Recent Posts
- Theoretical Framework: Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
- Disseminating Research Plan – Designing for Inclusivity in the Workplace
- Revisiting 3-2-1 Digital Facilitation
- Community of Inquiry: Facilitation strategies for creating great educational experiences in digital environments
- 3-2-1 Digital Facilitation
Recent Comments
- Ash Senini on Theoretical Framework: Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
- Emma Keating on Theoretical Framework: Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
- Ashley on Disseminating Research Plan – Designing for Inclusivity in the Workplace
- Ash Senini on Disseminating Research Plan – Designing for Inclusivity in the Workplace
- Ash on Community of Inquiry: Facilitation strategies for creating great educational experiences in digital environments
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I agree that empathy is your superpower and I know as I have had the privilege of working with you. Empathy is one superpower that is not only an asset but has been a necessary trait/skill/talent needed to be a competent teacher in today’s world and ever more so during the pandemic.
During my 15 years working with my organization, I have had the chance to work in the government funded area of the organization (where classes are paid for by the government) and the free enterprise area of the organization (where students pay) which are both equally important to the community. One thing that I have realized is that the classes that had the best student retention and student participation were the classes where teachers were caring and sensitive to students’ needs. Every four weeks teachers are assessed by students anonymously and that can be sometimes eye opening and a little painful when you do not get the feedback you like but an excellent tool to have a clearer understanding of your impact on learners. Over the pandemic and the shift to online learning, I was worried that lack of technological expertise would be critical. After the dust settled and the months went by, it was clear that the teachers who had empathy and were able to make connections with students, were the instructors who still had students to teach. Technology was and is especially important, but it was not the deciding factor of what made a great teacher and for most of our teachers they are also designing their lessons.
Sam
Thank you for your comment, Sam! I appreciate your insights into what it takes to create flourishing learning environments. To speak to your example about empathetic teachers at your organization connecting more with students after the shift to online classes, I believe this is because we are all wired to relate to one another and feel a sense of belonging. Learners enrolled in online programs shouldn’t be regarded as any different. Ultimately, as a course facilitator and/or instructional designer, you want to influence and inspire learners, which takes empathy. Unfortunately, while applying learning theories, sticking to the course objectives, aligning learning activities to goals, and meeting organizational expectations, empathy most likely gets overlooked. That’s a shame, because without it, how can one develop trust with their learners and make them believe in their message?