Students' readiness

When we communicate with another person, we automatically include our facial expression and gestures. We also vary the tone of our voice. The combination of those aspects with the words we use, makes it easy for the other person to understand what we're saying and what the meaning is. More important, the person knows how we actually think about a topic due to the "complete presentation" of the information.

Now, communicating digitally gives us new challenges. It is no problem to text with friends or relatives. Those people know you and they can interpret the meaning of your messages. This becomes a lot easier when adding emojis. Just to make sure that other people really understand your point.

It's quite a different thing in an online course. Yes, you can use emojis here as well. But nonetheless, the other participants or the teacher most likely won't know you. Hence, every word that you write can lead to a misunderstanding.

To avoid such misunderstandings, we recommend that you stick to the following general criteria:

• Communicate clearly and on point. Don't try to be too wordy or sophisticated. Use the suitable vocabulary that will bring your message across. And stick to short sentences.
  
• Avoid irony or sarcasm. Not every reader will understand it.

When participating in an online course like this, it's recommendable to read the syllabus. Usually, there you'll find writing regulations (formats).

In every online course will most likely be asked to give feedback in some way. Maybe you have to comment on the performance of another learner or you have to give feedback to your teacher after you're done with a unit. Either way, giving feedback is based on specific rules:

• Use neutral or positive words. Don't use negative or harsh words.
  
• Be on point with your feedback. Don't get lost in lengthy explanations.
  
• Give an understandable reason for your opinion.
  
• If possible, offer alternatives.
  
• It's recommendable to use the "sandwich method" (positive-negative-positive).
  
• Your feedback is your opinion, hence use the "I"-form.

And in case you receive feedback, those aspects should be followed:

• Listen to the person who gives you a feedback until that person is done.
  
• Don't comment on the feedback.
  
• Never take feedback personally. Keep in mind that feedback is always only focussing on specific topics.
  
• Take feedback seriously and consider it. Don't disregard it as a friendly advice.
  

Here an example how not to do it: