Eight Roles of an Effective Online Teachers

Tonight I read a very interesting article by Dr. Bernard Bull regarding eight characteristics of how to bring online courses to life.  He summed it up in these points:

• Tour Guide
• Cheerleader
• Learning coach
• Individual and Group mirror
• Social Butterfly
• Big Brother
• Valve Control
• Co-Learner

I thought all of the points made sense, but some of them stood out to me more than others.  I really liked the "Cheerleader" aspect of it, because this would denote a very positive attitude, which is definitely needed in online learning!  It is far too easy to feel like one is out there floating in the wilderness of technology.  As a cheerleader, the instructor can keep students interested.  Besides, cheerleaders are generally very upbeat - and who doesn't like a positive person?

A "learning coach" is also a very positive way to think about an instructor.  A coach is someone who teaches and encourages you to be your best - or to learn all you can.  Again, this would be more of a positive approach rather than the scary teacher standing over you!

I have to admit, the "Big Brother" reference gave me pause!  It was kind of scary to think that an instructor is actually able to follow all the clicks of his students to see which materials they are utilizing.  I guess I just wasn't ready for that 'up close and personal touch' just then!

My favorite point is the "Co-Learner."  Bull describes how the instructor must also be willing to be a learner.  There is no one who knows absolutely everything.  If an instructor has an attitude that he/she is the end all and be all, that can make it very difficult for free expression in the class.  It would feel as if your thoughts are already 'wrong,' according to he/she who knows everything.

I appreciate the positive influence that an instructor can have, and since the virtual world seems to be growing by leaps and bounds, it is good to remember that having that positive attitude, and being ready to be the leader - but leading gently and positively - is the best way to go. 

I can appreciate being prepared.  I have an ongoing nightmare that I'm on stage expected to perform and I have no idea what to do because I never had the rehearsal.  This is what it would be like to be a course facilitator who hasn't bothered to be completely prepared for his course.  It is much easier to enjoy the students and discussing things with them when one isn't worried about not having the course fully prepared.  Perhaps this recurring nightmare will actually help me to be a well-prepared instructor.  One that can make online learning a comfortable and pleasing environment for those in my course.  It sure is a great goal to strive for!