This course will provide you with a basic overview of designing and implementing asynchronous, self-directed online courses effectively. It will review the differences between synchronous and asynchronous online courses. Traditional components of face-to-face courses such as readings, written assignments, and discussions work well in the asynchronous online class environment, but what happens to laboratory assignments and applications? Can they fit into the online course model? Courses which need a lab component, especially the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) courses, may seem impossible to complete in the online environment. Practical examples of effective online lab situations will be provided in this module. This will assist in promoting student engagement and increasing the student’s learning potential.

Module 1: Synchronous versus Asynchronous e-Learning

• Describe the background of asynchronous and synchronous online learning.
• Explain key definitions pertaining to synchronous and asynchronous e-learning.
• Describe the impact of different types of online activities for asynchronous learning.
• Describe core elements of effective asynchronous online activities.
• Recognize the basic model of practice for asynchronous online learning.

Module 2: Shifts and Changes in the Education World

• List instructor, student, and academic barriers to laboratory experiment implementation.
• Explain modification and implementation strategies for implementing online laboratories.
• Describe strategies for learner engagement.
• List possible technology barriers in incorporating online laboratories.

Module 3: The Basics of Laboratory Design

• Describe the concept of reasonable observation.
• Describe pedagogical concerns pertaining to student learning.
• Explain time management tips for instructors utilizing online laboratory experiments.
• List 3-5 ways to address feedback issues and effective grading of online laboratory work.
• Explain ways to enhance student engagement.

Module 4: Fundamentals of Asynchronous Labs

• Identify the leading repository of virtual samples.
• Describe the usefulness of instructor collections.
• Explain the importance of reusable learning objects.
• Identify ways to effectively find and use lab kits.
• Describe effective techniques for utilizing pre-packaged manuals and experiments.