Lanny,
I like your "C" words: consistency and clarity. These two words sum it up nicely. When thinking about communicating in general these are essential. Thanks for your input.
Dr. Tena Crews,
I believe that by being civil, lead by example, and being consistent with timing, ie. getting emails answered daily,estabilishes a pattern of communication. As the instructor, I lead the class, thus by putting in the persons name, ending my communcation with my name creates civility. If my writing is clear and to the point discussing the ideas not the person, then students have an example of my expectations to follow. If I show the students that I value deadlines and take responsiblity then I believe they will follow suit.
Sincerely,
Walter
Walter van Poollen
9-12-12
I think modeling good communication is critical; often students are not sure what is an appropriate submission, both in terms of tone and content.
I also believe it is important for me as the facilitator to make sure all students feel that it is a 'safe' learning environment, so if it 'feels' as if someone's submission is not following netiquette, then I send a private email to alert the student to this concern.
Walter,
Right on. The instructor is the best role model. Keep up the good work.
When I establish a pattern of communication in the online classroom, the two most important things to consider are frequency and consistency. Frequency is important in terms of stimulating new topics of discussion (i.e. discussion forums). I try to post thought provoking diagrams or images in the discussion forum to open up discussions regarding the forum topic which leaves room for multiple interpretations. I also believe it is important to frequently provide journal articles, news, and other websites on a regular basis so that students are able to read and discuss sources of information they may not have found on their own.
The second most important, consistency, is important when responding to students. Responding to inquiries, concerns, comments, or praise from students in a timely manner is much appreciated by most students (as i've learned). Setting a standard response time in the form of feedback, content-related or process-related is a great way to form a good habit. We are, essentially, all creatures of habit!
Patricia,
We, as the instructors, are the best role models. I like the method of emailing students privately. Thanks for sharing.
When establishing a pattern of communication the instructor needs to be consistent. The pattern needs to be frequent in order to develop the communication bond between the instructor and the student. Because we are in an online environment consistency in the communication allows the students to feel connected to the class and provides them with an opportunity to feel that they have help whenever it is needed.
Another important thing to consider is the communication code of conduct. Both students and instructors must adhere to the nettique rules outlined so that the pattern of communication is always respectful and condusive to positive learning.
Dulcinea,
Frequency and consistency are the key. Meaningful feedback is also essential. Thanks for your input.
Kimberley,
Yes, consistency. You are right on with your thoughts.
For me the two most important things are:
1. clear set of communication rules (what is expected of the student)
2. Consistency with corrections and communication.
99% of all my students are used to communicating using texting language and it seems to be a difficult barrier to overcome in some instances. I find that clear expectations and consistant communication/corrections will eventually get them on track. You have to find that balance between being tactful, positive and firm.
Jill,
Expectations and communication are key elements of the online environment and getting the content across to the students. Feedback is a key component as well. Nice job.
It's important that instructors serve as a model. Students are usually attentive to the communication patterns of those who are facilitating the course and use this as a guide that impacts their communication. Sometimes, students' communication mirrors that of instructors.
It's helpful for instructors to provide immediate correction and guidance for students who seem to be exhibiting complications. This shows other students that facilitators want to ensure that their environments are safe.
Two of the most important things I believe are important to consider when establishing a pattern of communication are understanding and context.
I think realizing that students come from varied backgrounds, and being able to understand their experiences, will help establish rapport with the students. While that is being done I find that it is imperative to put information into the proper context. With the pace at which technology is evolving and the exposure students have to different environments, it pays to also ensure that the assignment and the information being covered are put in context as it relates to the subject matter at hand.
Example: Covering privacy laws with regard to HIPAA. One student may see this as a way for government to exercise control, whereas another may see it as a means of protecting personal information (not releasing medical information to just anyone).
The two most important things to encourage a specific pattern of communication are:
1. Include communication expectations in the Course Overview. For example, let students know that posts to a forum require formal, standard English. Often students slip into "text writing" and don't use complete sentences or conventional writing standards. Making this clear at the start of the course ensures that students are aware of communication protocols.
1. Model communication behavior by beginning e-mails with the student's name (Hello Tom, or Thank you for your e-mail, Tara), and closing with your name on its own line (Kind regards, Your instructor, Stacey Kronquest). This follows the format of formal communication and raises the tone of the correspondence so that there is a high level of respect being modeled and conveyed.
The two most important things for me are setting out clearly the expectations for what constitutes excellence and establishing two way communication. I always like to point out to my students that in the word communicate, notice how the "u" comes before the "i". In communicating, it's important to understand the other's viewpoint, the "u", before we focus on our "i".
Dr. Faulk
Brian and Darlene,
You both make great points about tone in our communication. I'm always monitoring the discussion boards for tone, as sometimes as Darlene suggests, students don't realize how they sound unless they're gently guided to that realization.
Russell Faulk
Elton,
I have experience inappropriate emails based on language and format. I was not sure how to handle it but I did exactly what you said in hope that the student got the point. I always thank the student for the email, use their names, and let them know that they can still contact me if email is not clear to them.
Simone Branham
Stacy,
Yes, we should be the best role models. Do the best to be a great communicator and role model excellence communication and timely feedback to your students.
David,
We can all learn from each other. Varied backgrounds can be challenging, yet an opportunity for excellent communication. Thanks!
stacey,
The course overview and syllabus are the first opportunity for communication with the students. You can't have a do-over on a first impression so make it great! Clear expectations set the stage for a successful course. Thanks!
