Engaging the Online Learner: Activities and Resources for Creative Instruction, Updated Edition

Preface vii

Overview of the Contents ix

Updates ix

Acknowledgments x

An Invitation x

The Authors xi

1 Learning in an Online Environment 1

Engaged Learning in the Online Environment 4

Guiding Learners to Engage Online 7

Appropriate Activities for Each Phase 11

Summary 11

PART ONE Constructing Activities to Engage Online Learners 15

2 Designing Online Engagement 17

Adapting Classroom-Based Activities 18

Meeting the Needs of Online Learners 20

Choosing an Effective Communication Tool 21

Summary 26

3 Measuring Online Engaged Learning 27

Analyzing the Quality of Critical Thinking 28

Discussion Analysis Tools 29

Rubrics 29

Team Assessments 30

Reflective Self-Assessments 34

Summary 37

4 Learning to Use Online Tools 38

Building Students’ Skills in Using the Necessary Tools 38

PART TWO Activities to Engage Online Learners 49

5 Online Icebreakers 51

Characteristics of an Effective Icebreaker 52

6 Peer Partnership and Team Activities 67

Moving Dyads to Teams 68

7 Reflective Activities 81

Characteristics of an Effective Reflective Activity 82

8 Authentic Activities 92

Characteristics of an Effective Authentic Activity 93

9 Games and Simulations 101

Characteristics of an Effective Game or Simulation 102

10 Learner-Led Activities 114

Activities Led by Individuals Versus Teams 114

Conveying Outcomes 115

Choosing the Type of Activity 115

Adequate Orientation and Planning Time 115

What Do Learners Think About Learner-Led Activities? 117

Examples of Learner-Led Activities 118

References 129

Index 132