End of Part 2 - Comfort in the Online World

I can’t believe we’re at the end of part two of the second ONTL course. It moves fast and I’m trying to keep up. For all of my technology knowledge, I must run hard to stay on top of the constantly changing web tools. I also realize with time I'll probably rely more on students and online communities for introductions to “new and emerging” technologies. However, I believe soon education will just be education. No online VS f2f. It will become seamless instructional technology used by all, expected by students and mastered by educators. I dream of that day. Maybe by then I’ll be sitting with my laptop on a beach in the Seychelles languidly interacting with my students wherever they are.

Ahhh!!

Until then, I must continue to master Socratic questioning and the five roles of an online instructor. I now understand the importance of being a thoughtful “space planner.” Something I did not totally grasp before this course. Through being an online student I have become a more informed course designer, better understanding their needs. Since I now use the Course Management tools and have to navigate the CMS content, I can observe the design from both sides. A well planned course makes online life more successful for students. It promotes student online communication, interaction and community building. It keeps the course student-centered. This supports retention and learning. It all ties together. I get it!

Ultimately, learning to design in this new pedagogical arena is my objective. Whether I do a hybrid, or a totally online course, I must recognize it’s about the content not the technology. Sometimes this is difficult for a technology loving person like me who’s partial to the latest cool tool and online software. But as long as technology assists students’ in mastering course content, it should be incorporated. It keeps the content interactive and lively and as a student I appreciate this.

I now recognize as the instructor you wear many hats. You are the “Pacesetter,” “the Host,” and “the Connector,” but my personal favorite role is the “Mirror.” I enjoy facilitation much more than I thought. I enjoy providing feedback (in a timely fashion) to students, encouraging, challenging and directing them to alternate points of views. The training I’m receiving by facilitating discussions, forums, and group projects is requiring me to become more adept at this crucial responsibility. I understand the time constraints and accepted facilitation short cuts. I now review posts and interact in several short sessions without wearing myself out with a marathon. I’m less intimidated by the constant posting and group projects. I feel a new sense of comfort with the online world.

Also, to be an excellent facilitator you must comprehend how to reach students with diverse lives and learning styles. Did I say diverse? The importance of diversity, both social and cultural, informs your teaching approach. It helps you reach each person where they are and utilize technology, new and emerging, in ways that are beneficial to student outcomes. Remember, you’re the guide who empowers students to take control of their learning. This is the real lesson.