Becoming Digital (Part 3)

Learning itself is a sequence of events that begin with being exposed to basic concepts. We build on those concepts using a framework that assists the learner in internalizing those concepts so that they can apply them while problem solving. For me there is the logical place to begin when using an LMS effectively. The initial focus should be on placing our content online. This can't be done without forethought, because our digital learner needs us, the content matter expert, to organize, label, and describe the content [files and links] for them. 

We can't stop there; we need to "clearly" explain the relevance of each piece of content added to a course. This is where the power of using a learning management system, first surfaces. For example, does your course menu make it clear to them where you placed content? Is that label, a generic word, e.g., "content", of have you taken a few minutes to create a label that mirrors the language of the syllabus; e.g., Units, Modules, Labs, Lectures, Topics, Weeks, etc.? In the 30-seconds it takes to create a menu item that is relevant to the learner, you can lessen and perhaps eliminate frustration and confusion for the learner. Recall it is our role to "guide" the learner as they progress from novice to expert in a particular discipline.