Beginning of the Third Course

This is the beginning of the third class where we will actually begin the process of designing our online class. I have learned so much in the first 2 classes, learning styles, teaching styles and how to use Wimba to mention a few things. I discovered that you develop close friendships with people in an online class, something that I didn't think possible. How can you become close to people you never see F2F? It was actually quite easy and effortless, did I just get lucky? NO! The course was designed to facilitate student interaction and build a sense of community. What I ultimately learned in the first two classes is that it Online classes just don't happen it's not something you slap together, it has to be planned and well thought out.

My previous teaching experience has been 2 hour workshops that are offered in the Library. It takes some planning and thought, I create handouts and PowerPoint presentation. The most detailed workshop I teach is basic Excel I have been using the same handout since I started. I change the handouts for the other workshops as the technology changes. I am also very good at finding resources, so how will this help me with the process in designing online courses? I am not sure, but what will help is the fact that I have learned to be flexible because the workshops I teach have students of all ages and technical capabilities.

The design process will require more thought and consideration. I will have to consider how much work can be accomplished not only in the span of a week but in an entire trimester. I will need not only resources but assignments and topics for discussion. There is also layout, colors and fonts to be considered.

I expect the design process for the online course will be challenging and exciting. The obvious things that I expect to accomplish are: what subject and what I expect them to learn. My overall goal is to learn how to design a course that is easy to navigate, has clear and concise instructions, and engages the students. I want the students to feel a sense of community, feel safe to post their thoughts on the discussion threads, and most importantly I want the students to finish the course with a sense of accomplishment. This will not be easy, but the first 2 courses have given me a good foundation to build upon. But I know that if I keep my goals in mind and not allowed myself to get distracted I can do it.