Barry Westling

Hi Denise:
One way to get around the phenomenon of irrelevance that you are describing is to inorporate discussion into the class environment as much as possible. This can be done effectively even in an online format.

By doing this, we can look at what students are getting out of a topic and have the opportunity to make suggestions that may drive a point home more effectively.

Regards, Barry

Barry Westling

Hi Cathy:
Great idea! And to agree with your comments, there should be a basic set of guidelines new instructors can rely on. Especially if there is little or no specific orientation to the classroom environment.

Regards, Barry

Denise Pfalzer

I agree...unfortunately doing that in the format of an online course meant for all types of instructors to read is probably impossible.

A tutored, individual approach (if such a thing could be truely acceptable in a culture where one-size-fits-all methodologies are the norm) would truely have the ability to give what individuals are needing. Meanwhile we have to sit through something that is mostly a waste of time -- at least for the "learners".

...Just image an online course that wasn't a directed reading exercise, but a REAL course where the instructor based the material on specific student input at the beginning of class... it ought to be possible... but it certainly isn't how anybody is approaching things.

Barry Westling

Hi Sandra:
Passion and enthusisam demomstrate to students you care. Observing others' classes, entering into discussion forums (like this one), gaining alternative viewpoints, these all create wisdom and maturity. Together, the student becomes the recipient of a well rounded technical expert, willing and able to share and assist student's achieve their career ambitions.

Regards, Barry

Sandra Scott

I found it very helpful to sit in with a veteran instructor and in communicating with other colleagues. I was able to observe and grasp new methods to incorporate in class. I also attended a workshop for instructors in my field and had the opportunity to meet other instructors and share ideas, solve problems, etc. I do agree with you, Cathy, in that teaching starts from within one's true self. Having a passon for the topic/subject brings valuable meaning to the class.

Cathy Johnston

It is important for teachers to be taught how to teach. There are so many ways to be an effective instructor, but it all starts for teaching from your true self. My favorite book on teaching is "The Courage to Teach" by Parker Palmer. I strongly recommend it for all instructors.
Regards,
Cathy

Barry Westling

Hi Judi:
You know, I know so many teachers that claim to be be self taught - it's like teachers migrate into education more than other fields.

Some difficulty is identifying the gazillion kinds of need that instructors need. That's why the topics seem generic. But a good presenter can take a basic curriculum or generic topic and make it come alive and dynamic in a group setting.

I was at a conference in July, and at the end of the day (when folks were tired), I heard a presenter that was absoutely awesome, engage the audience (of professional educators and managers), with pointed, pertinent information, had us laughing (at the truth), and received the only standing ovation at his completion (the only one at a four day conference). That guy met my needs, yet the topic was very generic to all teachers. So, I know it can be done.

Regards, Barry

Stephanie Gordon

I agree with you.