Online learning is a comprehensive term that includes a number of instructional environments and approaches.
Asynchronous Online Courses
These types of course offerings do not take place in real–time. Students are provided with content and assignments and are given a time frame to complete course work and exams. Interaction usually takes place through discussion boards, blogs and wikis. As a result, there is no class meeting time. Asynchronous online learning environments are effective for students with time constraints or busy schedules.
Synchronous Online Courses
These types of course offerings require the instructor and all enrolled students to interact online simultaneously. Similar in some ways to a webinar, participants interact through text, video or audio chat. Synchronous learning environments enable students to participate in a course from a distance in real time.
Hybrid Courses
Hybrid courses, also known as blended courses, are learning environments that allow for both in–person and online interaction. Typically, hybrid courses meet in person several times during a semester and provide for computer–based communication in between those face to face sessions.
Providing Continuity
Keeping in touch with students is vital during any changes to your class(es) because of a crisis impacting all or part of campus. You may want to let students know about changes in schedules, assignments, procedures, and broader course expectations. Early and frequent communication can ease student anxiety, and save you from becoming overwhelmed with individual questions.
Interruptions of courses can occur for a variety of reasons. During an interruption of their classes, students may experience confusion and/or anxiety. It’s best to have a plan in place to keep students informed about how the class will proceed.
Distributing Materials
In the event of an interruption, you may need to provide an updated syllabus that modifies the planned course activities, assignments, content and due dates. Once you have establish clear communication procedures and pathways, you may want to send updated course materials. There are many ways to do this.
Curating Content
Many different multimedia resources are available online so you should not feel the need to create all of the course materials for your students. In the event of an unplanned interruption, you may not have the time to master content creation tools and then create, edit and post content. A good first step is to search Fordham University Library databases for readings, link to websites and use existing videos and podcasts to integrate media into your course.