Online Teaching

Our values and approach in FYW transfer well to online settings. But, here are a few specific reminders:

Don't Forget People & Learners Sit Behind the Screen

• Give Clear Instructions

• Break Down Large Projects into Smaller Chunks by Paying Close Attention to Scaffolding.

  • Scaffolding: every task supports the following task. Scaffolded tasks increase in complexity.

• Design (in)formal moments of reflection and seek feedback from students

Don't Forget About Your Learning Objectives

• What knowledge, skills, abilities, and/or experiences does your class invite students to move towards or master?

• What experiences and knowledges do your students bring to the class, and how are they assets/resources for their learning and growth?

• Learning Objectives are the destination.

• The projects are the "sights" along the way: chances for you to gauge and make progress towards the destination.

• Course technologies are the vehicle.

Don't Give Course Technologies More Power than They Deserve

• The tools we use should, above all, lead to and/or enhance student learning.

• There is no "magic" technology.

• Keep it simple (for yourself and students).

• Give students time to learn course technologies.

Don't Assume "Once" is Enough

Students need more than one way to access information, represent information, and demonstrate learning:

• Provide Multiple Means of Engagement

• Provide Multiple Means of Representation

• Provide Multiple Means of Action and Expression

Dr. Casey McArdle (WRAC faculty!) and Jessie Borgman's book is a useful resource.