Introduction to ONTL 651

I am very excited about our opportunity to facilitate some online teaching this semester.  I expect that I will have a better understanding of the process from the instructor’s point of view and that I will learn to use the tools that are provided for us. 

I look forward to using the “sandbox” as I like to be prepared and don’t like the unexpected.  This provides me with opportunity to use the blackboard collaborate tool, to fully understand and use it’s functionality to present a teaching unit.   Where I work we also employ a “sandbox” for learning our computer program.  Since adult learner learns best from hands on experience we feel that the “sandbox” is an excellent tool.  I am sure that I will learn best by doing as well.

My concerns are that I will not adequately prepare the students for the opportunity to meet their learning objectives.  I am use to teaching a prepared curriculum and this stretches me as I need to also come up with some activities to facilitate learning.  I am thankful for my co-facilitator to work with.  I am sure that together we will not fail our students.

I am concerned that I may not fully understand the functionality of blackboard collaborate and may not use it to its full potential.  However, that is something that I have some control over since I am afforded the opportunity to practice in the sandbox.

Any time we are using technology there is a fear that the technology may not work properly.  This is something that I have no control over but I do intend to have a backup plan in case of technology failure.  

I have found that anytime I am working with a group that there is the potential for the need to “manage” the classroom.  I am very familiar with doing this in a face to face group and if there are any issues it will give me an opportunity to practice those classroom management skills in an online classroom.

I am also more familiar with teaching than facilitating.  I am concerned that if I get nervous that I will fall back to what is most familiar, teaching rather than facilitating.  Again, I have some control over this by preparing properly to reduce my anxiety.  I am also familiar with several people in the class and that familiarity and trust will assist me. 

When all else fails, I have my humor to fall back on.  That seldom fails me.

 

photo courtesy of mon_munchkin_x on photobucket.

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