SNDLC would like to thank Peggy for taking time to share her thoughts about and insights to teaching over the Distance Learning system!

"This is my first year teaching over the distance learning (DL) network. I teach dual-credit courses for Peru State College. During the first semester, I taught English Composition 101; during second semester, I am teaching Appreciation of Literature."

Probably the two practices I learned most quickly and applied most often are: the most are

• KISS -Keep It Simple Silly-
• Plan, Plan, Plan!

The more complicated the lesson the more problems can develop. And I’ve also found that some of the activities I use in the regular classroom aren’t adaptable because of the concrete items needed in the exercise.

Planning is also essential. I’m usually planning the same morning of the class, but that’s because I continue to think about what worked before and what I can do to change activities. Don't forget a back-up plan, in case something goes wrong!

I’d never used PowerPoint before in my classroom presentations, but it works really well for presenting information in a Distance Learning environment.

Powerpoints go together quickly. Normally, I don’t use lots of graphics, but that’s always an option.

I’ve also used the document camera a great deal; my students and I have both shown pictures on it.

The thing to remember about using both PowerPoint and the document camera is to use large print and a limited number of lines.

I try to find out what activities the students are interested and involved in, and I ask about the results of contests and games. I also encourage communication via e-mail with me.

I’m fortunate that I am close enough to my other schools that I can visit them about once a month. My students have gone with me twice, so we have been able to have some large-group activities.

The schools involved also share some activities such as music clinics and conference ties, and I try to attend athletic contests between the two teams.

I had a Blackboard account through ESU #4 and it has since been changed to an e-Learning account.

I am not using it at the present time, but plan to incorporate it by the end of the second semester. It would have really been beneficial first semester when I was teaching Composition. Paper transfers would have been simplified.

There are some challenges involved in teaching over the Distance Learning system.

Keeping everyone focused and involved is a major challenge. It’s very easy to get off task when the teacher isn’t in the room with the students.

I still haven’t conquered peer editing groups with mixed group from all schools. I’ve been told by experienced DL teachers it would be possible, but I haven’t solved the problem yet.

Having a good discussion can also be difficult; students tend to talk to the students in their classroom, not across the network.

Sometimes I don't get everything accomplished that I had hoped to. DL takes lots of time, and in many ways it’s like being a first-year teacher again since your teaching style must change in some ways to adapt to the camera.

Getting assignments from one site to another can also be a challenge, but that’s where organization comes in.

Although there have been challenges to face this year, it's been worth it.

DL gives students the opportunity to take classes that might not be available in their district. The students I am teaching are taking advantage of the college credit option. Most DL students are motivated; they are well-behaved and have good study skills.

I’ve been fortunate to have administrators in my DL schools that are very easy to work with and are as supportive as they can be with helping to transfer assignments, and making me a part of their information network. I receive the district newsletter and the weekly schedules so I know what’s going on. I always get a cheery hello when I’m in the building and the teachers are pleasant to be around.

My administrator has also allowed me some flexibility so I can visit the other schools and even take students when needed.

It’s been exhausting, but well worth the work.