Online learning Online identity

communication

online identity in classrooms forces people reevaluate concepts of classroom environments. invention of online classes, classrooms have changed , no longer have traditional face-to-face communications. these communications have been replaced computer screen. students no longer defined visual characteristics unless make them known. there pros , cons each side. in traditional classroom, students able visually connect teacher standing in same room. during class, if questions arise, clarification can provided immediately. students can create face-to-face connections other students, , these connections can extended beyond classroom. timid or socially awkward students, ability form , extend relationships through personal contact may hold little appeal. these students, appeal may reside in online courses, computer communications allow them greater degree of separation , anonymity.

with prevalence of remote internet communications, students not form preconceptions of classmates based on classmate s appearance or speech characteristics. rather, impressions formed based on information presented classmate. students more comfortable paradigm avoids discomfort of public speaking. students not feel comfortable stating ideas in class can take time sit down , think through wish say.

communication via written media may lead students take more time think through ideas since words in more permanent setting (online) conversations carried on during class (smith).

perception of professor

online learning situations cause shift in perception of professor. whereas anonymity may students achieve greater level of comfort, professors must maintain active identity students may interact. students should feel professor ready whenever may need it. although students , professors may not able meet in person, emails , correspondence between them should occur in timely manner. without students tend drop online classes since seems wandering through course without guide them.