Online Truths...
or how to be a great ONLINE teacher!

(The TOP 10 List)

10
Although this is a different medium than face-to-face, your goals and objectives for the class are the same.
9
This course is just different... not harder or easier, just more flexible.
8
Building community among the learners and yourself is possible, but depends primarily on written communication.
7
Online isn't for everyone... it takes self-motivation for students to keep on task. If you don't hear from a student for a few days, get back to them by email or phone to find out why.
6
Email is your best friend and lifeline to your students... check it DAILY!
5
Don't ignore the discussion board. Let the students know you are following the discussion by posting timely, focused comments.
4
At the start of each unit or module, email the students to let them know what is coming in the section.
3
Grade materials and send grades promptly.
2
Make sure any directions you give are as clear as possible.
1
Enjoy the course... your enthusiasm for the content will show through even though you never see your students.
 
Instructors need to act as "playground monitors" or gentle guides while participants "play in the sandbox" developing norms and rules as they go.

Palloff and Pratt in Building Learning Communities in Cyberspace