Online classes can be undertaking for those who have never studied in this format and especially those who are not completely proficient on a computer. Often, older adult students are the ones who need online courses due to hectic schedules at work and with their families, but they are also the ones who may not be familiar with various online classroom terms used on top of having to relearn subject that they haven’t studied in years. This article will review terms used in distance education.
Computer Specifications
Certain computer specifications are required for online courses. It depends on the college and the program, but these can often be found on the college’s web site. Specifications are found differently on different computers, but one can often find these by using the “start” menu at the bottom left of the screen.
Once the programs are listed, the user will need to select “control panel.” From the control panel, select “system” or “system and maintenance.” This will either bring up the system specifications or another list in which “system” will need to be selected. This should list all specifications including memory, processor, system, and system type. This can be used after viewing specifications required for a college’s distance learning program then compared with the computer that will be used for this program.
For example, if a program requires a minimum of 1 gig of memory but a recommended 2 gigs of memory and the computer that will be used has 2 GB (gigs), one will know that their computer has the right memory specifications for the course. Using the right computer specifications will ensure the student that they are not wasting their time signing up for an online course when their computer will not adequately support the course.
Discussion Board
Discussion boards are used to discuss classroom material. Teachers will often post topics or questions and all students have to respond. Sometimes students are even required to respond to each other. Every school and classroom operates discussion boards differently, but online students need to pay close attention to what is expected and fulfilling those requirements. Discussion board postings may even count as some sort of participation grade which could be an easy grade and help offset bad test scores or other poor grades on assignments.
When writing on a discussion board in an online classroom it is important to remember etiquette and grammar. Etiquette is important because not only do other students see what is posted, but so does the teacher. The teacher may be inclined to grade a bit harsher if a student is rude or demeaning. Although this is not ethical, it may happen. Another bad etiquette scenario is that a demeaning student could end up in a group project with students in which they have been rude to before and it will cause friction within the group.
Grammar is important on discussion boards as well. Students often let their guard down and use online chat tactics on discussion boards. It is still an academic classroom, though, with the teacher reading everything that is written. Using bad grammar and teenage style chat methods will not impress the teacher and will make one seem unfit for an academic environment. Taking discussion boards seriously will make online classes a better learning experience
Syllabus
As do regular in-person classrooms, online classrooms usually have a syllabus. The syllabus is a sheet or sheets of information regarding classroom expectations, the teacher’s contact information, class assignment information, needed textbooks, class schedule, and exam dates. As one would assume, the syllabus is an important tool in any classroom. An online student can use the syllabus in conjunction with their planner to map out important dates. The syllabus should be printed out and kept in the corresponding class’s binder, notebook, or folder. This will ensure that the student will be able to stay current with their work even if their internet is down or they are traveling.
Asynchronous versus Synchronous
An asynchronous classroom is a classroom in which students and the teacher communicate at different times with delay through discussion boards and e-mails. A synchronous classroom is a classroom in which discussion between students and the teacher occurs with no delay such as in a chat room. It is important to understand the type of online class is being taken so the student will know if there are specific times they have to log on or if it is completely flexible.
Chat Room
The chat room is used for instant communication. Almost as soon as someone sends information after it’s been typed, the recipient can see the information. Chat rooms are sometimes used in online classes for students to chat about problems they may be having with particular assignments. Chat rooms may also be used for a teacher to teach all of the students at once.
The terms used in an online classroom may be different than what a student has ever before heard. By keeping confident and asking questions, students can succeed in this learning environment. Read this glossary for more computer words that may be seen in the online classroom world.
Source:
Frequently used terms. Retrieved February 24, 2011, from McHenry County College web site.
Brittany Sharp - Brittany Sharp has both educational experience and life experience that she uses to write articles. She has a bachelor's degree in Social ...
Join the Conversation