Another step in the journey towards my online teacher’s certification has been taken. I also have to say that this was a little more enjoyable. We started out by creating a voice introduction of ourselves, along with a written, that was pleasant to do! But it was also to prepare us for our Wimba classroom, to ensure that we had the necessary equipment so that we could participate in a live session.
In the first section we talked about the differences between online classrooms versus a traditional classroom from both a student’s perspective and a teacher’s. My classmates and I agree on many of the differences. The actual time spent in ‘class ‘ is definitely more than traditional classes. We also agree that navigating the web, the programs, and software also presents a challenge. Paper syllabus’, instructions, and books are more familiar to us. In this setting, we have all definitely stepped out of our comfort zone! Most of us are unfamiliar with a lot of the web-enhanced instruments and find some of these somewhat perplexing. But we all agree that learning about them and becoming more comfortable and competent is also rewarding. As I start to become more comfortable with these tools, the process becomes more satisfying for me as a student. Designing a class is also a concern for most of us as we realize the complexities of creating a user-friendly and efficient program for students (and teachers!).
We also revisited the "Seven Principles for Good Practice in Undergraduate Education”. I took an inventory of myself with regard to this and identified some weaknesses as well as a plan of action to work on improving myself. In a face=to-face setting, I felt that I have competently met or exceeded these principles. But in an online environment, I have not been exposed to teaching students. That is until about ten days ago when I began teaching an online Math/ Reading Enrichment program to students wishing to obtain a GED. I found out that I have to be specific and precise in my instructions as to what is expected from the student and what the student can expect from me. I was unclear in both of these matters and wound up clarifying over the phone and via e-mail. I also found out that students learn differently. One student could perform math problems in a traditional way ie ... 2+2= _, 8x6+ _, etc ... Another student told me that he never could understand how to work out problems in this fashion, so I found some games on the internet for him that he is thrilled about doing! I thought, ‘hey, whatever works’. It’s a win-win for the both of us for now. In my self-assessment of things that I need to improve on, being very specific and being open to new ideas are high on my priority list.
We then went into the world of social media and designed/created our own introduction page on iGoogle.This was fun! I am not too sure where my fellow classmates stand in terms of social media but I can say four things about it. One, I’m pretty darn sure it’s here to stay and old fogies like me are fastest growing segment of the population in this type of media. Two, it is a very powerful communication tool. Three, a lot students (younger ones) know the ins and outs if it pretty good. And four, if you’re not in it and you want to teach online, you better get on board! But like everything else I have experienced in this course, creating an opening page was also something I didn’t know that could be done. Now when I turn on the computer and click on Google, it’ goes to my opening page where there are links to subject matters that I enjoy. Of course, social networking sites are some of them!
In this section we also talked about engaging students in meaningful conversations related to the subject matter in an asynchronous environment. I feel that the questions that are asked should draw the student into the conversation by allowing him or her to develop their critical thinking skills. Questions by the teacher or the students should not require a yes or no answer but should call for answers that, perhaps, require some thinking. My fellow students also agree because the conversations are more interesting and may elicit responses that give a different point-of-view. This type of conversation online, can lead into some thought-provoking banter.
The changing role of students and teachers in online education is am issue that is hard to overcome at first but is imperative for both to adapt. I alluded earlier to how communication is so important. I feel that this is probably the most important factor that both both have to work on vigilantly. When communication is taking place in a face-to-face atmosphere, a lot of things can easily be overcome and corrected. Online is a different story. So much can be lost in the translation. People interpret words differently based on culture, belief systems, and other factors. So precise and concise information must be presented clearly and without ambiguity.Because an answer may not come for hours, students and teachers should have a reasonable period of time to get or give a response.
Both students and teachers need critical skills to be successful in an online setting. If in a face-to-face environment, I feel that I have the necessary skills to be either a good student and/or teacher. Online learning or instructing requires a good self-assessment of ones skills. I feel that because of my lack of exposure to various technologies, I am not as proficient. But the harder I work at these, the better I am getting! And in my opinion, that’s the name of the game. I am patient with myself and my progress. I have no problem with where I am at today and welcome more challenges.
The use of a blog as a teaching tool is right now not on the top of my list as a teacher. But I am open to it! And I am finding out that a lot of students find it engaging with both the instructor and their fellow students. I was also able to find out that one can get paid to blog! Now that is interesting. Professors and others can blog about their particular areas of expertise in various publications and get paid to do it.But in the online class, blogging can be a useful tool to share information and gather it as well.
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