Classroom Management Systems (CMS)

Classroom Management Systems (CMS) for online education in the simplest terms provide educators with a means to structure content. The intent is to create an interesting, online class with up-to-date technology that supports educational efforts. The virtual classroom is the meeting place for students and the instructor. Many new classroom management tools are available for online educators. Most schools, colleges, and universities offering online education have a course structure system in place. No matter what CMS is used, several key aspects of classroom set-up should be addressed:

• Instructions & Trouble-Shooting - Including instructions on how the course works and how to navigate the system helps students to identify expectations ease anxiety regarding use of online tools. Programs like Camtasia permit the instructor to create an audiovisual orientation to the course structure. Examples of how to use instructional tools like discussion threading can be demonstrated. In addition to course orientation, a line-list of trouble-shooting activities may help students through technical difficulties.
• Organization - Structure of the online course is important. Weekly organization of content helps students stay ontrack. A course schedule with dates and learning objectives is helpful. Learning activities and supplemental information regarding specific course content should be placed together in an online folder. Some instructors choose to make materials available to students week by week whereas others open the entire course and content.
• Appearance - Choose course colors that are not distracting to learning. Select font that is easy to read. Written directsion should be clear and simple. Avoid over-loading students with excessive text on a page. Pictures and clipart can serve to motivate students while introducing them to important ideas or concepts. The appearance should be motivating and engaging.
• Activities - Activities should be developed to support intended learning goals. Activities that require application of key concepts require higher-level thinking skills. Activites that encourage interaction with the content provides students with a broader understanding. A variety of activites should be used to create interest and keep students focused. Online games, quizzes, case studies, creation of video or voice presentations are fun and encourage creativity. Discussion threading, blogs, social network applications, and guided Internet research via webquests are beneficial activities.It is important for online students to interact with the instructor and with classmates. Activities should include individual and "small group" work.
• Support for Students - It is important for the course facilitator to be available. Preventing feelings of isolation in an online class is important. Posting contact information such as email, phone number, and creating an online office helps students feel connected. In addition, being present in the discussion and providing timely feedback on assignments offers students support and guidance. Technical support services should be visible and readily available for online students. Post the name of such services, email, and phone number for services and include hours of operation.