Luis Maya

RDG 323
My survey was meant to see how students were doing at this point in the
semester and what could be done to improve their situations. I asked nine questions to
my colleagues, with topics regarding areas of improvement, technological capabilities,
and comfort levels with online learning.

When asked about what the hardest part of virtual learning has been, almost half
of the responses were related to a lack of motivation. They simply aren’t engaged in their
classes anymore, resulting in teachers no longer having a point of entry to reach them
(Irvin, Meltzer, and Dukes, 2007). When asked what instructors could do to help them
improve, most people mentioned better communication. Not only does better
communication help create a human connection with students, it also provides more
insight into what it is you want them to accomplish, ensuring that nothing is left unsaid
on your part (Michigan Virtual, 2017).

Although my survey was directly related to online learning, I believe the lessons
learned can be applied to in-person learning as well. Engagement and communication
go hand in hand. If we want students to be engaged, we must provide them with
communication that is understandable and informative. Even giving students an
opportunity to provide feedback on the classroom would raise engagement and give
them the opportunity to communicate to us. There are many ways to create a
prosperous learning environment, we just have to work alongside our students to foster
such an environment.

Survey Link - https://forms.gle/79uvE9qXpDpVYBbn8

Irvin, J. L., Meltzer, J., & Dukes, M. S. (2007, June). Chapter 1. Student Motivation,
Engagement, and Achievement. ASCD. Retrieved from
http://www.ascd.org/publications/books/107034/chapters/Student-
Motivation,-Engagement,-and-Achievement.aspx.

Michigan Virtual. (2019). Teacher Guide to Online Learning. Michigan Virtual

University. Retrieved from https://mvlri.org/wp-
content/uploads/2017/08/Teachers-Guide.pdf.