Why?
The flexible advantage of online classes can also be a disadvantage. Many students overlook doing their homework or turning in assignments without the structure of an in-person class. Our studies have shown that when students are sent regular reminders, such as "nudges" to play their study time, they get better grades, and that at-risk students benefit the most. See our research papers on study skills and self-regulated learning.
How?
- Use the structure of learning activities to encourage spacing: things like a weekly reading or video quiz encourage students to stay up with the learning activities
- Break assignments into pieces, with a low stakes draft due before the final paper or project, multiple smaller assignments
- Instructors can send nudges using the LMS to selectively email students based on grade, whether assignment was turned in, etc. with actionable suggestions
- Give weekly reminders to schedule study times
- Provide clear instructions and rubric in advance of learning activities, explain the components that students will be graded on, and give them models of successful work product
Resources
- Embedded tools in the LMS let you select only certain types of students to receive custom messages
- Look at the resources on our Clear Course Materials tab, by organizing your course (and syllabus) in digestible and predictable ways students are able to plan their studying more effectively