What Are the Best Features of an Online Class?

I’m considering the design implications for a small number of online classes at the Jr. high where I teach. This will be tying in with the doctorate in Teaching and Learning that I’m working on. Research questions involving online class design are some of the topics I am considering for my dissertation.

Please mark all of the components in the poll above that you think are the most valuable in an online class. Don’t just click one; pick as many as you think are of value.

Also, if you know of a component that I have not thought of, please PM me and I will add it to the poll.

There are only 10 poll choices allowed so the overflow is below. Please speak to these if you have any insight. The choices marked “hypothetical” are features that are rare or non-existent; please comment on those if you think they would be valuable, that is, if they could be successfully implemented.


(hypothetical) Video Conference Discussions
(hypothetical) Virtual Reality Discussions
(hypothetical) Thumbprint Scanning to Combat Cheating
(hypothetical) Video Conference Tutoring
(hypothetical) Video Conference Lectures (ask questions in real-time)
Podcast Assignments
Proctored Exams

 

I love have a few have voted (including me) and there are not votes for discussions!

 

LOL! How funny!!

 

You know, that's a good idea, MC! I'll wait for a while and then do that.

 

I found myself wanting to say "asynchronous" instruction. That is, doing stuff on my own time versus activities at a specified time. That is not exactly what you meant but I felt the need.

 

Thank you, Dave. Yes, asynchronous instruction is really the basis for most online classes. Do have any ideas on how to improve on the concept? What could be innovated? What could be done better? You one of the members who's opinion I value highly.

 

Yes, no surprise there. I also believe that research papers are one of the most effective ways to learn. Like most of us, I tend to remember what I write about and I tend to forget the things I have learned for a test, unless I make a concerted effort to remember.

 

For a threaded discussion board, threaded discussions seem to rank pretty low on the totem pole.

 

Thanks for the kind words, Michael.

As for improvements to your poll, I'll think about it.

It seems no surprise that people would rather jump off a cliff than do this: "Oral Presentations by Student via Video File"

 

Or maybe have a tooth drilled without novocaine!

 

That is interesting isn't it Ted? But most online class TD's are really a pain, don't you think?

 

This is going to sound somewhat psycho, however my favorite part of online/distance learning is not having to deal with people. I like being able to be in my own environment, do my own thing, work when I want to work.

I don't really have a passion for school, however I respect the heck out of it and will continue to pursue it via distance options. I will check a box if you add "being a hermit."

Brez

 

I agree with Dave.

 

Not psycho at all; I totally agree.

 

I also agree. In what way would you say that improves your learning?