1st Edition

Teaching the Humanities Online: A Practical Guide to the Virtual Classroom A Practical Guide to the Virtual Classroom

By Steven J. Hoffman Copyright 2011
    224 Pages
    by Routledge

    224 Pages
    by Routledge

    This practical guide is essential for anyone new to or intimidated by online instruction. Drawing on the expertise of teachers of the humanities who have deep experiences in the online environment, this work explores a variety of areas within the online teaching experience. It discusses the differences between online and face-to-face learning environments and assesses and evaluates best practices in developing and teaching online courses. This volume is not really about the technology, but instead focuses on the ways in which available technologies can be used to enhance teaching in both synchronous and asynchronous forums, and as such it will still be worth the read many years from now—even in the face of rapid technological change.  Contributions from faculty members teaching in art education, communication, English, history, social studies education, and interdisciplinary studies departments, as well as directors of writing centers and online education and distance learning programs are included.  Essays in this volume will assist instructors, faculty members, and administrators new to the online experience, but who want to learn more about making the transition to online teaching, in navigating this transition gracefully. 

     

    Acknowledgments

    Introduction: The Future Is Now Steven J. Hoffman

    1. Before We Begin: Preparing to Teach Online Khadijah O. Miller

    2. Reducing Distance in Online Classes Lisa M. Lane

    3. Using Electronic Courseware: Lessons for Educators Sharmila Pixy Ferris and Maureen C. Minielli

    4. Making Course Management Systems Work Lisa M. Lane

    5. Blended Classrooms: Hybridity, Social Capital, and Online Learning Peter Sands

    6. Facilitating Interaction in the Online Environment Michelle Kilburn

    7. Using Social Networking Applications in Online Teaching Allen C. Gathman and Mary Harriet Talbut

    8. Redirecting Discussion: Challenges Related to the Social Aspects of Online Educational Environments Melanie L. Buffington

    9. Easier Than It Looks: Using Web Resources in the Humanities Daryl E. Fridley

    10. Assessing Student Learning Online Martha Henckell

    11. Creating an Environment of Faculty Involvement Steven J. Hoffman

    12. If the Future Is Now, What Is Next? Five Trends Affecting the Future of Online Education David J. Staley

    About the Contributors

    Index

    Biography

    Steven J. Hoffman