Concerns of New Online Teachers

1. ·        New online teachers are often concerned about not being able to see their students and have their student see them. Web technology will soon make it possible for the students to see you and you to see them, but if you do that then the asynchronous nature of online is lost. I have found that the personality of the students and the instructor does come through in online postings.
2. ·        Medical problems: Internet addiction and physical problems, such as carpel tunnel syndrome are possible for the teacher and the student. One of my past students noted that when she started teaching online she gained weight. I think that there are great physical demands in face-to-face teaching if you are moving around the classroom and interacting with the students. In online teaching you are mostly sitting, so I can see how weight gain could be a concern.
3. ·        Student confusion at login can be a problem. Some institutions offer a course in the software. That is a barrier unless it is optional or unless it is an introductory course that carries credit.
4. ·        Sometimes students need a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) to see if others have asked the same thing.
5. ·        Often, especially at the undergrad level, I give a Quiz on the Syllabus the first week of class. It is for credit (not a lot of credit, but credit) and students can take it many times in the first 10 days of class. My aim is to be sure they know the material. Some teachers call this “The Scavenger Hunt” to avoid the word quiz.
6. ·        I sometimes require students to sign and return to me a “Letter of Agreement” that has item such as “I have purchased the text book” “I understand the grading” “I have a backup computer plan.” They do get credit for this.
7. ·        Not all students own a computer. They may be using the computers in the institution’s computer lab or at a library. Be judicious in the use of multimedia that demands many computer resources.
8. ·        Students should know what is expected. Here is what one community college sends to students http://www.muskegoncc.edu/pages/2246.asphttp://www.muskegoncc.edu/pages/2246.asp (Muskegon Community College) I think all colleges that offer online programs should do this.