Category Archives: Triggering Event

OTL301 – Post4

I continue to alter each of these assignments to suit my face to face workshop rather than an online open learning class. While the assigned reading in this lesson is geared toward blended learning environments, I was happy to find helpful information in regards to f2f classrooms as well.  I was particularly drawn to the section on creating social presence in a face to face classroom. The article made me aware of the importance of creating opportunities for community and collaboration during each workshop I teach.  We usually start each workshop with a group accessioning activity. After reading this article I am going to make a couple small changes to ensure the students must work together even more in collaboration to ensure accurate specimen sorting and processing.

The second section of this article on cognitive presence also got me brainstorming ways to keep the students engaged in critical thinking throughout the class. About half of the workshop is traditional ‘lecture’ learning and the other half is hands-on. I am in the process of creating a presentation to go along with the lecture material to ensure we cover visual, auditory as well as kinesthetic learning styles.

 

OTL301 – Post 1

In addition to teaching through TRU, I am currently working towards earning a degree in Health Administration online through Athabasca University.  This online learning experience has given me some valuable insight.  Each course I take is slightly different in the way it is organized and facilitated. To me, what stands out the most in an effective course is organization and cohesiveness.  Classes that are clearly outlined, organized and well structured help students clearly understand what is expected in the course.  There must be a sense of consistency between the outline, the assignments and learning activities. Lesson notes should always agree with the learning materials and never contradict or confuse the information.

One class I took recently was a struggle for me. I found myself venting to friends and family about how frustrating the class was. While the information presented was relatively simple, the way it was presented was disorganized and often contradicted itself.  There were many mistakes in answer keys for learning activities, the textbook sometimes contradicted the class notes.  As an online learner, I felt confused for much of the time and second-guessing myself often. This translated to a feeling of being alone in my studies and even made me hesitate to reach out to the facilitator.

The contrast between a well organized course and a poorly organized one is huge. Organization and cohesiveness gives the feeling of a supportive environment. It is easy for students to ask questions in a well organized course.  I wish I could take that class again in a different learning environment!