Asynchronous discussions, for example, are one of these tools. Durrington, Berryhill, and Swafford (2006) recommended base on literature support that guidelines for minimum contribution need to be establish clearly, detailed and clear explanation of the characteristics of quality posting must be presents, and instructors must challenge students individually with questions that are related to their post.
In terms instructor the role is change. Instructors cannot be traditional transmitters of knowledge. We need to change. This change is not an easy one. We developed under traditional classrooms, where the “A” was for the professor, the “B” for the book and the “C” for the student. Using Peter Senge concept I would say that we have to change our ‘mental models’ about instructors. Siemens (2008) described new roles. For Siemens we have to become master artists, curators, concierge and network administrators in order to engage more effectible our students.
I agree with these new roles. I am confident that with new generation our instructor role will be more accepted and these tools would need modification. Engaging students effectible in online environments is a continual evolving experience.
References:
Durrington, V. A., Berryhill, A., & Swafford, J. (2006). Strategies for enhancing student interactivity in an online environment. College Teaching, 54(1), 190-193.<
Siemens, G. (2008). Learning and knowing in networks: Changing roles for educators and designers. ITForum.
Larissa,
ReplyDeleteI do agree we must be willing to change. If we did not change, we would be stuck in the same place/level in our life and would not grow. Also, there are so many of us who forget what the real focus should be which is learning and not how we learn. I think engaging students in an online learning environment requires creativity. I would not say that it is harder than traditional face-to-face, but I will say that it requires thinking outside of the box.
Emmorfia
In my tech ed grad program here at Walden, we learned that teachers need to facilitate learning instead of being the dispensers of learning. This role changed because the teacher is no longer the only person with the answer key, students can get them now also thanks to the internet. Technology should not be banned but be used as a tool for learning. It is reality of today. I agree with you. Nice post.
ReplyDeleteBethany
Online learning seems to be more difficult than face-to-face learning because many people are not open to the new classroom environment. Ultimately, the instructors should be acting as change agents that facilitate learning in both settings. However, the learning tools used may be different but the goal should be the same. Student interactions are definitely rated high in regard to stimulating discussions that are supported by critical thinking and developed solutions. If more educators become more comfortable with the idea of guiding learning by intervening less so that students can discover and explore concepts, then online (and traditional) learning will be more beneficial overtime.
ReplyDelete