7 Supporting Online Learners from Diverse Backgrounds

Strategies for Supporting Learners with Time Zone Differences

Faculty who teach online classes will likely have students from different time zones. Time zone differences can present unique challenges for online learners. In synchronous online classes, these challenges can be more difficult than in asynchronous online classes. However, time zone differences affect all online learners. To support learners from varying time zones, faculty should include the time zone with the assignment due date and time. Faculty could also provide learners with a “grace” period for assignment submissions. For example, say an assignment is due on Sunday, October 20th at 11:59PM EST, faculty could provide a one day “grace” period without penalty. This would not only provide learner flexibility, but also account for varying time zones which could confuse students. Faculty should also be mindful of their office hour times. Staggering office hours at various times throughout the week and day will ensure accommodation of different time zones. Lastly, faculty should ensure they are communicating assignment due dates and times with time zone regularly throughout the course. By utilizing some of these strategies to support learners in different time zone, faculty are reducing a barrier students may have, allowing them to focus more on the course content and stay motivated in the course.

Addressing Access Issues

The utilization of and access to technology is a vital component of online classes. Without technology literacy or access learners will likely struggle to be successful in the course. Additionally, learners who are taking online classes in the U.S. while in their home country may face additional challenges, such as restrictions on course materials. Faculty can help support students with access issues by ensuring that most of the materials can be easily downloaded for offline access. This can allow students without a stable internet connection to download the materials and read them offline. Additionally, if faculty are using external technology platforms, it is important that they provide, clear step-by-step instructions on how to access these resources and provide help resources for students who might need assistance. For learners who cannot access certain materials due to restrictions by their country, faculty can provide students with alternative resources that meet the learning outcomes of the course.

Ensuring Equitable Learning Opportunities Through Resources

Ensuring equitable learning opportunities in online classes is not always easy and does not always have to rely solely on the faculty member. Each university is different, but many offer a wide range of student support services designed to meet the needs of online learners. Faculty who teach online should become familiar with the resources available for students. This allows faculty to build additional support for the students outside of the classroom. Some important student support services that faculty should be familiar with and share with their students include:

1. 1. Tutoring assistance
   2. Mental health services
   3. Accommodation and accessibility services
   4. International services
   5. IT services

Throughout their online classes, faculty should proactively share these resources, especially in the first few weeks when students are likely to face challenges. Additionally, ensure that links and contact information or these resources are available within your online class and easily accessible.