It seems that a biography introducing one's self establishes authority and a biography accompanied with a video or audio and head/shoulder photo also helps to establish a relationship where students feel they "know" about their instructor, about his or her education, experience and overall credentials as well as being able to put a name with a face - a student who feels he or she can put a name with an instructor's face feels more compelled to ask questions based upon the e-learning student/instructor asynchronous relationship. These together helps a student to succeed because the student will gain respect for the instructor while also feeling that he or she has a personal connection through the shared program or course.
Comment on Edric Leggett's post:
So true Edric. I have used a ten-question inventory in combination a short (5- 7-seven sentence) paragraph bio with good effect in my in-person and online teaching. Students seem happy to share, and I get to see their writing style and level without any pressure since these are for participation credit and not graded.
Comment on Alexander Nieves's post:
Right on, Alexander. It's learning the balancing act of being the authority but not being domineering, which would chill the environment and shut down student development.
One take away from this module is to ensure that learners sense the instructor's presence. This comes from active engagement in the process. To be active is to respond promptly and frequently, but not in a domineering manner to end discussion. There is a fine line between being the authority in the room and allowing students to take ownership of their learning.
I have no experience with online teaching. This module provide me with a good start.
I have learned about the importance of biographies, both for instructors and students. Students read the instructor's bio to get a sense of them and to grow faith in their competence. Instructors read the students' bio to get a sense of them and to identify which students might need special help.
There are opportunities to get to know students, even through online classes
I learned that having students create a bio as the first assignment is a great way to get to know one another. I plan to implement that in my future classes.
I learned how asking students to post answers to specific questions can begin the process of developing a relationship.
The instructor must do their best to create an open learning environment, provide room for growth mindsets, and create a sense of community. These all are things that I would like to incorporate into my residential classes as well.
A good way of projecting your presence is to include a bio at the beginning of a course. Introduce yourself to your patients by sharing some highlights of your education, your experience in the field, and some fun facts about hobbies you enjoy.
I like how the emphasis is put on getting to know the students and forming relationships.
Instructors must know how to influence, persuade, inspire, and energize students to ensure centricity and success. Instructors must also participate in discussion forums by offering responses and sharing a summary of their contributions with all participants. Moreover, they must answer student queries and provide informative and constructive feedback within 24 hours. Instructors can highlight their expertise by providing a brief biography, including educational credentials, achievements, and professional experience.
Creating your presence to the class is a important element to teaching. Students want to know that they are being taught by qualified staff. This also helps create a culture of trust with students.
Being present within the classroom allows the instructor to build relationships with the students. This builds a more trusting relationship between faculty and student body. Biographies are a great way to break the ice in the online classroom. It is important for students to know about the instructor both academically and professionally. This helps to build rapport.
Projecting your presence with online courses is a must to have successful learners. Being personal and intentional with outreach to students is a must for successful online course outcome.
Building the foundation for a successful On-Line course begins in creating a relationship with the students by letting them know who I am through my resume and course-related anecdotes from my life as well as getting to know who they are by requesting their biographies and finding each students' special needs.
Online instructors must know how to influence, persuade, inspire, and energize their students just as would be done in a traditional classroom setting.
My credentials go a long way to in making students comfortable with my teaching, and learning about each student will help me connect with them and make them feel like my interest in there education is sincere. I plan on using the bio strategy to get to know about students and letting them learn a little about myself. I believe these personal touches will make everyone more comfortable with communicating with each other.
Getting to know the student is important for both student and teacher.
