Engaging Student Learners
There are many tools that distance education formats use to engage learners. These tools are constantly being developed and they are advancing quickly. The content of online learning programs use tools such as online databases, streaming media, and e-books. An example of an online database would be Academic Search Premier. This data base provides a variety of resources for a variety of topics. There are so many different tools that is very important to use the correct tools for the correct task according to the article by Durrington, Berryhill, and Swafford (2006).
Collaboration tools that are now being used in online learning programs are wikis, blogs, and chat forums. These tools allow students to communicate and collaborate with each other about their current studies. Students often learn from each other which makes this portion of learning critical.
Communication tools may be the most important tools when engaging learners. This is because there must be communication between the instructor and the student as well as among the students. Without effective communication there is not a positive learning environment and it can often become difficult for students to succeed. There are many different tools when it comes to communication. A few of these tools are email, skype, discussion boards, and classroom cafes. It is most important for the instructor to be open, respectful, and communicate effectively with his/her students.
References
Durrington, V. A., Berryhill, A., & Swafford, J. (2006). Strategies for enhancing student interactivity in an online environment. College Teaching, 54(1), 190−193.
I also agree that communication tools are vital to distance learning format. For examples the class bulletin board or e-mail discussion list, students can collaboratively work in pairs, small groups or the whole class throughout the entire week. The asynchronous nature of e-mail makes it suitable for more complex writing and problem-solving tasks than could be accomplished via synchronous discussion in a class. It is also important that communication is active with the instructor and student to ensure expectations are met. Online learning has more communication options available for the students and instructors to interact. As there is a variety of modes of communication available, students can have the freedom to select the type of mode they like to use. Good communication is essential for successful learning.
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