Facilitating Learning Online - APR2015-OER

1. Course Review Task Force

This case highlights challenges related to the topics we discussed last week: the needs of diverse learners in online environments.

It seems clear (from the survey data) that learners' needs aren't being met. And, because this course has had bad reviews before, we can't simply blame the instructor (who is new to online teaching). Many of us "inherit" courses designed by someone else and we have to find ways to teach effectively. This can mean we inherit a course that doesn't match our teaching perspectives or preferred approaches.

Goals of this mini-session:

Analyze a detailed case study and make recommendations on course design changes and instructional strategies that would lead to increased learner (and teacher!) satisfaction.

Tasks for participants

• Review the case study documents (course evaluations and instructor comments).
• Identify the critical issues and concerns.
• Discuss options to resolve (improve) the situation (drawing on readings or other relevant resources)
• Provide constructive feedback (in the Feedback forum) when the session is complete.

Tasks for facilitator(s)

• Lead the participants through this process (how / where) within the time allowed (Mon-Fri).
• Remind participants to provide feedback at end of the session.
• Complete the FLIF (final reflective survey)

2. Choosing Your Tools

Explore a selection of collaborative online tools to support learning. Discuss ways in which you could select the appropriate tool for a learning activity. What criteria would you use? If you try cloud-based collaborative tools, consider privacy issues and terms of use.

Goals of this activity:

Explore the use of online collaborative tools to support learning.

Tasks for participants

• Participate in an assigned task, using selected online collaborative tools.
• Provide constructive feedback (in the Feedback forum) when the session is complete

Tasks for facilitators

• Apply what you’ve learned about online facilitation, from readings and the sample mini-session facilitated by the FLO facilitators, to support your participants to achieve the intended learning outcomes.
• Take time to read/view the resources for this week’s topics to ensure you are able to support participants effectively in their learning.
• Facilitate the week’s activities in the time available (ensure that you allow time for participants to provide feedback and for the facilitators-your team-to complete the FLIF) Review the Mini-session ILOs in the Workshop Handbook to guide your planning and assessment.