It is occasionally thought of that our students are digital natives who will embrace any new technology and intuitively know how to use it. While this is often the case, most students do need an orientation to online and blended learning. This article provides some best practices for introducing students to Imagine Edgenuity.
Welcome letter
One best practice for quality online instruction is for teachers to introduce themselves early and clearly so students know who is supporting them, how to communicate, and how to begin the course. This customizable welcome message can be personalized by the assigned teacher and posted within the course site. It includes space for the instructor’s name, role, teaching background, support approach, communication options, and a welcoming message to students.
Make the welcome letter available to students by:
- Posting it in the discussion board.
- Emailing it to students at the beginning of the course to reinforce course expectations, communication, and available support.
- If the course is an EdgeEX course, adding it to the Communication section of the syllabus.
Introducing Students to Edgenuity guide
This guide is designed to provide a framework an educator can use to:
- Introduce your students to Imagine Learning.
- Communicate routines and classroom policies.
- Teach some strategies for how to be an effective online learner.