Instructional Post #3-Due Feb. 17

Online Presence

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I know we were asked to address one example that increases online presence, but I really wanted to mention two, sorry!

1. Splash Page!

I loved reading about the splash pages in this module because it allowed me to think about how I can redesign my current splash pages. The image to the left is a sample of what one of my current splash pages looks like. I like that Jones (2013) stated that you don't have to be a graphic designer because I am not. However, I created my graphics using Canva. I also make sure to clearly outline where learners need to go to effectively move through my course. However, when I viewed the sample splash page for the mythology course...I felt like my splash page is lacking in graphic design. I believe I need to step up my game!! First impressions are important! 

2. Communication 

How we communicate to our audience in online learning is extremely important, and Shackelford and Maxwell (2012) highlight the importance of providing multiple modes of communication. Learners have different technology comfort zones and in many cases different time zones, so instructors need to provide learners with different forms of communication. Here is a list of a few tools I use to differentiate my modes of communication: 

• Jing Allows instructors to screen capture and send links or embed video. 
• Zoom:  (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.online video conferencing software that allows users to schedule meetings and share screens.
• Vocaroo:  (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.Allows teachers to provide verbal feedback through an audio podcast.

These tools help me differentiate my communication as well as show learners that I care about their responses and who they are as individuals. As an educator who educates educators, I like to practice what I preach. If I tell my pre-service teachers to make sure they demonstrate respect and care to their students, then I must do the same. Plante and Asselin (2014) identified studies that focused on the importance of instructors demonstrating care in online learning, and learners need to hear and see that the instructor cares. I make sure to provide written narratives, vocal narratives(podcast), and visual feedback.  There are times when I know the material is of a sensitive nature and simply writing a response will not do. I know that my learners need to see my expresseions because as we all know, people read the text in the current mood they are in, and I want to make sure they clearly see and hear my reaction to their work. 

References
Jones, B. (2013, July 17). 6 eLeanring intro screen ideas. Retrieved from https://elearningart.com/blog/6-elearning-intro-screen-ideas/

Plante, K., & Asselin, M. E. (2014). Best practices for creating social presence and caring behaviors online. Nursing Education Perspectives, 35(4), 219-223.


Shackelford, J. L., & Maxwell, M. (2012). Contribution of learner–instructor interaction to sense of community in graduate online education. MERLOT Journal of Online Learning and Teaching. Pieejams http://jolt. merlot. org/vol8no4/shackelford_1212. htm [skatīts 15.11. 2013.].