We live on a blue planet, where water comprises 70% of the surface. Water is the universal solvent. Water is the key to life, vital to all organisms. Water is the ultimate example of adaptation, able to take on whatever shape its environment calls for, able to exist in three different states (solid, liquid or gas). Water is a renewable resource, able to redistribute itself to where it is needed over time. It possess unique hydrogen bonds that make it cohesive, evidenced by its surface tension.
Online educators should be "water like". These teachers, whose skills are essential to their learners, need to be highly adaptable, ever present, bonded to their purpose, capable of dissolving student obstacles to learning and able to disseminate their vital merit where needed. This is good management of the educational experience. Good online educators recognize the need to develop the three types of presence - social, cognitive and teaching. Good online educators are flexible, able to go with the flow. :-) [pun intended] They are devoted to their mission - to help their students develop the skills needed for success in the 21st century, including the 4 Cs - critical thinking, communication, collaboration and creativity. They not only assess their learners' readiness for learning but also the students' acquirement of skills and knowledge. In doing so they can intervene to help remove any barriers. Good online educators are able to assess and predict where they are needed. Maybe even more importantly, they can appreciate where they are not needed. I am learning to be "water like". I have much more to learn and experience, but I am quickly building the framework on which to hang my new skills. I will never look at teaching, or for that matter water, the same!
Neat analogy. I would even bet some online students get "steamed" when things do not go smoothly!
ReplyDelete:-)
I like this analogy too! I think there are some great lessons in here for both us as online students and as future educators. Not getting stuck in a rut and being fluid is essential in the online learning environment. Thanks for helping me learn to be more flexible!
ReplyDeleteHa ha, Britt's pun was funny. There really is a need for the online teacher to be flexible. I mean that in reference to the fact that technology does not always work (which is a frequent complaint of online learners) but also in regards to the flow of the classroom. Because online classrooms are more malleable (and fluid), the teacher needs to be able to redirect conversation in such a way that students still feel comfortable to share. Great food for thought.
ReplyDeleteGreat analogy - I'm certainly one of those can get "steamed." The online teacher seems to have a different, probably expanded, set of responsibilities and challenges in the online classroom. Fluidity is certainly required, as online learners are certain to have different needs.
ReplyDelete