How to Facilitate Online Learning
Online learning has become popular over the past decade. Learning from home is more convenient for many people who also work full time. Knowing how to facilitate the online learning experience is the key to helping students learn all they can from the class
- Set aside an area in your home specifically for working. Have all the equipment you need, such as a computer, filing cabinet, desk, printer, fax, webcam and headset. The area you choose should be free of noise and interruptions.
- Prepare the course procedures and polices for each student. Every college, university or vocational school typically has course procedures and policies already formatted, but it is up to you, the facilitator, to address all procedure and policy with students.
- Keeping in contact with students is important when teaching an online class. Give the students contact information, such as an email address and phone number. Designate the hours of the day you can be reached by phone. This enables students to ask questions or seek help if needed.
- Be sure the students are notified of assignment due dates. Grade the assignments as quickly as possible and provide feedback. This helps the student see where he or she is lacking and needs improvement.
- Keep in mind that students who take online courses come from different walks of life. Some may have jobs and are going to school at night, some may be young students, while others are continuing their education. Consider having each student write a short biography to better understand each of them.