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.
I agree with you completely that instructors must be respectful of the fact that their students are adult learners. We, as adult learners ourselves, are in a position where we can sympathize with what students are going through, since we have been in same position ourselves. Younger students often do not have the same career and family responsibilities that older, adult learners do. It is clear that these responsibilities and any emergencies that may arise must be handled with a priority over school assignments. If students are given tips on planning ahead and effective time management, they will be better prepared to not fall behind in class should an outside emergency happen. We have all been in situations where priorities take us from spending as much time on our assignments as we would like to. There are things that we have learned as a result that may be useful to students. Making them feel as though we are all looking out for their best educational interests and that we are here to support them will go a long way in reducing some of the stress that accompanies these difficult and unexpected situations. It is not the job of instructors to see how we can take point from them and demand perfection at all times, but to aid them in accomplishing their educational goals.
ReplyDeleteGood Day Dotsy,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading your Blog and you have made some valid comments. The instructor should have an open mind and students must have a clear understanding of what is expected of them during the course. Being organized is essential to keeping the adult learners engaged. Therefore, having everything prepared before the course starts is important and smart. Having everything prepared allows the instructor more time to focus on fulfilling their requirements to provide the best learning experience possible for the adult learners. Thank you for the awesome Blog.