Some may have experiences that will add to the learning opportunities of others. Many students who take online courses are working adults and have life experiences and be experts that can enhance the course. Communication and Collaboration Instructors need to create opportunities for students to communicate and collaborate. Keep in mind that most communication on the Web is done by the written word. The weakness of online learning is most communication is through writing.
Strength is the use of reading and writing skills.
This can be a benefit for those students who are shy or who have to gather their thoughts before speaking. It can also be a determent to those students who have poor writing skills. A first activity for an online course could be a requirement that students interact with the instructor and other students via WebCT Bulletin and Student Homepages. The assignment could be to introduce themselves and provide a short description of themselves, why they are taking the course, and what they may have to offer in the work of the course. Have students keep a journal of their thoughts and ideas regarding the course content, as well as their individual progress, and other concerns.