The key to educational success in online OM education lies in the integration of active learning strategies, writes Faculty Focus (Aug. 9, 2023). Consider the following recommendations to better engage students in online or hybrid learning environments:
Collaborative tools such as virtual whiteboards and group projects. Whiteboards enable students to brainstorm ideas and collaborate to solve problems, draw diagrams, and illustrate operations processes. Group projects serve as powerful vehicles for promoting collaboration and teamwork skills. Groups allow them to engage in shared decision-making, divide tasks, and collaborate on a common OM project.
Interactive activities. We have many interactive activities in our text that can help keep students engaged and motivated in online learning. Take our five MyLab simulations (details how to use them in this 9 minute video): inventory (Ch. 12), quality (Ch. 6), project management (Ch. 3), forecasting (Ch. 4), and supply chains (Ch. 11). Students can manipulate variables, observe outcomes, and analyze data, all within a controlled digital environment. Simulations are particularly beneficial for OM decisions, allowing students to gain hands-on experience and develop critical thinking skills.
Quizzing tools are effective in reinforcing key concepts and assessing student understanding. You can create online quizzes with multiple-choice, true/false, or fill-in-the-blank questions using platforms such as Kahoot!, Quizizz, or Google Forms. These tools often offer features like timed quizzes, leaderboards, and instant feedback, creating a gamified experience that motivates students to actively participate and strive for improvement.
Feedback mechanisms play a crucial role in the learning process. Our MyLab homework system provides instant feedback on whether a student’s answer is correct or incorrect, along with an explanation or hints to guide their understanding.
Opportunities for reflection. Reflection is an important part of active learning, as it allows students to think critically about what they’ve learned and how they can apply it. Writing assignments provide a platform for students to express their ideas and insights. For instance, after completing an OM in the News reading or watching a lecture, students can be assigned reflective essays where they critically analyze the content, connect it to real-world examples, and express their own perspectives.
Multimedia content. Our 50+ company video case studies can be used to engage students and help them visualize real-world concepts. These videos not only make the content more relatable and engaging but also enable students to observe that which cannot be shown in a classroom setting.
By using these tools, we think you can create a dynamic and engaging online learning environment for your students.