Setting up an Online Learning Experience

 This week we are asked to reflect upon our learning resources, consider the steps associated with setting up a course or training module, then respond to the following questions. The responses to the following questions are based upon my learning experiences as well as experiences with online learning.

What is the significance of knowing the technologies available to you?

Online learning environments have one, if not many, technologies available to assist an instructional designer, professor or school in creating a way to effectively connect learners and instructors together.   

One of these technologies is the learning management system, also called a course management system (CMS). As mentioned by Boettcher & Conrad (2010), “the primary tool that you will need to become familiar with is the course management system” that is being used.  This system is used to provide structure in the online environment.  Some of the frequently used systems are Moodle, Canvas and Blackboard.

In addition to CMS there are other application based technologies that can be used besides the traditional classroom discussions. Tani Bialek, an online instructor of six years, has seen firsthand the benefits of using technology to increase engagement and participation. Some of these technologies she has included in here classes are Wikis, Adobe Presenter, websites, and blogs (Bialek, 2011).

Why is it essential to communicate clear expectations to learners?

Online learners need to be self-directed and motivated to learn. In online environments students must be able to meet deadlines without being reminded, post to discussion boards and complete assignments without being prompted.  Learners also need to understand how their assignments are being graded, where to post assignments and the depth that is required to respond to others.

If a course or program offers a specific rubric for discussions or assignments then instructors need to post the rubric and describe its usage.  These along with other grading requirements need to be effectively communicated in order to ensure student success.

What additional considerations should the instructor take into account when setting up an online learning experience?

It is important for the instructor to remember that students will be coming into the class with different degrees of technological experience.  Instructors should be prepared and be willing to help any students with basic technology questions. If the instructor is unsure or feel that he/she cannot be of assistance, then the instructor should refer the student to the Student Support Services website or phone number.

There are many considerations that need to be taken into account when setting up an online learning experience. Boettcher & Conrad discuss the importance of establishing an online presence of the instructor as well as building an effective learning community (2010). A course can have the best course management system, accompanied software and integrate numerous technology tools; however, if the instructor does not successfully develop his or her presence within the learning community within the first few weeks of the course, the students may not be as successful as they could have been.

 

References

Bialek, T (2010) Online instructor shares best practices for teaching online Retrieved from:

http://blog.lib.umn.edu/tel/blog/2011/07/online-instructor-shares-best.html 

Boettcher, J. V., & Conrad, R. (2010).  The online teaching survival guide: Simple and practical pedagogical tips.  San Francisco, CA: Josey-Bass.