SESSION CLOSED
9:15 – 9:45 AM | Drinko Library 402
Abstract: While student engagement has been an ever-present necessity in distance education, the environment of the past two years has pushed course delivery modes and brought the challenge to the forefront. Active learning via student engagement is a crucial part of the learning experience; an element that must be leveraged in a different fashion when it comes to virtual means. How do we continue the “discussion” when it comes to distance education? Let’s talk about setting the stage for your students. First, explaining expectations for the engagement portion of your course, then creating elements that are applicable to the content, and last but definitely not least, your participation.
First, it is vital to set the expectations for students in terms of how they need to participate in active learning via “discussion” in the course. When relaying initial expectations, it is best to be clear and concise. Put simplistically, the requirement of initial post and replies, along with a simple rubric. Higher level learning and more rigorous content can call for more detailed expectations. (Example to be given of a discussion rubric)
Second, you have a blank canvas when it comes to creating the mode and substance of your “discussion.” Blackboard and coordinating tools offer several options for your student engagement. While tools are an important part of the work, that part will be brief in today’s presentation. Blackboard Discussion Board tool is a great start, but don’t let it hold you back. We will talk about several methods of encouraging active learning for students; including case studies, role play scenarios, debates, and reflections, along with encouraging student led questioning.
Third, it is important to set an example. Participate in your students’ active learning. While the scenario is flipped from an instructor led face-to-face experience to a student led virtual setting, instructor participation is still crucial. Be active in the discussion, guiding when appropriate, while also encouraging critical thinking and providing feedback.
Ultimately, I want to set the stage for you and get excited about how you can engage your students in “discussion” in your courses. Creating scenarios where students are critically thinking and actively learning promotes a learning environment conducive to retention. Let’s get started!
Facilitator: Diana Adams (Instructional Designer, Instructional Design Center)
Session Format: HyFlex