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For the last few weeks in LRNT 528 I had the opportunity to observe, collaborate and even co-facilitate an entire week of online activities. After revisiting and reflecting on my original 3-2-1 Blog Post I realized that some of my original thoughts and questions have somewhat shifted.
THREE initial thoughts about facilitation in digital environments
- I still believe that facilitation in digital environments goes beyond the integration of technologies in training processes or just giving virtual presentations. In fact, for the last four weeks it was clear that we all have different perceptions and chose different delivery methods for our facilitation week activities.
- Facilitation in digital environments is challenging and I found very valuable taking the role of a learner to become a better facilitator. It gave me a different perspective and appreciation to the what an online facilitator does.
- There are many new tools and platforms available today, while it is hard to keep up with all of them, they give us an opportunity to stay current with new trends and technologies.
TWO questions you have about digital facilitation
- As facilitators, how do we measure success in the delivery of an online course? Is it only by grades? Engagement and participation? Attendance to synchronous sessions?
- As learners, do we really provide helpful and constructive feedback to improve future deliveries of the course?
ONE metaphor
Digital facilitation is similar to how we choose, drive, and keep our vehicles. They both come with some personal taste and character of course. However, some people choose old and classics while others prefer the latest models with the most technology available. Some people like driving their cars “fast and furious” while others drive them “slow and steady”. Lastly, some like to keep their vehicles shiny and clean while others prefer to keep them a bit messy. As mentioned in my initial post, when you are the facilitator, you are on the driver’s seat; you own it, you maintain it, and you try to keep it in tip-top shape!