Setting up Online Learning Experiences

Setting up Online Learning Experiences There are a variety of steps that an instructor must consider when setting up an online learning experience. These steps include setting clear expectations, considering the type and quantity of technology that will be used in the course, establishing social presence, and understanding the proper behavior an instructor must portray when addressing online students. All these components can set the stage for an effective online learning experience.

Technology has allowed us to make connections that make distance education an effective method of education. It is important to know all of the possible technological tools that allow instructors to connect with students to foster educational discussion. This can also be a double edged sword however because introducing too much technology right in the beginning of the course may lead to confusion. Starting off with the basic tools and then building upon them with different types of technology is a good way to enhance learning. For instance, audio and visual technology can be used to record an instructor’s voice, so the students are more connected to the instructor. Synchronous meetings can also be made over distance, so that students feel like they are experiencing aspects of a traditional classroom. The quantity and type of technology that is used in a course is a pivotal decision for an instructor in which can motivate and encourage students.

Creating themes in the beginning of the course is very important to establish appropriate distance learning behavior. It is important to communicate clear expectations to the learners especially in a distance learning experience where much of the work requires independent study. Since miscommunication can occur due to time zone differences and using new technology, outlining expectations in the beginning of the course will set the tone for the remainder of the class. Boettcher and Conrad (2011) explain, “clear and unambiguous guidelines about what is expected of learners and what they should expect from an instructor make a significant contribution to ensuring understanding and satisfaction in an online course (p.55).” In other words, knowing all the rules of the game gives you a head start to achieving success in the course.

Some additional considerations that instructors need to address when creating an online learning experience is for an instructor to create social presence. This can be done by creating a getting –acquainted posting before the course begins, using the announcements tool 3 to 4 times a week, or creating and participating in icebreakers. Establishing relationships with students is key to enhancing learner satisfaction and effective in learner the content.

In summary, I have learned about a number of strategies that can enhance a distance learning experience. What I learned the most is that there are a number of small steps that an instructor must take to better relate to his or her students that would not be as important in a traditional classroom experience. For instance, the desire for anonymity had never occurred to be especially in reference to race. From these resources, I now understand how physical appearance may change to interaction in the classroom. In essence I have learned that it is important to consider the small steps, like addressing and every student by name and referring to bios throughout the course to make personal connections. Dr. Paloff and Pratt explain the importance in, “making personal connections to students to avoid “cookie cutter” experiences in the online environment (Laureate Education, 2012). Creating a personal relationship with students is the key to creating an environment of learning.
Resources

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

Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2012). Evaluating Distance Learning Theory . Baltimore, MD: Author