Teaching with Technology
I think this image on www.createonlineacademy.com delivers a clear compelling message for professional language trainers like myself. In fact, it's a wake-up call. I have spent a lot of time in a traditional classroom environment as well as carrying out professional training face-to-face for individuals and groups, which includes online tutoring. I find one of the greatest drawbacks of traditional face-to-face teaching is I'm limited to a maximum number of hours per week in which I can share my knowledge with learners, and I waste too much time travelling.
There is no doubt in my mind that technology has opened up opportunities for learners and trainers to make the experience more interesting and valuable, and more effective in terms of time and cost. Certainly 'Blended learning', where you can combine materials and resources on an online platform with personal coaching, face-to-face in personal lessons or online, via Skype etc., is becoming more and more popular.
Teaching online is something I find I really enjoy, as you still have face-to-face contact but can also use so many other resources with your students. However, there is still a limit to the number of hours you can be available. This is why I find the idea of also creating online courses, which can focus on meeting the needs of particular types of learners, very appealing.
Online courses run on a professional teaching platform can give trainers, like myself, the opportunity to reach a far wider audience, and offer good value for money. It's important to remember that prospective clients are looking for courses that will enable them to achieve their personal objectives and suit their learning style. High quality content is essential, of course, and most people like a mix of resources, such as videos, recordings, downloadable documents, with access links to other useful material, as well as online tests, certification for completed studies, and so on.
Choice is always a good thing. I like the idea that you can offer a good quality standard course, but also produce a premium version, for example, with extra content and a personal consultation online. This is not exclusive. You can create specialised online courses and complement this with online tutoring, for example, on verbling.com. This way students can select the combination that works best for them.
Technology and teaching are perfect companions. The opportunities to be a creative, professional trainer and coach for learners all over the world are endless.
September 27, 2018
