Planning and creating a class can be quite the challenge and more so for an online class, because at this point I do not have much experience with online teaching and all its available and useful tools.  The importance to be precise and clear in writing course objectives, outlines, and other expectations is a principal key for the course.  I really enjoyed Pilar Video where she gives a virtual tour of the course (possibly Blackboard) online platform.  The organization of the course definitely gave me a sense of direction.  As noted in our textbook: “From the point of view of the instructor […] writing learning objectives keeps you focused on what is to be taught, what is to be learned, and helps you in planning. […]  From the point of view of the students, it lets them know what is expected of them and why in the world they are being asked to do X and Y” (Ko & Rossen, 2010).

Another point I enjoyed reading about was on the multiple tools that can be taken advantage of in an online course.  As a language instructor I am constantly looking for realia and other tools to engage students in “real-life language situations”.  Online teaching, in the past, could have  pose an obstacle for student interaction.  However, this is no longer the case with all that is available.  Knowing how to use these tools purposefully can enrich our courses.  I am very intrigued and eager to learn how to integrate video/images/audio in different class assignments and/or activities.  An interesting tool, mentioned by Gretchen Jones is Wimba and its multiple tools.  This tool, as noted by Jones, can integrate cultural aspects with discussions, images and audio.  Online tools sets a platform for opportunities and exploration.