QUALITY ASSURANCE IN EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

Most students will expect you to be sitting at your computer whenever they send you a question by email. Of course, that is not practical, nor is it reasonable. So it is a good idea to give students a time frame in which you will respond, with 24-48 hours being typical.

And it’s not enough to just communicate frequently. You must also communicate effectively. While some students (especially new online students) will want you to “take them by the hand” through each step, if you already have clearly written instructions, you can direct them to the instructions.

Keep in mind that most students are not asking you questions to bother you – usually, they just want to make sure they are doing what you want them to do. So be understanding, even when you get questions that make you shake your head.

If you get the same questions frequently, it is a good idea to save the questions – and your responses – to create a “frequently asked questions” section.

3) You must let your personality shine through!

• If students just wanted to read a book, they wouldn’t need you to read it for them. So, when teaching online, avoid taking the “easy way out” by simply posting a few readings and having students answer the questions:
• • Add a little of your personality to your assignments and communications (but be careful when using humor, as it is difficult to convey online).
• • Give real life examples that you have learned from being the subject matter “expert”. • Create interesting and interactive assignments to help students really learn the material.

Good teaching, like being good at anything, takes practice.

• If you are clear…if you stay in close contact with your students…and if you create an interesting learning experience, you will be the online instructor that students want to learn from! Are you looking to teach an online course for the first time? Or have you already taught online but are looking for some tips to help you become more effective?