Managing and moderating the online learning environment

Managing and moderating the online learning environment

The 30 most important factors in managing and moderating the online learning environment in order of priority (the most important first) and differentiated according to the categories that LaBonte, et al (2003) proposed:

Intellectual

1. Contribute one own special knowledge in a collaborative fashion – don’t lecture.
2. Build relevancy into the materials.
3. Encourage participation through use of questions and probing
4. Facilitate discussion – present conflicting opinions, or ask open-ended questions
5. Focus discussions on critical concepts, principles and skills.
6. Build confidence by stating expectations clearly, and don’t expect too much at first.
7. Enable students to experience the moderator role for themselves.
8. Model online intellectual discourse.

Social & Emotional

1. Create opportunities to sustain discussions and interactions.
2. Promote healthy and respectful social interactions.
3. Maintain a non-authoritarian style.
4. Be objective.
5. Model appropriate online behaviour.
6. Create a friendly, social environment.
7. Encourage participants to introduce themselves.
8. Provide opportunities for establishment of independent groups.

Managerial

1. Set clear objectives for the session.
2. Be prepared, well in advance.
3. Be flexible in schedule to accommodate student direction, need and interest.
4. Manage the flow and direction of discussion without stifling creative opportunity – watch for balance in contribution, particularly the instructor’s!
5. Don’t rely on offline materials – bring them into the online environment for discussion.
6. Provide an overview of timetable, procedures, expectations and decision-making norms where appropriate
7. Be responsive – remedy issues as they arise, help participants with information overload.


Technological

1. Become familiar and proficient at the use of the technology – practice in advance.
2. Make sure participants are comfortable with the system – hold practice sessions.
3. Value participation.
4. Create a policy on communications.
5. Try different communication styles.
6. Encourage active use of peer messaging.
7. Be prepared for technology failure – have a backup option (email, fax or telephone).

References

LaBonte, Randy et al (2003) Moderating Tips for Synchronous Learning Using Virtual Classroom Technologies. Odyssey Learning Systems Inc. Retrieved from
http://odysseylearn.com/Resrce/text/e-Moderating%20tips.pdf [Available as an Eresource]