Online learning and technology

Online learning is much different than in person learning because there is less one-on-one interaction.  Even when utilizing blogs or discussion boards, there are less students reading or hearing your work than if it were presented in class.  One suggestion that I would have is for the work to be due two or so days prior to the comment due dates, that way everyone has a chance to submit the work prior to the comments.  I’ve been in classes that functioned both ways – with work being due before comments are due, and with work & comments due at the same time – and the comments seemed more complete and spread out when the dates are staggered. 

The main benefit with online learning is that there is less wasted time, mainly in class, but also in driving to class, prepping for class, etc.  I take mainly online classes, but have found when I take in person classes there is a lot of talking prior to class beginning, interruptions, questions that could be answered elsewhere and just a lot of wasted time.  I have a fairly tight schedule right now, so for me online classes are much more efficient.

            The technology that was the most beneficial for me this semester was the blog.  I certainly didn’t love using it; in fact the majority of the time I had to close my office door when I was trying to upload something so my high schooler didn’t pick up any new inventive swear word combinations that she may not hear at school J.  This from someone who, prior to this point, considered myself to be familiar and comfortable with computers and technology.  I will use it beginning this summer as lead up to the completion of my book.  Oh, that crash you hear?  That’s my laptop, sailing through the window. 

photo courtesy of http://www.pc-physicians.com/services/virus-removal/woman-yelling-at-computer/ 

And here are the directions for how to get your blog photo to show up on search engines if you're using WordPress.