Selma Vonderwell

Factors that Influence Participation In Online Learning

Abstract This study explored what factors influenced learner participation in two sections of a graduate online course at a Midwestern university. Findings indicated that online learner participation and patterns of participation are influenced by the following factors: technology and interface characteristics, content area experience, student roles and instructional tasks, and information overload. Effective online learning requires interdependence for a shared understanding of learning goals in a learning community. Monitoring student participation and patterns of participation closely can help instructors identify student needs and scaffold learning accordingly.

Asynchronous Discussions and Assessment in Online Learning.

Abstract This case study explored asynchronous online discussions, assessment processes, and the meaning students derived from their experiences in five online graduate courses at the Colleges of Education of two Midwestern higher education institutions. The findings suggest that asynchronous online discussions facilitate a multidimensional process of assessment demonstrated in the aspects of structure, self-regulatory activities, learner autonomy, learning community and student writing skills. The students valued the discussions as an essential component of their online learning. Further research is needed to understand the characteristics of online assessment, and what assessment strategies or criteria enhance assessment and learning.

Assessing Online Learning and Teaching: Adapting the Minute Paper

ConclusionOnline journals provided an essential way for the instructor to check student progress and understanding and to improve teaching and learning. Online learning requires the reconstruction of student and instructor roles, relations and practices. Instructors need to be aware of strategies and techniques they can use for improved communication and formative assessment of teaching and learning. Through adequate adaptation of the Minute Paper format or other classroom assessment techniques in online classrooms, instructors can benefit from ongoing assessment of student learning and their practices.