Reflections

Here are some key things to remember from our first day:

First, it is important to remember that I need to complete planning the entire course BEFORE I begin teaching an online course. This will ensure that I am organized, and not "one step ahead" of the students. Also, it is important to start out with clearly defined ethical boundaries for my students, and to model these ethics throughout the year.

Another important idea to remember from today involves the realities of teaching online. From the comments of classmates who are experienced, it is clear that on-line teaching can be more cumbersome than face to face if I have not prepared adequately or realistically. (I don't need to read 90 blog entries every other night...instead assign the writing, and require students to respond to two other students blogs.)

A third concept from today comes from the "teaching simulation" (one person giving directions and the other person drawing). This truly stressed the importance of common language, clear directions,communication, feedback and positive reinforcement when dealing with online teaching.

Finally, the keynote speaker, George Theoharis, was excellent. His comments truly resonated with some inequality issues that exist in my school.

Overall a great first day.