Smarthinking works to facilitate a culture of
professional reflection and consistent quality among the team of e-structors. All e-structors
must successfully complete a real-time, online training program that focuses on both
technological skill and online instructional practices.
E-structors also must collaborate with fellow e-structors and participate in on-going
development exercises held throughout the academic year. The e-structor Training Program
involves a combination of self-paced online modules, interactive sessions with veteran
e-structors and meta-cognitive exercises. In their online practice sessions,
e-structors undergo an orientation to their respective technology platforms and then
work with academic coordinators and veteran e-structors, who assume a variety of student
roles. Simulated tutorial exercises represent diverse situations and student needs
that typically are encountered throughout the semester (for example, scenarios involving
ESOL and non-traditional students, as well as students with varying learning styles). |
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Upon completion of the training program, e-structors
must demonstrate competence in specific content areas, competence in online communication
and instruction and an understanding of the values that drive our practice.
E-structors also undergo ongoing evaluation and professional development exercises.
Academic coordinators undertake formal bi-weekly evaluations of e-structor performance
followed by debriefing sessions, as well as less formal, daily monitoring of tutorial
activities. These reviews focus on the specific challenges and complexities of working
with a diverse student population in an online learning environment. Moreover, e-structors
communicate with one another regularly via listserv and instant messaging functions;
lead e-structors and academic coordinators moderate these discussions. This communication
provides opportunities for e-structors to engage in on-going conversations about their
practice and the build a sense of community with their colleagues.
If you have any question about e-structure' qualifications, training or abilities, please
contact Christa Ehmann, Vice President of Education, cehmann@smarthinking.com |
