click image to enlarge
The curatorial teacher sets the stage for learning to take place. Learners are now comfortable with using technology, but can download information faster that they can interpret and use it. The curatorial teacher must make sense of all of the tools that are readily available to learners and create an environment for authentic problem solving.
The teacher should be sure to introduce a detailed syllabus at the start of the class to guide instruction. He/she can also use online lectures, videos, research databases, and journal articles to build content knowledge.
Creating comfortable interactions between stdents and the instructor is one of the most important aspects of the online classroom This can be done through blogs, chat rooms, wikis, email, peer-based learning, a discussion area, and an FAQ area.
There are many tools available to nurture authentic, collaborative problem soving such as iPods, wikis, smartphones, and learning communities. These can promote interaction and effective group assignments.
Take this poll or post your comment on the question of whether or not online learning can be as effective as classroom learning.
View this article which discusses the importance of effective communication in online education. Data is taken from a study at Drexel University for this article.
References
Durrington, V. A., Berryhill, A., & Swafford, J. (2006). Strategies for enhancing student interactivity in an online environment. College Teaching, 54(1), 190−193
Siemens, G. (2008, January). Learning and knowing in networks: Changing roles for educators and designers. ITForum.
