Based on my personal
online learning experiences, along with the online course that I created and
the various articles about authentic learning online, I believe "authentic
online learning" is possible.
I believe it's important
to present an online course to the learner with all of the ground rules. Instructors that introduce themselves
and provide a clear syllabus are off to a
great start. Learners may have more
flexibility in the online learning environment, but many of us still come with
our traditional background. We want to
know the objectives, standards and how we are going to be assessed. This all needs to be provided with a clear and
concise timeline. The remainder of the learning process, if it is a well laid
out course, comes mostly from time and effort on the learners part. I'm not giving the instructor a free
pass. They need to be interesting and
engaging, but due to the flexibility that is inherent in most online courses,
learners have to make the time.
The
article Authentic online earning:
Aligning learner needs, pedagogy and technology, quotes Maor and Volet (2007)
"Factors such as motivation, readiness to study, technical skills and lack
of time due to workloads, or family commitments are common barriers to
completing online courses." What
this is saying to me, is that, it's not necessarily the quality of the course
that interferes and makes learners unsuccessful in the online environment, it's
more likely external factors.
An
engaging course that encourages conversations through threaded discussions,
along with opportunities for independent and collaborative assignments create
an environment where participation is required.
I've taken courses that didn't have a synchronous component, and that
was most likely due to the inept technology at the time. I prefer the combination of synchronous and
asynchronous, as it makes my classmates and instruction more real. I enjoy the
face to face time and conversations, both free flowing and more directed.
As
with any teaching experience, it is imperative that instructors evaluate their
courses. Keep courses fresh with the
latest research information. Make sure
that new technology and tools are used.
Most importantly, make sure that students are encouraged in the 4 C's:
communication, collaboration, critical thinking and creativity, just like we do
in the brick and mortar classroom.
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