Most of the learners new to online learning think that taking an online course is comparatively easier than face-to–face course. Many online courses are asynchronous, which means that they can be taken anytime anywhere. This leads to the problem of self-discipline, which can be an issue for many first-time online learners. In the beginning, they may not have an idea of how to manage their personal lives and the online studies. Procrastination may further worsen the issue leading to frustration, dislike for the course, and eventual dropping out. In order to be a successful online student, dedication, self-discipline, and commitment are very important. An online instructor has to act like a facilitator and a gatekeeper to engage learners and create an online course or training such that learners do not feel unattached and drop out. An online instructor can help learners in following ways:
- Instructor should be a facilitator to the student’s learning and must make his/her presence known in the online course by continuously taking part in discussions on the message boards and constantly answering questions.
- Using multimedia, instructor can provide many opportunities for interaction via discussion boards, asynchronous chat, synchronous chat, and a virtual lab for hands-on experience to make course interesting.
- Instructor can provide activities that mirror real-world situations.
- Instructor can personally motivate students through emails, chats or phone conversation, if required.
- Instructor can facilitate building a support system among students to help each other with suggestions.
- Instructor can relate the learners’ knowledge and experience to the course content to assist them to better engage in the course.
- Instructor may encourage students to maintain a calendar so that they can keep track of deadlines and important dates.
- Instructor may communicate clear expectations in the beginning of the course regarding number of hours each student must put in every day/week.
- Instructor can assist slow learners by giving them more attention and regular reminders
There may be students with ADHD/ADD who tend to have issues with focusing on one thing at a time. They may be impulsive and hyperactive and may get distracted easily. They should be treated with patience, understanding, and flexibility. The computer-based activities should be highly structured and organized and should provide immediate feedback. Thus instructors play a key role in the success of online courses.