Designing and delivering an online course that is both engaging and well managed is the key to student success. Students are more likely to complete the course successfully if they feel comfortable with the instructor, course material, and the learning management system from the beginning of the semester.
Innovation in the e-learning environment is more important than ever. More and more traditional, face-to-face students are making their switch to the virtual classroom. It is essential to keep these students engaged and connected. If you teach online courses, you probably already know that announcements, messages, and discussion boards are not enough to keep the students interested and engaged. Afterall, we all have seen the “nice post” and “great job” as part of the discussions!
Designing an online course requires organization, structure, and accessibility. Aligning the learning outcome and course objectives with modules makes the learning experience enjoyable and more effective. Student success relies on the student being able to locate and utilize the course resources. A clear communication of the format and structure of the course at the beginning of the semester, sets the foundation for student success. Emphasis here is on “clear communication.”
Break the ice. Make students feel welcome and comfortable during the first week of the semester. Students reach out and seek assistance if they know the professor. An introduction video by the educator along with an icebreaker game will help close the communication gap.
Student-led discussion assignments will engage students and enhance their learning experience. Students start the discussion based on the assigned reading rather than simply answer discussion questions posted by the instructor. The rest of the group continue the discussion process by posting their perspective and follow up questions.
Keep students connected by incorporating polls and questions within recorded lectures using tools such as Slido. A simple notification reminder through technology tools is proven more effective than a lengthy announcement. Most students admit to ignore announcements on their learning management system. A poll or a question that requires a response insures that students stay connected.
Continuous student feedback is an important just-in-time teaching tool. Both technological advances and students' demands are constantly changing. Making the course adaptive to new and improved teaching methodology is essential for students' success. Listen to the students and encourage their involvement in continuous course improvement.
Level of participation:
This session is structured more like a presentation with audience participation through discussions, polls, and games. The duration is 45 minutes which includes presenting the main points as well as collaborating with the audience.
Session Goals:
Attendees will be able to engage in effective online course design and delivery discussion. They will be able to identify and share tools to engage students throughout the semester. They will also be able to identify and implement strategies to convert an online course into a hybrid mode.