week 4 assignment: Multimedia Resources

http://www.educatorstechnology.com/2012/12/teachers-guide-on-use-of-podcasting-in.html

Podcast is a digital audio file that is made available on the internet for downloading to a computer or mobile device.

 I learn that this device will allow the students the ability to hear and see real life settings. Some students are auditory learners and this will be a great way to enhance their learning experience.

The only concern would be making sure students use discretion on the material that would be shared with the community. Some student may decide to become too graphic with personal information.

https://mpb.pbslearningmedia.org/tools/puzzle/#.WnDiXbpFyUk

Digital Puzzle Builder is a custom word search crossword puzzle activity that can be printed, or shared with students using URL or assignment code.

I learned that this device will be utilized to increase the student’s vocabulary and enhance their writing and reading skills.

My only concern is the cost for the student.  

Week 3 Blog Assignment: Setting Up Effective Online Learning Experiences

When setting up an online class for adult learners, one must get off to a positive start. One should make sure everything is completed before starting the class. Some of the most important steps are to focus on discussion forum, creating questions, managing the forum, and knowing the teachers role (Boettcher & Conrad, 2012). This is one of the most important part of presenting the course. This information allows the students to get a better understanding of what is expected in the classroom.

Students must have a clear understanding of what is expected of them in the class. Students should always have a holistic view of the class, in order to get off to a positive start. Students need to be able to plan ahead to accommodate their work and other personal responsibilities (Boettcher & Conrad, 2012).

Instructor must keep an open mind when dealing with adult learners. They must realize that issues and emergencies are going to come about and there will be a need for flexibility in various assignments. There should always be a time limit set for assignment, but should have allowances when emergencies that may arrive. Adult learners are usually taking online classes to accommodate their busy lives and will need to have some flexibility that can be addressed on a needed basis.

Conrad, R., & Donaldson, J. A. (2011). Engaging the online learner: Activities and resources for

         creative instruction (Updated ed.). San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.

Week 1 Assignment 2 Blog Assignment: Online Learning Communities

 Online Learning Communities

The essential elements of online community building are as stated by Drs. Palloff and Pratt are the people, purpose and process (Laureate Education, 2012). The people would be students and teachers. The teacher is the facilitator that guide the students in the needed direction. Dr. Pratt stated that the teacher is looked at as the side guiding person, not as the main focus of the classroom (Laureate Education, 2012). The class is allow to share their thoughts and opinions in a constructive and respectful manner. This allows all students the chance to interact with each other in a community type environment.

 Online learning can be a positive force because it gives the student a chance to collect their thoughts and give clear and concise information to assist the entire class community. Students are able to share their thoughts that will identify differences and likes of the subject matter.

The online community can be sustained by allowing students to feel comfortable and valued as a contributor to the learning community. The student should feel this is a safe environment and treated with respect from his or her peers as well as the teacher.

Community building will allow students to share information from a diverse viewpoint. The diversity in the online community will allow student to develop a tool to improve student’s participation rate in the community of online learning.

Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). Online Learning Communities. Baltimore                 MD;Author.