A Roundtable Discussion of Best Practices in Online Learning

 Associated with outcomes? Hybrid vs. Online – Not much different  Can all disciplines be taught online Some that may pose special issues are:  Math – Pose special issues with difficulty  Language – Speaking Assignments  Nursing with a live practicum component  Participation  Assignments  Instructor Communication

Participation  Participation What are the course requirements  Note in your syllabus the specific requirements for participation in you online class. Grade to participate – Learners may not be as anxious to participate if no grade is attached. Discussion  Instructor Replies – Should an instructor reply to all student responses?  It depends on the course, nature of the instructor, and the abilities of the learners.  Should discussion be mode of communicating with the instructor? Probably not the only mode.

Assignments  Assignments Several types of assignments to assess progress. Assignments will be discipline dependent. Assignments may be in place of discussion. Peer Review and Self Assessment  Have other learners review papers and assignments  Self-Assessment – have students state what they are concerned about regarding their papers. Group Projects  The project should be real world to allow for application to their work.  Peer Evaluation of the other group members.

Instructor Communication  Instructor Communication There is no set appropriate approach the key is to let the student know your availability.  “Office Hours” may be set, times where the instructor will be online and available to answer or text messages or even a phone call.  Provide the process for communication with the instructor on syllabus and/or on course site.