Conquering the Content: Chapter 1 insights

Several things "popped" out to me in this week's readings.

1. Mayer's Personalization Theory (pg xviii in the introduction) suggested that our uploading videos helps the learner feel a sense of "connection" with the instructor.  My experience agrees.  The classes where I saw my professors (even if only on screen) seemed more genuine and gave me a more positive approach...as long as their videos weren't too long. :)

2.  The idea that it is "easier" to teach online is a myth.  I think that the online curriculum might actually force us to be more prepared.  I find that it is easier for me to just create a rough outline of objectives and get up in a live environment and "talk"...eventually getting to the point.  It is more uncomfortable for me to have to map it out and provide an online plan, but likely more effective and efficient for the learner.

3.  I liked the idea of "competency" based curriculum designed to go a the learner's pace within a given set of timed boundaries.

4.  I was relieved of the pressure to have to be slick and fancy.  Trust is earned in the excellence of the organization of content (i.e. ease of use) and not in the bells and whistles. (see 2 minute test pg. 14).  "Pathway for progress through the course must be abundantly clear to them." (pg. 17).

5.  Finally, I am glad they talked about building the course with updates/changes in mind.  I had not thought of that, but it might include things like putting due dates in places that are easily changed and not in titles etc.