This
post discusses steps that should be taken when coming from the traditional
learning environment and transitioning to a blended or hybrid approach to
learning. Essentially the instructional methods are similar but the structure
needs to be restructured a bit to accommodate the environment conducive to
online learning. In order to convert to the online format effectively, learning
has to be student-centered; therefore the student can actively participate and
take responsibility for their own learning process.
Scenario: Consider the following scenario: A
training manager has been frustrated with the quality of communication among
trainees in his face-to-face training sessions and wants to try something new.
With his supervisor’s permission, the trainer plans to convert all current
training modules to a blended learning format, which would provide trainees and
trainers the opportunity to interact with each other and learn the material in
both a face-to-face and online environment. In addition, he is considering
putting all of his training materials on a server so that the trainees have
access to resources and assignments at all times.
Question 1:
What are some of the pre- planning
strategies the trainer needs to consider before converting his program?
Some
pre-planning strategies the training
manager could consider using in making the transition from face-to-face to a
blended format is to re-vamp his approach from teacher-led to student centered
instruction in order to promote and increase student motivation, active
learning and trainee interaction. He should also use resources that provide
visual representation such as streaming video, slide share, prezi, Google docs,
etc. He would also want to illustrate important concepts and topics through the
use of a discussion forum so that the trainees can interact and collaborate
with each other.
It
is definitely important in pre-planning to make sure the trainees have the
materials they need in order to make the transition from F2F to online learning
so that the process does not become frustrating for them. Technology is the
primary source in online learning so it would be beneficial for him to remember
to have a backup plan just in case something goes wrong. Alternative means of
communication should be offered through phone, fax and email addresses.
While
discussing communication efforts, taking time to get to know the trainees
interests and finding out what they need to learn from the training goes a long
way. According to the text “knowing the students and their interests or needs
will help the instructor plan useful learning experiences to ensure transfer of
learning” (Simonson, M., et al., 2012).
Question 2:
What aspects of his original training
program could be enhanced in the distance learning format?
Initially,
the training manager was very frustrated with the lack of communication amongst
trainees within the F2F format, therefore he needs to consider re-evaluating
his instructional approach and think of some strategies to engage his trainees.
Outlined below are steps that could be taken that would assist him and they
include:
Ø
Creating
a learning community where he and his trainees “must take an active role in the
development of a collegial learning situation” (Simonson, M., et al., 2012).
Ø
Including
icebreaker activities as a means for learner interaction, so that they can get
to know each other. According to the text “by gaining knowledge about each
member of the class, the opportunities for communications and collaborations
are enhanced” (Simonson, M., 2012).
Question 3:
How will his role, as trainer, change in
a distance learning environment?
His
role would change from being a face-to-face instructor or traditional lecturer;
to becoming more of a facilitator. This is because more responsibility will be
placed on the learner. He also needs to:
Ø
Make
sure goals, objectives and expectations are clearly aligned and trainee have an
understanding of them.
Ø
Be there
as a source of guidance for the trainees to facilitate them through the process.
According to Dr. Piskurich “each learner
learns at their own pace and in their own way” (Laureate Education, n.d), so as a facilitator it is important to
keep that in mind because everyone will not work at the same level.
Ø
Provide
them with various tools and resources
Question 4:
What steps should the trainer take to
encourage the trainees to communicate online?
Steps
that could be taken to encourage the trainees to communicate online with each
other are:
Ø
Having
them participate in discussion board activities and work in small groups. Using
the discussion forum gives learners the format to communicate with each other regularly
and discuss various topics. Even learners that are usually more passive in the
F2F environment feel comfortable participating in discussions because they don’t
have the feeling of intimidation and feel more confident about expressing
themselves.
Ø
Developing
a tool such as a Wiki or a blog where students can collaborate on assignments,
share points of views, ideas and resources.
References
Simonson,
M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., Zvacek, S., (2012) Teaching and Learning
At a
distance. Foundations of distance education (5th ed.) p. 194-205. Pearson
education Inc.
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (n.d.). Facilitating Online
Learning [Video Presentation]. Baltimore, MD. Dr. George Piskurich and
Jacqueline Chauser.
