Engaging learners can be challenging in a face-to-face environment. In an online environment, engaging learners presents its own set of challenges that can make this an even more difficult task for an instructor of an online class. There are several tools and strategies available to learners that instructors can use to enhance the online learning environment.
In order to involve learners in building content knowledge, instructors can utilize Google Scholar and other online research databases to provide access to scholarly writings. Students are able to access many of these resources for free and can expand on the knowledge base that they already have by conducting research and reviewing the available literature on a topic. Another way to engage learners in building content knowledge is to utilize problem-based learning. Problem-based learning is a when a small group of learners are given a scenario based on real-world problems and need to come up with solutions to the problem (Durrington, Berryhill, & Swafford, 2006). By giving students assignments that apply to the real-world, students will be more engaged and will be more active in constructing knowledge related to the task.
In order to engage learners in communication with their peers and instructors, instructors can make use of the many social software options available, including Skype, instant messaging applications, blogs, and wikis (Siemens, 2008). These are generally all free tools available to that can make communication and collaboration amongst peers and instructors more accessible. Instructors can also make use of asynchronous discussion forums within the online learning environment. Discussions can be mediated by the instructor or by a student moderator using rubric with clearly stated rules and guidelines for posting (Durrington, Berryhill, & Swafford. 2006). It may also be useful for the instructor to break the students into smaller discussion groups to prevent students from feeling overwhelmed by the number of posts within the course discussion.
In order to engage students in collaborative tasks within the online learning environment, instructors should focus on Problem-Based Learning. An asynchronous discussion area, chat room, email or other social software can be used by group members to come up with a solution to a real-life based problem. Instructors may also want to consider setting up a Frequently Asked Questions area (similar to our Class Cafe) where students and the instructor can interact in a question/answer format which can help to create a supportive learning environment (Durrington, Berryhill, & Swafford, 2006).
Link to Graphic Organzier
Durrington, V. A., Berryhill, A., & Swafford, J. (2006). Strategies for enhancing student interactivity in an online environment. College Teaching, 54(1), 190−193.
Siemens, G. (2008, January). Learning and knowing in networks: Changing roles for educators and designers. ITForum.
Sara, these are some wonderful ideas to use in the classroom. I especailly like the idea of using an are for Frequently Asked Questions. I agree that it would help to create a supportive learning environment.
ReplyDeleteSome additional ideas for students to retrieve content could be the use of online text books, podcasts, content specific videos, wikipedia, and teacher websites.