations. Communication is essential. Nice job.
Kendra,
I understand completely. In my syllabus I provide examples of good and bad discussion board answers that enhance the communication. I also make it clear that the communication that occurs in class is professional communication void from texting language. That has helped me. Thanks!
Important factors to consider would be one the cultural background of the learner. Although, a nettiquette could be grounded, there are still minor expressions or wording that, for example, someone of a hispanic heritage may consider offensive, when in reality was a factual idea.
Being professional and a courteous i believe is another extremely important thing encourage your students to be. Obviously that is taught by example and strict rules.
