Just came across this article:
and was struck once again by the thought that the potential success of online learning opportunities largely depends on the learning style of the student taking the course. Having taken online courses myself in the past, I can attest to what the author says - there is no hiding in the back of the classroom when you are online. Similarly, the lack of "structured" class time means that students have to be more self motivated... this can be challenging when students have so many distractions...
Speaking of distractions, check out this article: http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2010/10/11/1751318/can-she-go-a-month-without-facebook.html
Many friends have heard my justification for not joining Facebook - if you need more evidence of why I know I would be addicted... read the article above...
How can we provide online learning that addresses multiple intelligences? That is the question for today...
A few quick suggestions:
1. Infuse kinesthetic components - ie. maybe courses have Wii type technology infused, or students have to "create" something that is then shared through the online component in class.
2. Presentations could be skyped or video-fed live keeping the "in-person" aspect as part of a communications course.
3. In virtual worlds (like Second Life), students can participate in a virtual hands-on exercise. For example, students in a local health academy use Second Life to visit a virtual hospital room; they take care of patients, move equipment, etc.
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