Only Four?
I think there are so many more than four - for example, see The Ten Crucial Roles of the Online Instructor http://mindgatemedia.com/2011/03/14/the-ten-crucial-roles-of-the-online-instructor/
Amos,
If you think of how you do a variety of f2f courses you have different types of presentations. I think we sometimes get "hung up" on the idea of online being so different; it may not be.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Natalie,
You have mentioned items that keep the role of facilitator challenging, as there are so many levels and types of learners and even if you have seen the various types, there are often so many presentations of the different types. Makes for a very interesting set of courses---
Judy,
Me too! Why do you think that people assume that doesn't happen in an online course.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
I agree with you, Patty. I like time to get to know my virtual students and understand that they are real people with real problems and real joys as well as any F2F student!
Natalie,
Yes, you have your hands full. It is so important to give them small successes early so they can become confident in the learning.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
The majority of the demographic is student I teach are adult learners who may have never had the opportunity to attend post secondary school before, and many are terrified of failure. That feeling manifests in different ways with different students; some choose to make excuses, some are too scared to ask questions, some try really hard and need recognition for all the small successes. We definitely wear many hats in this role.
Patty,
I agree! I am a Math Instructor and spend a whole lot of time grading assignments and providing feedback to the students how to improve their score. I am still learning how to balance this role with the role of facilitator. This article will definitely help!
Patty,
What a great post. Yes we do focus on the monitor and forget we can enjoy the teaching!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Angela,
So, everyone should have virtual pom-poms! :) Great post!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
I really enjoyed this article as well. Sometimes I find myself so focused on monitoring discussions and grading that I forget that my primary role should be of facilitator, cheerleader, and content expert. I think I will print this out and keep it near my work space!
I am in full agreement with you. The article you referenced was great and better described the roles we really assume. The authority figure and cheerleader are both roles that must be used regularly. Some students will try to bend the rules and expect exceptions time and time again. Others need the motivation an instructor can provide. Recognition after small successes can keep a student in school.
Jaclyn,
I agree! Thank you. I am glad you shared this with all.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
