Chapter 8

Chapter 8 talked about ELearning and the advantages and disadvantages that it has. I never knew about ELearning until I read this particular chapter. For people like me who are new to exactly what ELearning is let’s just say it consists of three basic components: 1. Instructional and learning strategies, 2. Pedagogical models or constructs, and 3. Learning technologies, eLearning contexts range from hybrid classes to those completely online and at a distance from the teacher eLearning can help schools meet the needs of a variety of students.

At GSU I am taking an online class. I NEVER KNEW I WAS ACTUALLY APART OF AN ELEARN CLASS!!! From personal experiences of my own I can tell you some pros and cons of having an online class. The number one reason an eLearning class is great for students especially college students is that it works well for those that are unable to get to the college itself. Time, transportation and location are things that work well for me in my online class. The thing I despise most forgetting that I have an assignment due only because I don’t have a physical classroom to report to. This causes me to miss a lot of assignments and not have a true feel of my professor.

The chapter discussed guidelines for creating eLearning opportunities. Teachers must work toward building a community of learners and consider what the hidden curriculum means for the students in the class. To facilitate online learning, teachers can organize ahead of time and work toward giving clear instructions. With this being stated in the chapter I really would have to commend my professor for having everything lined out week to week in advanced for her students. It helps the class flow.

The final two things that I found crucial to an ELearning class is to develop and evaluate effective technology of activates and creating appropriate assessments for technology activities.

ELearning can be as simple and as difficult as face to face classes but it has added elements of technology and a difference in how time is used. Activities are available both off and online. Books and portfolios can also benefit teachers and students. It is a little more organized and easier to keep up with.