EDU633 PROJECT 4: ONLINE TEACHING PHILOSOPHY

Online Teaching Philosophy

Elisabeth Schlegel

Post University, May 01, 2020

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EDU633 PROJECT 4: ONLINE TEACHING PHILOSOPHY

Online Teaching Philosophy

Introduction

Teaching and Learning in an Online Environment

An educational philosophy is “a systematic and critical rationale that focuses on the

important components defining effective teaching and learning in a particular discipline and/ or

institutional context” (Schoenwetter et al. 2002, p. 84, as cited in Dalton, Wilson & Agius,

2018). This statement usually serves to provide an analysis of teaching methods. The idea behind

an educational philosophy is the notion that passionate educators understand how learning takes

place, how to facilitate this process, and what learner aim to accomplish. An educational

philosophy is dynamic and flexible that changes with experience and insight. Most importantly,

this dynamic thinking involves review of and reflection on all teaching activities, highlighting

the most important educational efforts. Teaching philosophies reflected overtime allow walking

an educational journey (Dalton, Wilson & Agius, 2018).

As defined on https://physicscatalyst.com/graduation/teaching-definition/, “Teaching is one

of the instruments of education and is a special function is to impart understanding and skill. The

main function of teaching is to make learning effective. The learning process would get

completed as a result of teaching. So, teaching and learning are very closely related.” On the

other hand, the definition of learning is, “the activity or process of gaining knowledge or skill by

studying, practicing, being taught, or experiencing something; the activity of someone who

learns; knowledge or skill gained from learning” (Merriam-Webster, 2020). Both, teaching and

learning are activities aiming to change behavior and attitude to reach a specific aim. Assessment

plays a major role for both, teacher and learner. Self-assessment and assessment of how the

teacher or learner performed are important for deepened insight of the taught and the learned.

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EDU633 PROJECT 4: ONLINE TEACHING PHILOSOPHY

My personal view of both roles includes deep understanding of self and knowledge of the

use of learning and teaching preferences. Only if the methods of teaching and learning are known

and their perception understood, can teaching and learning be effective. Universal design aims to

include all teaching and learning preferences for seamless communication. Mutual respect and

caring are the foundation of a fruitful learner- teacher relationship.

What is the Role of the Student in an Online Course?

Ideally, a student wants to be in the online class and is eager to explore. However, even if it

is emergency remote teaching, there is the huge opportunity to embark on an educational

journey. Overall, computer skills, motivation and a commitment to learn and work on their own

would be desirable. Most importantly, however, is openness to find common ground, creativity

and humor, even if computer skills and other foundations are not settled.

What is the Role of the Instructor in an Online Course?

Besides being a content expert, the instructor is comparable to the conductor of an

orchestra…. keeping the overview and allowing others to play at their best. Roles that are

traditional but effective include effective teaching, class management, but also role-modelling

openness and lifelong learning.

What is the Importance of Interactivity in online Learning?

Interactivity engages the learner. It is a concept that connects with Adult Learning Theories

and resonates Bonwell’s concepts, such as, e.g., allowing the learner to reflect and consolidate,

include brief demonstration, engage small groups of learners, and using case studies to involve

students in doing things and thinking about what they are doing (Bonwell & Eisen, 1991).

Interactivity connects teacher and learner.

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EDU633 PROJECT 4: ONLINE TEACHING PHILOSOPHY

Teaching Strategies for Assessing Student Achievement in Online Courses.

Assessment strategies in online courses include formative and summative options. Tests

and exams are automatically scored by the software, while assessments such as projects, class

papers or discussion boards require individual scoring based on a rubric. I prefer demonstrations

of marketing of content through student presentations.

Summary Statement

As students choose career paths, we as educators touch their lives in order to connect to

their ambitions and support them in fulfilling a career goal. Students’ learning outcomes are

greatly influenced by the network of academic structure and the way education is delivered.

Thus, the process cannot go unexamined, and we need to strive to understand our impact and

how to optimize our instructional methods. In addition, we need to consider the different learning

preferences. Overall, this process will never be finished – we all need to understand and support

our students and their learning in capacities as coordinators, teachers, advisors, module directors,

or online supporters. Ideally, however, I see myself as a partner in academic and personal

growth, tying education and supportive innovation to ongoing scholarship.

References:

Berge, Z. L. (1995). The role of the online instructor/facilitator. Educational technology, 35(1),

22-30.

Bonwell, C. C., & Eisen, J. A. (1991). Active Learning: Creating Excitement in the Classroom

(A.-EHERN Washington, Trans.): George Washington University.

Dalton, C. L., Wilson, A., & Agius, S. (2018). Twelve tips on how to compile a medical

educator’s portfolio. Medical teacher, 40(2), 140-145.

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EDU633 PROJECT 4: ONLINE TEACHING PHILOSOPHY

PhysicsCatalyst (April 18, 2020) Concept of Teaching and its definition (B.Ed. NOTES).

Retrieved from https://physicscatalyst.com/graduation/.

Merriam-Webster (2020). Learning. Retrieved from https://www.merriam-

webster.com/dictionary/learning