Elevating Asynchronous Distance Learning through Excellent Online - - PowerPoint PPT Presentation

Elevating Asynchronous Distance Learning through Excellent Online Discussions

David Baker, Public Administration CSU—San Bernardino

Teaching Public Administration Conference May 17-19, 2011 Williamsburg, VA

Elevating Online Discussions

Online education is no fading fad 5.6 million enrolled fall 2009 Freedom from traditional constraints Hannay & Nevine (2006): Learning De Wever et al (2010): Group knowledge Xin & Feenberg (2006): Interaction Rourke & Anderson (2002): Self-expression

Elevating Online Discussions

Student-Centered Pedagogical Purpose(s) Link to learning objective(s) Engage while checking comprehension Encourage affiliation & socialization Include asynchronous learning experience Learn from others, hone critical thinking skills Student assessment

Elevating Online Discussions

Design of Questions Content based, concepts & principles Open ended, integrating student experiences Design to reveal comprehension & engagement Challenging, engaging critical thinking

Elevating Online Discussions

Organizing the Discussion Dividing into groups Social needs, ungraded get acquainted session Icebreakers Types of participation (substantive v. responsive) Creating interdependence (due dates) Consider a visual timeline (Table 1)

Elevating Online Discussions

Managing Discussions Keeping the discussion on track Netiquette Regular, random, & unconventional times Pre-planning involvement Controlling dysfunction Making it human

Elevating Online Discussions

Student Assessment Establishing expectations Consider a rubric (Table 2) Enforce standards Document (Figure 1)

Elevating Online Discussions

Communications Class critique (announcements) Discussion group feedback Individual coaching Monitor e-mail, respond quickly Virtual office hours

Elevating Online Discussions

Cultivating Continuous Improvement Review, evaluate, & redesign Purposeful planning & preparation