Student orientation in the distance education classroom

Institutions offering distance education courses realize the value that well-trained and well-prepared faculty contribute to the success of their distance education programs. However, taking approximately a half-hour in the first session of any course to prepare the students for their distance education experience will also add to the success of the course. Such student preparation establishes reasonable student expectations, the theme of a learning community, the parameters of learner responsibility, and the "rules" of the classroom. Having someone other than the designated class instructor deliver this orientation allows the instructor to develop rapport with the students since all are hearing this information together. It also allows the instructor to reinforce what was covered in the orientation as students begin assuming their responsibilities. During this presentation the participants will brainstorm the various roles of responsible students in the distance education classroom, discuss the advantages of a student orientation program, and view the student orientation presentation currently in use at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.