Since I'm an experienced classroom trainer, I thought that I wouldn't have any problems facilitating a discussion group on the Web. I had uploaded my PowerPoint presentation to a special web site ahead of time and familiarized myself with the trainer's console. I was also prepared to teleconference via a phone bridge. The only thing I didn't have was two-way video.
Everything went smoothly until I tried to capture some key points on a white board. I had to switch from using the speakerphone to a handset because some of the participants couldn't hear me. I had to balance the handset while trying to type and follow the discussion at the same time. Then I forgot how to advance the slides.
By this time, I was wondering what the participants were thinking and doing. I could see on the console that they were still logged on, but I couldn't see their faces. I hadn't realized how much I rely on visual cues. The phone line was silent, except for some background noise. Were they still at their computers? Were they sending messages to each other?
Actually, the experience wasn't all that bad. But it made me appreciate the skills needed for teaching a course on the Web.
Later, I searched the Web for some online teaching courses. I found "The Virtual University Gazette's Guide to Programs that Teach Instructors How to Teach Online" that lists online workshops, courses and degree programs offered by various schools and organizations. Go to http://www.geteducated.com/articles/teac... The Virtual University Gazette is a free e-mail newsletter published by geteducated.com. Back issues and subscription information can be found at http://www.geteducated.com/.
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