The course began with an overview of concepts discussed in the first class for this certificate program. We submitted a initial blog. Technical difficulties prevented us from submitting an audio blog in Blackboard collaborate. The concept of facilitation was explained and we found out that in this course unlike the last course, we would be facilitating. Facilitation includes keeping up with discussion posts and responding when necessary as well as facilitating a synchronous session using Blackboard collaborate. It is a dual role because the facilitator must also complete the course work as a student.
The discussion for Lesson 1 asked: When you consider teaching online
vs. teaching in traditional, face-to-face classes, what do you see as
the similarities and differences? Based on the readings for this unit
and your experience from the first Certificate course, what, if any,
differences do you think exist in the competencies/skills required for
online teaching vs face-to-face?
My answer: One important difference between
the two methods is the limited ability to recognize tone when
corresponding via the internet. In person, you have the assistance of
facial expressions, volume, body language, etc. Online instruction
forces you to sharpen your senses when communicating with students. In
face to face instruction, an instructor can see if a student isn't
feeling well or doesn't seem like themselves. This can be achieved
online once the instructor has gotten to know the communication styles
of each student in their class.
Another difference is the use
of asynchronous instruction in online teaching. Students are given a
deadline to respond to discussions or submit assignments. Everyone does
not have to be in the same location at the same time to benefit from
the class. Interactions are delayed. Instructors have to be constantly
available to meet the needs of students throughout the week.
The second learning module of the course went deeper into facilitation practices and expectations. I enjoyed the article Speaking in Voices: Effective Techniques for Keeping Web Discussions Running Smoothly. The article gave great insight into how facilitators can enhance the quality of online discussions. This week also emphasized the importance of creating a thriving online learning community.
In the third learning module, we discussed the ever changing roles of instructors and the competencies needed to facilitate. The articles went in depth giving examples of how to navigate online facilitation by staying current and keeping abreast of changes in the online enviornment.
One discussion question for this week asked students to find an active link to a website that offers faculty support for online instructors. Here is the text from my discussion post:
The site I
chose is a blog from The Spark, the official blog for Harvard
University's Extension School. I think the site offers realistic
suggestions for beginning online students. It is also a current blog
that is updated frequently so information is not outdated. The posts
show different points of view and demonstrates a understanding that
every online student is different and has different needs.
To view the link above, please press ctrl and click the word site or go
to
http://harvardextension.wordpress.com/2012/05/02/3-tips-for-online-students/
Stay tuned for the end of Part 2...
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