Communications
Your teachers are not only subject matter experts in their chosen fields, but are generally very knowledgeable on the use of computers and our online learning environment. Think of your teachers as your first point of contact when you need help with your course materials or for any technical concerns. You should feel free to contact your teacher with any question and especially when you do not understand a concept in your readings or the instructions for an assignment or a test. If your teacher cannot answer a question, they will give you the information you need to contact the appropriate person(s) or department.
Your teacher is dedicated to answering your questions within 24-48 hours of the time you contact them.
If you are letting your teacher know about a problem in your course and/or leaving your teacher a message, be sure to provide the following information:
Calling
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Emailing
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Click each button below to learn about the multiple ways you have to communicate with your teacher and peers.
Using Google Hangouts Instant Messaging and Video Calls
One of the primary methods to contact your teacher is through the Google Hangouts Instant Messaging or through the Video Calls tools. You should check for messages every day you have class. You do not want to miss an important communication! You can leave messages to the teacher even when they are offline so that the messages can be retrieved once the teacher logs back in.
To learn how to access and use Google Hangouts Instant Messagaging Tools, follow the instructions below:
Google Hangouts Instant Messagaging Instructions
Click Google Hangouts Demo to watch a video tutorial.
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Emailing Your Teacher
You should use your DoDEA Google Mail to send and receive emails to your Virtual School teacher and classmates. Emails sent from Schoology will automatically be sent to your DoDEA Google email address.
Follow the steps below to login and access your email.
Schoology Messages
Schoology Messages can be accessed from the folded envelope icon in the top right navigation bar or from the Messages link from the Home screen in Schoology. Emails can be sent from this location. A red number next to the envelope indicates that new mail has been received. A copy of the message is also sent to your DoDEA Google Mail.
Calling Your Teacher
Locate the Teacher Introduction & Contact Information page and the Mentor Introduction & Contact Information page on the materials page as you enter your course. A digital time zone clock is provided at the bottom of the contact pages to help you determine when your teacher and/or mentor is available.
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Discussion Boards
Discussions allow you to think more critically about concepts that you are learning about. Additionally, through open discussion with your classmates you further solidify your understanding by seeing information presented in a different way.
Click each question below to learn more about Discussion Boards.
A discussion board is a tool which allows you, your classmates, and your teacher to conduct an online discussion. Your class can read all the messages, both old and new at any time.
Discussion board assignments are usually graded. You will “post” your reflections/answers to a question prompt or topic. In many discussion assignments, you will need to read and respond to other students' answers. This will give you an opportunity to reflect, but for others to reflect on your responses as well. You will learn a lot about yourself as well as your classmates.
A discussion is made up of the following:
* Forums - folders with messages on a particular subject,
* Threads - is a series of messages about the same topic
* Messages - is an individual contribution to a conversation (like a single e-mail).
In your course, click the Discussion Assignment link. Read the question/comment, and respond by typing in the text editor. Then select Post.
When you are ready, read your peer's responses and respond to those too.Just like in e-mail, there is etiquette to follow when posting to discussions. Follow these rules and your experience (and your classmates) will be a good one. To create a positive classroom environment, everyone must adhere to these rules in regard to discussions and discussion posts.
* Free of profanity, derogatory comments, or making inappropriate comments or bad language.
* No bullying! Be nice, positive and respectful – particularly when in response to a classmate’s post.
* Written in academic writing (proper spelling, grammar, punctuation, capitalization).
* It is ok to disagree, and often a great way to learn, but do not make personal attacks.
* Before you post, think about how you feel when reading the words you've just written if they were directed at you.
* Choose to learn about your peers. You can really get to know each other through discussions.
* Choose a descriptive subject line so that everyone will know your topic.
* Do not use IM language - avoid slang.
* Be willing to learn, share ideas, and change!
Synchronous Learning
Your teacher may meet with you using our web conferencing software Adobe Connect for a synchronous (same time) session. This tool lets you talk to your teachers as if you are in the same room! In fact, if your computer has a microphone and speakers, you can talk to your teacher or classmates just as you would on the telephone. You can use Adobe Connect at school or at home. If you have the opportunity to meet with your teacher and classmates in an Adobe Connect session, we encourage you to try it!
Click a picture or link below to choose the type of detailed instructions you would like to review.
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