Wendy,
We do serve a role model to our students. We have to continually remind ourselves of that fact. Thanks!
A pattern of communication is basically defined as consistent forms of communication used frequently. Two of the important things to consider when establishing pattern of communication are:
1. Being consistent: It is important to maintain consistency in communication. It sets an example for students to duplicate. it also reflects integrity for students to look up to when there is uniformity and consistency in communication.
2. Being accountable and prompt in communicating in a timely fashion. Having such a culture will encourage students to reciprocate similar etiquettes.
Two important things to consider when establishing a pattern of communication would be consistency and timeliness. Expectations of students should be the same across the board. The use of rubrics during the grading process helps to ensure consistency in evaluation. Timeliness is also important when responding to students. Responding to student questions within 24 hours will allow for all students to have the same chance to make necessary changes from constructive criticism, suggestions, or advice provided by the instructor.
Establishing a pattern of communication for an online course has many important considerations. It can emphasize to students the importance of professionalism in communication not only in academic environments but in their career fields as well. Written words become ambassadors for the writer and readers will form many basic opinions of the writer based on the words chosen and the writer’s ability to use of those words correctly.
Establishing a pattern of communication also helps eliminate confusion among students as to the difference between informal and formal communication, demonstrating that things such as texting shortcuts are inappropriate in both academic and professional written communication.
Providing a “rules of the communication road†can help assure everyone respects others, observes proper directives and eliminate head-on collisions with others.
In addition to consistency and clarity, it is important to set expectations for a course. Whether it is participation in the discussion thread or submitting written assignments, students need to know what the instructor’ expectations are? As part of their introduction to the class, students can be asked to comment on the expectations to make sure both are beginning the course with approximately the same shared expectations. The second important consideration would be setting a pattern for responding to students either e-mail queries or feedback to assignments. This will help students manage their learning experience. Thanks
I would say that frequency is the most important factor. Students must see the instructor as active participant in the class.
Appropriate tone is the second most important factor as online communication is easily misunderstood and students require encouragement.
In my view, communication must be clear and written in a manner that minimizes misunderstandings. It has to be written using appropriate tone.
Communication should be frequent so that the student is able to feel that the instructor is an active participant of his or her learning process.
Consistency is very important. We all have our ups and downs and in some days do not feel as upbeat than others. However, our communication should always be consistent and friendly.
I think that it is easy for people to be rude in a written message. It is much harder to be rude face to face. Sometimes I feel that our students communicate the way they do as they do not have to talk to us face to face.
I agree that leading by example is very important. We are role models as instructors and our students learn from our communications.
The lack of non-verbal messages is a real challenge as such a large part of our communication is non-verbal. Webcam is not an option in some cases as students do not always have the Internet speed required.
ROBERT,
The terms consistency and pattern do certainly go together. When we establish that pattern students benefit from knowing how and when we will communicate as well. Thanks!
Troy,
Yes, I just responded to another posting about consistency and patter, but, you're right - timeliness is also essential. A 24-48 hour rule is a common thing. Thanks! Keep it up.
Wayne ,
Excellent. I agree that instructors should provide the rules for communication so that students understand when and how to communicate. This adds to the consistency. Thanks!
Chander,
Great - you have added another "C" word to the conversation - Clarity. Consistency and clarity are excellent components. Thanks!
Tomi,
Frequency is a key component of developing that pattern. And, the tone is set from the beginning. So true. Thanks!
Katrina,
Anything we can do to help alleviate or minimize misunderstandings is important. When we eliminate misunderstandings, we don't have to communicate as often and we can save time. Thanks.
Tomi,
You are right. We all have good days and bad days, but we have to always be communicating with students in a timely manner. Thanks!
Tomi,
And, there are times when they don't try to be rude, but that's the way it comes across. Thanks for your input.
Katrina,
It's kind of like they saying, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." We are the role model. Thanks!
