Communicate 4.1.1 Evaluation Methods and Communication Practices Quest

Communicate 4.1.1 Evaluation Methods and Communication Practices Quest

• How do communication practices in the online environment correlate to effective feedback?  An open line of communication is important in any classroom setting.  Communication avenues are available in a traditional classroom in many ways (paper/pencil, discussion, teacher questioning, student questions, written comments, etc.).  In the virtual classroom, there are just as many ways to communicate....but they are different.  Finding ways to communicate with students through discussion boards, announcements, reminders, comic strips, and helpful links provide students with many ways to receive assistance through online learning. Opening these lines of virtual communication are important to keep students on track.  Reaching these students allows the instructor to provide meaningful, effective feedback.
• Why is authentic feedback important for online learners?  Authentic feedback allows teachers to individualize and differentiate instruction.  Students feel a connection with the instructor and are empowered through their learning.  
• In what ways might an instructor enrich a student’s online experience through feedback? Online learning provides so many ways for instructors to enrich a students experience.  In my opinion, the most powerful way is to provide them with differentiated instruction.  Meeting students' needs and providing enrichment is an important part of any classroom.  Sharing links and resources for extensions in learning is easy when communicating online.  There's an endless amount of resources on the web and instructors can use a student's access to it.  Enrichment and remediation are both equally important and can be easily provided through online learning.