1. Virtual Issues and Challenges

2.  Discuss/Identify  what research says about online learning  the importance of knowing student learning styles  Eligibility requirements to learn online  Technical requirements/access to technology  Self and Formal Assessment  Motivation

3.  Although the online learning environment is growing, graduation rates are not (Dray, Lowenthal, et al. 2011)  Students need supports such the follow to have the best online learning experience:  Online readiness tools  Troubleshooting/FAQ  Access to information in a timely manner

4.  The student’s learning style should be identified to match the best individual instructional practices.  These learning styles can be identified through a learning style quiz:  http://www.schoolfamily.com/school-family-articles/article/836- learning-styles-quiz  Types of Learning Styles and possible usage methods:  Auditory & Visual – Podcast (with script), YouTube, Synchronous and Asynchronous sessions,  Kinesthetic – project base assignments, interactive activities

5.  Students and parents should be aware that online learning may not be the best instructional option.  Sample modules, courses and quiz that provide online readiness:  SORT  Learn to Learn Course  Cascadia Module  Self assessment quiz (Are you ready?) http://www.onlinestudentsupport.org/monograph/readin ess.phphttp://www.onlinestudentsupport.org/monograph/readin ess.php.

6.  Student should have the minimum components:  CUP (Computer System)  Adequate amount of Ram  Operating Systems (Window XP, Visa, Windows 7, etc.)  Cable modem, LAN, DSL  Web browser  Real Media  Acrobrat Reader  Java, Quicktime  http://www.mtu.edu/elearning/techonline/student- resources/technical-requirements/http://www.mtu.edu/elearning/techonline/student- resources/technical-requirements/

7.  Key ingredient in student achievement in the online learning environment  Watch the clip of students discussing what they need to be motivated  http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player _detailpage&v=gObdT_-uR18 http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player _detailpage&v=gObdT_-uR18

8. Dray, B., Lowenthal, P., Miszkiewicz, M., Primo, M., & Marczynsk, K. (2011). Developing on instrument to assess student readiness for online learning: a validation study. Distance Education, 32 (1),pp. 29-47. Martinez, S., Torres, H. & Giesel, V. (2006). Onlinestudentsupportservices.Retrieved on July 15, 2012 from http://www.onlinestudentsupport.org/mongraph/readiness.php.http://www.onlinestudentsupport.org/mongraph/readiness.php