TA eLearning Series

Grading online has the same challenges and principles as grading in a traditional learning environment; we want to be fair and time efficient. In this asynchronous module you will learn some tips that are more specific to grading in the online learning environment, with special focus on OWL, Western's Learning Management System.

Facilitating discussions is a common task for a TA, and one that requires some extra planning and consideration in the online format. Covering topics such as participation rubrics, community agreements, teaching presence, and learning tools to assist with discussion activities, this learning module uses instructional videos, reflective questions, and case study scenarios to help you identify best practices and potential strategies for facilitating productive participation in both synchronous and asynchronous online environments.

Learning about how to use technology to engage your students is valuable and vital in the online environment. But as a TA, how do you reveal the human behind the screen? Take this learning module to discover how you can build community online through the way you design formal and informal opportunities for your students to interact with you and with each other. Design strategies to help your students recognize you and each other as human learners, each with unique perspectives and personalities, and all responsible for contributing to a positive online learning environment.

Online learning can be a more accessible option for many of our students, but only if due thought and planning is put in place. This module explores the TAs role in creating an accessible online learning environment and provides strategies for designing lessons and course material that takes learner variability into account.