Comments on: The “Good Things List”

By: Ann Cary

Ann Cary — Thu, 07 Feb 2019 14:53:15 +0000

Your framing of “high-tech and high-touch” is really great, Peter, and I think that balancing the two in a way that they complement each other is key. I’m continually curious about what can/should be automated and what can’t/shouldn’t be automated.

By: Scot Leavitt

Scot Leavitt — Wed, 06 Feb 2019 21:52:19 +0000

In addition to many of the things already listed, I have some informational emails about the course design, types of assignments, etc., that are emailed out one per night during the first four days of the term. This way each email students receive has a specific topic, which is identified in the subject of the email.

By: Peter Seaman

Peter Seaman — Wed, 06 Feb 2019 17:02:56 +0000

Recently a colleague, who does not teach online, said, “I prefer high-touch to high-tech.” But does it really have to be one or the other? This article – and Jimena’s comment – make me think online learning experiences can be high-tech AND high-touch. Thanks, Ann!

By: Jordan Durbin

Jordan Durbin — Tue, 05 Feb 2019 18:08:06 +0000

Like Ann and Jimena, I send out an email a week before the course begins outlining the core requirements of the course and attaching a syllabus encouraging students to review. I also open up the D2L course for students a week in advance so students have access to the course.
Communicating regularly at the beginning of the term is key to student success. I send two emails the first week discussing deadlines and course organization. I encourage students to print a copy of the course schedule and refer to it often in order to meet the deadlines of the two weekly assignments in the course. In addition, when students do not submit an assignment on time during the first two weeks, I send an email only to those students giving them a short extension to maximize the student’s potential of being successful in the course. By week three, students are turning in assignments on time and the course flows seamlessly.
I work hard to create an environment of trust and clear expectations for students.
Thank you Ann for sharing your Good Things List.

By: Jimena Alvarado

Jimena Alvarado — Tue, 05 Feb 2019 04:11:28 +0000

My absolute must-do is to email students 3 times before the beginning of the term with the full syllabus, and a short video of me describing the class. I think of it as informed consent. If the class is not a good fit, they can still find another class, and we all have a much better time throughout the term.