Virtual Classroom Training: The Results of A Qualitative Study of Synchronous Teaching Preparation

Concurrent Session 3
Streamed Session OLC Session

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Session Materials

Brief Abstract

This presentation will review the findings of a research study conducted in January 2016 that focused on the types of training, if any, online instructors have received that pertains to teaching in the online environment.

The study was conducted by a team of researchers from the University of Virginia who have broad experience in the field of online learning and believe that knowledge of the kind of training our colleagues have received will help academics and administrators shape training programs going forward. The Online Learning Consortium collaborated with the team of researchers to distribute the survey and present the research findings.

Presenters

Lead Presenter: Glenn Kessler, University of Virginia / Align Virtual Learning Solutions

Glenn Kessler's professional experience spans higher education, information technology consulting, and business and technology management. As an Assistant Professor of Philosophy and Assistant Dean of the College at the University of Virginia, his exceptional commitment to teaching and the University community were recognized through the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award. He received a M.A. in Philosophy from McGill University and a Ph.D. in Logic from Princeton University. More recently he was Associate Director and Assistant Professor in BIS Adult Degree Program at the University of Virginia. His publications span the areas of modal logic, philosophy of mathematics, psychology and technology project management. See www.alignvls.com for additional information

Extended Abstract

Online learning is fast becoming a major component of higher education. Students clamor for the convenience of online courses, and administrators find them economical. However, for those of us in the college teaching profession, online learning and the "virtual classroom" present challenges.This presentation will review the findings of a research study conducted in January 2016 that focused on the types of training, if any, online instructors have received that pertains to teaching in a synchronous online environment.

The study was conducted by a team of researchers from the University of Virginia who have broad experience in the field of online learning and believe that knowledge of the kind of training our colleagues have received will help academics and administrators shape training programs going forward. The Online Learning Consortium collaborated with the team of researchers to distribute the survey and present the research findings.