The experience of teaching online and its impact on faculty innovation across delivery methods

Publication date: Available online 24 June 2016 Source:The Internet and Higher Education Author(s): Lorna R. Kearns As traditional colleges and universities increasingly incorporate online learning programs into their curriculum, it is important to understand the benefits that may accrue to the faculty who teach in those programs, particularly those that influence instructors' continuing participation in face-to-face (f2f) teaching. The purpose of this qualitative study was to provide a greater understanding of how the experience of teaching online influenced instructors' thinking, planning, and enactment in their teaching practice across delivery methods. Four overarching themes emerged: 1) Reflecting on Practice, 2) Creating Structure, 3) Conducting the Class, and 4) Facilitating Learning. Reflecting on Practice occurred when instructors questioned themselves about their teaching goals and objectives. Creating Structure encompasses course planning and designing. Conducting the Class refers to the ongoing consideration of maximizing class time for student learning. Facilitating Learning involved creating conditions that promote student learning. Three trends had an impact on the themes: 1) a shift in focus from teaching to learning, 2) a growing awareness of the affordances of technology and media, and 3) a weakening of the boundary between in-class and out-of-class learning activities.
Source: The Internet and Higher Education - Category: Information Technology Source Type: research