Week 3 Assignment 2

Steps Essential for setting up effective online experiences for adult learners?
"Focus on social presence activities for both learners and faculty."(Boettcher 2010, pg. 51)
It amounts to the same importance as introducing oneself when entering a room. People are more relaxed to interact if they are allowed to know who they are dealing with, and building a social component makes focusing learning transition more natural. In the online format, questions can be presented not only to the instructor but to other students as well who may be able to assist each other with answers. (pg. 73)


Why is it necessary to communicate clear expectations to online learners?
"Clear and unambigious guidelines about what is expected of learners and what they should expect from an instructor make a significant contribution to ensuring understanding and satisfaction in an online course." (Boettcher 2010, pg. 55)  I believe this helps learners either appreciate the coursework that lies ahead or.....allows them to decide if there in the wrong course. I have been in many traditional classroom where after the syllabus was handed out or the instructor explained the goals of the course, I would rethink my desire to go any further.  It also serves to motivate students to be prepared for the amount of dedication and learning that is expected and serves to prevent last minute surprises. Boettcher also brings out the point that teaching over several different time zones can present a real issue if deadlines are not clarifyed or adhered to.

What additional considerations should the instructor take into account when setting up an online learning experience, especially one that targets adult learning?
In an online environment we cannot assume that learners know how to communicate effectively with an instructor or their fellow students." (Boettcher 2010, pg. 72)  It is important that the instructor be able to assess where his/her students are in the process of online learning before making assumptions.  It is helpful for the instructor to take a "preweek" of introduction time to find out what is in their minds and what they think they know." (pg. 79)