One of the planned learning activities from the blueprint activity is the collaborative work and how accessible it is for the students to be where they need to be. Much of the feedback given from the presentation topic “How to Design and Deliver an Effective Presentation” that we have come up with requires the learners to be available in and out of class at the same time, and typically within a close distance to each other to meet up. Offering the class both online and in-person is one way to give students the opportunity to attend how it works best for them. Some of the simplest ways to go around this is by meeting up on a virtual conferencing platform such as Zoom or Skype, as well as allowing students to work with those in the same time zone if that is an issue as well. There is also the option of giving students the opportunity to correct each other asynchronously by suggesting notes on a google doc or sending videos of the presentation to each other for peer review. Overcoming the resistance that time and space can bring more opportunities for learners.
Another thing that could make the course difficult is learner’s general comfort in public speaking, and anything that may affect that such as shyness and anxiety disorders. When discussing that topic of the learning activities, those teaching should be knowledgable and provide support for learners who are shy. They should also be informed about different anxiety disorders have a plan for those students who need help. There should be conversation between teacher and learner regarding what can be done so the learner can complete the course with minimal stress. With these supports in place, the entire class could feel the support from their teacher as well as they could feel like the trial periods are actually times when they can try things and find out what works and what doesn’t.
Taking into account both environmental barriers and barriers for student success are important in regards to learning design. When looking at the blueprint, anxiety issues and physical distance for group work should be taken into account while planning and delivering the lessons.
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