Category: Teaching and Learning
-
Jigsaw
A learning strategy you might find effective is an adaptation of the Jigsaw approach. Jigsaw was developed in the early 1970’s by Elliot Aronson. This short video describes a version of the Jigsaw approach adapted for live online sessions. It requires less movement between groups and includes an optional assessment…
-
Managing Online Discussions
A principal reason many instructors chose synchronous online environments is the real time interaction this mode affords. Synchronous environments most closely replicate the dynamism of a face-to-face discussion. However, synchronous environments can present technical challenges for both instructors and students. As a result, many instructors choose asynchronous environments, prompting the…
-
How to Assess Students Online
In a traditional face –to-face environment, students are assessed with what are called traditional assessments. These include tests and research papers. Alternative assessments, like portfolios or performances, are less common but can often be deployed in subjects like Art, Music or in spaces like Science Labs. Group projects and presentations…
-
Tips for Teaching Online in a Pinch
Manage Expectations This is new territory for faculty and students – approach it with an experimental and planful mindset, and you’ve got this! Review your syllabus and identify items (activities, projects, presentations) that may need to be modified for online delivery. Accept that you cannot become an expert overnight and…
-
Communicating with Students Online
In the event of an interruption, some early steps can prevent confusion later on. Watch on YouTube
-
Online Learning Formats
Two approaches to teaching online have been identified: synchronous (which takes place real time) and asynchronous (which takes place over time). This video describe both and shares considerations when choosing the best approach for you and your students. Watch on YouTube
-
Managing Online Discussions
This short video should provide you with guidance on how to manage an online asynchronous discussion. It is not a How-To on technology. It focuses on questioing techniques and how to foster student engagement. Watch on YouTube
-
Problem Solving
A problem well-defined is a problem half solved. ― John Dewey Problem Solving – an ongoing activity in which learners take what they know to discover what they don’t know. It involves overcoming obstacles by generating hypotheses, testing those predictions, and arriving at satisfactory solutions. According to Mayer and Wittrock…
-
Inquiry
Inquiry – a methodology that relies upon the idea that individuals are able to learn by investigating scenarios and problems, and through social experiences. Online learning has become a critical component of modern instruction, offering flexibility and accessibility to diverse student populations. However, many online courses remain content-heavy and instructor-driven,…
-
Interactive Instruction
Interactive instruction focuses on interaction among learners, with the instructional leader and with other experts to enhance understanding and improve communication and collaboration skills. Interactive instruction can be challenging when teaching in online asynchronous environments. When thinking about designing an online course, instructors often look to traditional, face-to-face teaching experiences…
Learn at a Distance 