In this clip Kristin Swanson identifies from extensive research factors that diminish the effectiveness of online learning. She believes that the single most factor that online students experience is isolation and that they feel marooned. They do the required tasks and then they are 'done'. She recommends three strategies that teachers keep in mind when implementing online teaching: collaboration, student synchronicity, use of multi-media, and, recognizing that 70% of human communication utilizes intonation and body language, find ways to incorporate these into the programme. This clip led me to reflect on my current online learning, i.e. my MA studies, and reflect on the purpose of the discussion threads, the feedback from tutors and the encouragement of student-student interaction. I was not actually aware of the important of these elements, but appreciate now that they are embedded in pedagogical research. While I teach face-to-face, my current course incorporates the use of a computer management system, Moodle, and this provides students with the opportunity to access self-study materials, review and preview. The information is 'out there' in my mind, but on several courses the students evince disengagement. The salient lesson for me to take from this is to build in more interactivity such as student-student and uploading items that have an accountability attached to them, rather than an option.
I really like this video. I completely understand that sense of isolation for learners using online learning, especially for younger people. I think there is still some way to go before we get it right, but the three strategies suggested were great. Technology is new, and likewise, how we teach using it. Like technology, I think there will be lots of trial and error until we find a way of using it that suits most types of learners. Collaboration is the key I think. We are social beings, after all.
Thanks Karen Swanson's research throws light on the sometimes indifference my EAP students have towards Moodle. Although our classes are face to face, we load much self-study material, as well as readings and worksheets to review and preview. Student engagement is a bit lacklustre at times. Swanson strategies suggest that more interactivity is needed, with perhaps setting collaborate pair tasks. Weekends that students can benefit most from Moodle. Our online course actually provides the strategies Swanson suggests for successful engagement. Thank you for your comments.
Thanks for uploading this video. I agree with the three strategies that were outlined, seemingly collaboration is a key tool in 21st century pedagogy whether it is online or otherwise. The use of multimedia to provide feedback is a great way to provide the human element, and I agree that it can reduce the 'transactional distance' for learners in online learning courses.
Hi Chris,
ReplyDeleteI really like this video. I completely understand that sense of isolation for learners using online learning, especially for younger people. I think there is still some way to go before we get it right, but the three strategies suggested were great. Technology is new, and likewise, how we teach using it. Like technology, I think there will be lots of trial and error until we find a way of using it that suits most types of learners. Collaboration is the key I think. We are social beings, after all.
Thanks Karen
ReplyDeleteSwanson's research throws light on the sometimes indifference my EAP students have towards Moodle. Although our classes are face to face, we load much self-study material, as well as readings and worksheets to review and preview. Student engagement is a bit lacklustre at times. Swanson strategies suggest that more interactivity is needed, with perhaps setting collaborate pair tasks. Weekends that students can benefit most from Moodle.
Our online course actually provides the strategies Swanson suggests for successful engagement. Thank you for your comments.
Hi Chris,
ReplyDeleteThanks for uploading this video. I agree with the three strategies that were outlined, seemingly collaboration is a key tool in 21st century pedagogy whether it is online or otherwise. The use of multimedia to provide feedback is a great way to provide the human element, and I agree that it can reduce the 'transactional distance' for learners in online learning courses.