On-line instructor information
The module on projecting authority mentions using video, audio, photo and/or text (in that order) information about the instructor to familiarize students with his (my) capabilities and background. Would you recommend creating an on-line presence (blog, forum, etc.) and directing students to that site?
Eugenia,
This is definitely a trend in business - to use the social sites as a business/professional tools. Mastery of the technique for optimizing its use with the online class is something that would be worth investigating. Thank you for your contribution to this forum.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Hi Shirley, Dr. Vaillancourt and Fellow Faculty,
I also believe that I wish to maintain professional boundaries with my students and would prefer not to engage in any facebook or social media engagement outside of the classroom. At the same time, it may be reasonable to consider that some social media may be created purely for professional purposes. Businesses create social media accounts for purely professional communication rather than mixing personal and professional contacts from my understanding. I'm not yet interested in engaging with students in this way, but it is something that I may consider in the future if there were different resources. For example, if a platform similar to Twitter were available where only students enrolled in my course were sent short announcements to the location of their choosing, it could be very useful.
Sincerely,
Eugenia
Shirley,
I agree very strongly that a professional boundary must be clearly established, while maintaining the human connection that can make the difference between success and failure for so many students. My personal/professional preference is to not mingle with students on Twitter and Facebook. That said, I have found some of my colleagues who have masterfully implemented these media as excellent instructional support tools. I think the 'range of appropriateness' can vary greatly among instructors, institutions and students. Excellent topic. Thank you for sharing.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
If this is a professional site and done well, I don't think it will hurt. However, my personal opinion is to stay away from inviting students into your own social media. What are your thoughts on twitter and facebook?
I do know of some professors at my school that welcome students to tweet with them.
I don't think that is a wise idea. It is always good to convey an air of professionalism by establishing credentials on a website however I don't think it's good to be "friends" with your students through online social networking mediums.
Dr. Shirley Chuo
De Monte,
I agree. Just be sure to evaluate the external resource in terms of your institutional policies prior to implemntation.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I actually thinks that's a pretty good idea and may do it in future courses.
De Monte`
Matthew,
That may be a good avenue depending on institutional policy toward external (outside of the school channels) comunication with online students. Good thought.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
