Preparing Students for Distance Learning Presented by John R. Knue, Ed.D. Baylor University (

Overview Rationale Terminology /Methodology Types of D. L. offerings Orientation techniques for a two-way environment Q&A

Rationale Studies show anxiety is higher in a D.L. course; impacts attrition Studies show student performance benefits from orientation Orientation helps students focus on “content” rather than the technology Students are often presumed ready

More Rationale Quality/expectations may be “perceived” as lower Necessary to build student & instructor comfort /confidence level Natural to want to know about policy and procedures Clarify instructor’s goals & students’ attitudes

Asynchronous Internet or Web-based courses Video-based / Telecourses

Asynchronous Courses Internet or Telecourses Initial (on-site) orientation? Flexible or prescribed schedule? Testing requirements Access to instructor

Synchronous One-way video; two-way audio Two-way audio & video

Synchronous Courses One-way video; two-way audio Instructor cannot see students; can only hear individual caller May be facilitator or monitor Requires closer attention to student discipline Usually includes multiple sites

Synchronous Courses Two-way audio and video Interactive TV (ITV) or Videoconferencing Very common for secondary and post- secondary Uses T1 (telephone lines) to transmit real-time audio & compressed video

D.L. Offerings Complete Degree Programs Individual Course Offerings

General Issues Is D.L. appropriate for the learner’s individual style or situation Are handbooks/guidelines provided? Is there an orientation process? Are there specific “Residency” requirements?

General Issues (Cont.) Student Services offered Contact person Advising Access to library /other resources Admission & registration Tuition & fees Financial Aid

ITV Conditions Students may be at: Both origin & receive site(s) Receive site(s) only Clarify receive site assistance Another teacher Facilitator Technical person

ITV Orientation Students at the “Origin Site” Often surprised to be in D.L. environment May need orientation to microphones Will need to learn to view monitors May resent sharing the instructor

ITV Orientation Students at the “Receive Site(s)” May also be surprised to be in D.L. environment May need orientation to microphones Will most always be on camera May have on-location facilitator or other May have to learn about equipment

All Students Learner responsibilities: Patience Persistence Punctuality Presence Participation

All Students Establish the rules & expectations early on for... Asking questions Responding Entering late Handling technical difficulties What to do in case of cancellation at origin or receive site

All Students Provide an orientation to the equipment for each location (demo) Work to blend the sites with student questions/activities between the sites Use icebreakers and warm-up exercises freely Give all students a chance to be on camera

Questions? Discussion!