How to Be a Successful Online Instructor

Online instruction is gaining momentum in college settings, as well as in the supplemental

education market, e.g., tutoring, test-prep, training sessions, continuing education, and more.

College professors, high school teachers, and 190-513
teaching enthusiasts are taking advantage of the online learning tools to reach a greater

student pool, and earn money.
Unlike conventional classrooms, however, teaching online presents unique challenges. Online

instructors should have certain characteristics to make online learning a rich and meaningful

educational experience.
• Be Knowledgeable
As a teacher, be knowledgeable about the subject matter. Online instructors, like all teachers,

should be competent. Online instructors need to be enthusiastic about the topic and respectful

of the new medium of teaching.
• Possess Writing Skills
While online classes maybe video-enabled, most of online teaching is through written

communication. Online teacher should 190-531
be comfortable communicating in writing.
• Ask for Feedback
Ask for feedback from students on the instruction, as well as the material. Student feedback is

crucial for instructors to refine their online teaching methodology and the content being

offered. Since there is no face-to-face interaction, online teachers can learn about what works

(and what doesn't) by soliciting feedback.
• Give Feedback
Keep students engaged by giving constant feedback. Students can often feel "lost" in a virtual

classroom. Instructors should give students timely and constructive feedback. Having regular

communication with students with respect to their questions, concerns, and progress is vital to

maintaining students' motivation and ensuring success.
• Set Deadlines
Deadlines are important to keep the work flow moving. For example, set deadlines for your own

lesson plans, student assignments, conference participation, and all other work to take the

class to completion.
• Be an "Architect"
Carefully design class syllabus/lesson plan, objectives, expectations, and policies. Whether you

are teaching a course with multiple-sessions 190

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or a one-time class, it is very important be prepared and to set these types guidelines at the

outset.
• Be a Participative Facilitator
Online classes do not teach themselves. In order to create an effective online learning

environment, show up and teach. Keep in mind, lecturing may not be the best method to impart

knowledge online. Instead, facilitate discussion by eliciting comments and views from students.
• Sense of Humor? Not Required
Since most of online teaching is written, remember that spoken humor does not necessarily

translate well when written out. Know your audience. Stay away from controversial hot topics.
• Basic Technical Know-How? Required
For effective learning to take place, the delivery of materials should be seamless. Online

instructors should have basic fluency with respect to the technology and collaborative tools. If

needed, there are many free resources available on the Internet that provide online instructors

with technical knowledge to keep yourself updated.