Experimental evidence supports the benefits to designing assessments that mirror real-life encounters. These kinds of assessments lead to greater student motivation, increased sense of autonomy, and preparation for future job settings.

Wake Forest University

- Mitigating Accountability Concerns in Online Learning
- Orientation to Online Learning: Applying the Link between SRL Strategy Use and Number of Online Courses Taken
- Assessment Design: Promoting Increased SRL
- Incorporating the Relationship Between Help-Seeking and Neuroticism

Practical Applications from Relationships Between  SRL Use, Personality Traits, and Number of Online Classes Taken

Bruso, J., Stefaniak, J., & Bol, L. (2020). An examination of personality traits as a predictor of the use of self-regulated learning strategies and considerations for online instruction. Educational Technology Research and Development, 68(5), 2659–2683. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11423-020-09797-y

An Examination of Personality Traits as a Predictor of the Use of Self-regulated Learning Strategies and Considerations for Online Instruction

Since online learning does not capture the sense of accountability many students feel in the physical classroom, it is essential to employ strategies to address this. Greater student choice in learning materials/activities, clear roles/assignments in group project settings, student-led discussion forums, peer review in class assignments are all possible ways of giving students more opportunities to engage with their education. 

Mitigating Accountability Concerns in Online Learning

Assessment Design: Promoting Increased SRL

The number of online classes taken found to help mitigate the effects of one's personality trait on their use of SRL strategies (For example, those higher in neuroticism deployed a greater number of SRL strategies when they had taken a greater number of online classes). The familiarity with online learning also plays a role in SRL strategy use, so an orientation would  provide students with the opportunity to become accustomed to online learning before their class starts. These orientations should include education of SRL strategies and allow students to practice such skills.

Orientation to Online Learning: Applying the Link between SRL Strategy Use and Number of Online Courses Taken 

Due to the relationship between neuroticism and help-seeking behaviors, educational courses should provide readily available opportunities for students to seek help. Practical applications include creating a forum for frequently asked questions and offering optional weekly synchronous sessions. To effectively encourage help-seeking behaviors, educators must consider common obstacles such as embarrassment, the desire for autonomy, threats to perceived ability, and the structure of the learning environment.

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