Key elements for successful online instruction include:

• Humanizing online instruction by creating an atmosphere of respect and stressing the importance of each individual learner.
  
  
• Presenting material in a personal voice that talks to each individual student. For example avoid phrases such as "the student will ..." and replace them with phrases like "you will ...".
  
  

• Being very clear and succinct when using the written word. With online instruction there is less chance of gauging student reaction and understanding and being able to adjust your words and comments to correct misunderstandings.
  

• Using the power of the Internet and media available. Don't try to recreate the lecture environment. Check out the article by Tom March "Working the Web for Education" for some good ideas. Exploring this web site (and related links) might keep you interested and engaged for several hours.
  
  
• Encouraging and facilitating meaningful online communication both learner to faculty and learner to learner.
  
  
• Designing activities that will engage your students in active learning.
  
  
• Providing timely and meaningful feedback to your students.

After reading through our key elements web pages on communication, active learning and feedback take our self assessment to see what you remember.

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Check out our "Tips and Strategies" pages to get some practical ways of incorporating these key elements into your online instruction.

Can you think of any other key elements in online instruction? Share them with us and we'll include them on this page.
Email your key elements to mdde615@home.com