MLK Jr Day + Online Learning

Yesterday was MLK Jr. Day. The college organizes an in-service day with educational presentations, food and more. I couldn’t help but dwell on some of the comments made and how they relate to online learning.

“…their quest for education”
The concept that education is indeed a quest interests me. Students who attack their education like Don Quixote chasing windmills, but maybe not as delusional, are going to succeed in ways unimaginable to those who merely receive their education. Unfortunately, many of our students are not sure what the goal of their quest might be. As instructors of online learning, it may be more difficult to engage students in spontaneous post-class advisory sessions. Look for ways to help students discover their quest. Encourage students who seem bored or lost, to speak with an advisor.

“…the perception of differences”
The keynote speaker stressed the concept that perceiving differences is not racism. Actually, the perception of our differences ought to be the fuel for our conversation. It’s what can be the most interesting. Everything I can learn from you is defined by our differences. The anonymity that online learning can provide works against this. Many school systems are now incorporating student photos into their LMSs. I believe this is a positive addition. I predict conversations will be more real and ultimately more meaningful.

“…Conversation is a process”
This is kind of a no-brainer, but it’s good to be reminded. There is no need to treat our interactions with students as Q&A. Have conversations instead. Encourage students to talk with each other and teach each other.

“…social-ability: 63.3%”
Incoming first year students reported that the social aspects of their college experience are rather important. If your online course doesn’t allow for social interaction, your students’ expectations and needs are being ignored. Add a discussion board that permits off-topic discussion, call your students, blog with your students, skype, podcast, IM….

The remaining thought I had yesterday doesn’t really relate to online learning: I will not be putting in a water garden any time soon! Just way too much work. Or maybe this does apply… show learners up front what is involved in a course and the outcome of their labors. I now know that even though the outcome of water garden can be spectacular, I would not enjoy the process or the maintenance.