Projecting Your Presence | Origin: EL102
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Online Teaching Techniques --> Projecting Your Presence
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
I learned that it is highly recommended to project your presence and authority from a distance and establish a relationship with the students to encourage engagement and active participation.
In all teaching formats, the teacher must establish themselves as the leader and take charge of creating a dynamic learning environment. This builds on what we've already learned and gives us information on the techniques we should use to instruct successfully online.
I learned that maintaining a strong instructor presence online helps students feel supported, comfortable, and connected. I plan to apply this by responding promptly, giving constructive feedback, communicating regularly, and taking time to build individual relationships with my students.
Building rapport with students is an important component of distance learning that can be bridged by sharing your own background and experiences with them.
I found this module to be a wonderful review. I do think a video covering my credentials would be useful for a student on the first day.
I learned that you want to be able to build rapport with your students by sharing your personal biography, professional experience, and also some hobbies/interests. That way students can see you as a "person" but also one with "authority and presence" as you also are talking with them in discussion boards and grading them accordingly.
One of the most important lessons I learned from the Project Your Presence in an Online Course Delivery module is that an instructor's presence is essential for creating an engaging and supportive online learning environment. Regular communication, timely feedback, active participation in discussions, and personalized interactions help students feel connected and motivated. I intend to apply these strategies by maintaining consistent communication, providing meaningful feedback, and being actively involved in my online courses so students feel supported throughout the learning process.
In this module I learned about posting a small biography to help students learn more about me and prompting them to engage in conversation with one another.
I will post a bio in my course announcements and encourage students to refer to it. I will also share a picture.
MY take away from this is that getting to know your students and the students getting to know the instructor goes a long way. I usually discuss briefly my credentials and experiences on the first day and then ask students a few questions about their experiences and reasons for the study of choice. I think having them write a biography will assist in knowing them better and knowing each other better than just an introduction. I intend to use this strategy and elaborate on my hobbies, and interests as well.
What I took from this module is the fact that an instructor can still be present even though they are conducting a class through online. An instructor can be seen as being present by consistently replying to students posts, answering their students questions, and having various activities that require interaction.
Let the students know of your background, experience, and your achievements. Have students post their background and interests so that the instructor can get a feel for the students. Let the students tell the instructor their hobbies and interests and tell the students your hobbies and interests. This will lighten up the course training, and everyone is comfortable with the course training.
Moving forward, I will make my experience and expertise known so students can feel secure.
I learned some good ways for me to get to know students, and for them to get to know one another.
One of the most important parts of teaching online is making sure students know you are present and engaged. Keep your camera on when possible, look into the camera to make eye contact, and speak with enthusiasm to keep students interested. Start class by welcoming students and creating an environment where they feel comfortable asking questions and participating. I also think it is important to begin each class with clear learning objectives and an agenda so students know what we will cover and what is expected of them.
I learned that projecting my presence as an online instructor is important for building trust and creating a supportive learning environment. Introducing myself, sharing my qualifications and experience, communicating regularly, responding to students in a timely manner, and encouraging interaction can help students feel more connected and engaged. I plan to apply this by maintaining open communication, providing prompt feedback, and creating a welcoming learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions.
Establishing a strong online presence as a faculty member is essential because it helps build trust, credibility, and meaningful connections with students in a virtual learning environment. Unlike traditional classrooms, online learners may never meet their instructor in person, making the instructor's presence a key factor in student engagement and success. By introducing yourself professionally, communicating regularly, providing timely feedback, participating actively in discussions, and demonstrating expertise and approachability, you create a supportive and welcoming learning environment. A visible and engaged instructor helps students feel connected, increases motivation, encourages participation, and reduces feelings of isolation that are common in online courses. Ultimately, a strong faculty presence enhances the overall learning experience, promotes student persistence, and contributes to higher levels of academic achievement.
An instructors presence is just as important in an online classroom as it is in a face to face setting. Being visible, approachable, and engaged through regular feedback, communication, and active participation helps students feel connected and supported.
Establishing relationships is perhaps more important in online learning than for in person learning, specifically because your online presence really is the only way the students can get to know you (and vice versa).
