Kristina Lattanzio’s Blog….

In developing my course information documents, I realize that there is much more to think about besides the format, how the course is set up-information about lectures, assignments, tests, aural training-my expectations and the the schedule.  This module’s readings have helped me think about the potential students in my course.  Their thoughts/concerns, limitations with technology they may have and questions they bring with them.  Scorza’s article has given me some important things to consider as I move in the direction of creating a class community.  The tone of the classroom, the way I present material and the atmosphere I create through my course development activities and my individual lessons and activities are all important to the success.  The discussions this week so far bring up many interesting thoughts, ideas and questions about online teaching and learning including which activities will provide the greatest learning experience, to creating the correct balance between on and offline activities, to how to create multimedia presentations into online learning.  I have browsed several examples of online courses and can see how successful courses are outlined, planned out and have gotten many examples of different types of activities to include.  In addition to adding material related to aural training skills in music theory, I also would like to develop some kind of online theory workbook where students can complete drill and practice assignments…….(4)

I have learned quite a bit over these first two weeks.  In completing my course profile, I am better able to what questions/concerns my students may have upon taking a course in music theory.  I liked how I was to answer each question as if I were talking directly to a student as it allows me to think more about student needs and my expectations of them.  The course information assignment has also provided insight as to what additional experiences I may need to develop an online course and what students may need to know about technology in order to take it.

I am on the lookout for some sites that offer music theory drill and practice exercises.  I’m thinking that perhaps this could be something I use as a supplement to my online course. 

This module’s discussions have been interesting and brought back some important ideas and theories regarding teaching and learning and psychology related to each.  I feel I was somewhat intimidated by the start of the discussion and spent too much time dwelling on what was expected that in some ways it kept me from participating at my fullest.  In regards to discussions, I can improve my own learning by posting more frequently and perhaps focusing on a specific issue related to the module’s activities, my subject area and specific concerns I may have. 

The computer skills self assessment revealed that I am pretty knowledgeable of most basic functions related to using a computer, internet, word processing tools, and email.  I need to “brush up on at least one skill” but there shouldn’t be any problems with that.  The manual has been a good tool to assist in what is needed to teach an online course and how to get started. (3)