While I have been using Moodle, I have enjoyed exploring some of its capacities that I didn't know existed. In particular, it was helpful to learn how to add students, create a gradebook, and use activities like forums and voice thread in a course. In thinking about both the time it takes to set up everything and also what we talked about earlier regarding online instruction requiring time up-front from the instructor, I wonder how this might be taken into account so we can better support faculty who are doing this. I'm just thinking that if a faculty member is teaching four F2F classes in the fall, but then has to create an online course in the spring that, in December they are essentially teaching 5+ classes.
I also know that as a relatively new faculty member, this training on Moodle would have been really helpful in July or August. I have made a lot of mistakes with the course I am currently teaching in how I use Moodle, and definitely haven't used it as effectively as I might have. How do we make sure that there is appropriate support for all faculty, staff, and adjuncts as they incorporate online learning into their classes . . . whether they are online only, blended, or F2F with a heavy use of Moodle?
You make a good point about having some Moodle training in July or August, and I think that's why we have offered OL 101 during the summer. You just happen to be in an unusual session of OL 101, which is not normally offered during the fall semester for just the reason that you bring up. It really does help to actually have time to implement things you learn into actual courses.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you on so many points. I too have used Moodle but now realized how I may be a more effective user.
ReplyDeleteIt's good of you to transfer what you are learning to the course that you are teaching F2F with a Moodle component. It's hard to know what support that faculty need and would appreciate. And it's difficult to provide it in Just-in-time learning when it applies to them. I think FT faculty at Trinity have the support of people like James in IT, and typically we include Moodle training in new adjunct orientation. The goodness and the challenge is that there's always more to learn and do. I agree that having to try some new items was good for me, too.
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