Difference between a facilitator and an instructor
The role of a facilitator is to provide a learning environment where the facilitator and students learn from one another by sharing their knowledge through collaborative work. The facilitative approach consists of interactive learning whereas the direct instruction is mainly a one-way transfer of knowledge. Unlike an instructor, a facilitator does not dominate discussions, but serves as a guide, a resource, and a participant in mutual learning process. A facilitator is willing to learn from students as well. Unlike an instructor, a facilitator does not insist on having the final word on a issue, but remains open-minded, flexible and willing to acknowledge his/her limitations. A facilitator in an online classroom also makes sure that the class discussion is conducted in a professional manner, free of prejudice and improper behavior of participants.
I love this idea. I am going to give it try next week!
thanks,
Aimee
Hi Gregrey,
One way is to use guided notes. Give the students a handout of what is going to be covered in the class. The major points can be listed and then space provided underneath them for the students to write down their own notes. This way if the discussion gets to far from the topic you can refer to the outline and tell the class "that as good as the discussion is we have to get back to item number 2 so we can cover all the material." This way they know what has to be covered and you are not being a bad guy by bringing the discussion to close and moving on you are just following the outline.
Gary
As a new instructor this is good information. It lets me know that I do not want to just present the information I need to get an active class. Which in turn will keep the students engaged in the information better. Does anyone have any tipes on how to keep the students on track with the topic and not get "side tracked"?
Well said, I love to use the guided discussion approach in my physical classroom as well. I give this same advice to new instructors.
I couldn't agree more, Jong. When an instructor acts as a facilitator, the learning experience becomes more personal and profound for the student. No one likes to be talked "at". In this way, students and teachers open their minds to multiple possibilities and points of view.
Hi Jong,
Good information about how an educator should conduct and manage an online course. The facilitation aspect of teaching is so important in the online setting. This way you can "pull" out contributions from the students for the mutual good of everyone.
Gary
