20460f


 * Proposal submission #20460**

Top Three Characteristics of an Online Instructor and My Teaching Philosophy
 * Title**

Julieta Beam, Kaplan University, Boca Raton, Florida, USA, jbeam@kaplan.edu
 * Presenter(s)**

The first and most obvious characteristic necessary to be demonstrated by an online instructor is a complete and total command of the subject matter. Confidence and leadership are the byproducts of proficiency. The second characteristic that must be present is the ability to explain the subject matter and convey the more subtle meaning of the information. This of course is not a one way process because to successfully educate, the teacher must have an effective discourse with the student that identifies strengths and weaknesses as discussed above. This second characteristic requires the instructor to have control over the online environment so that precious time is not wasted and relevant issues can be addressed. Finally, the third characteristic of a good online instructor is that they can take the pulse of their students and interact with them in a fun and exciting way. Without this last ingredient, students will tend to loose interest and not connect to the instructor in a productive and meaningful way.
 * Description**

My Teaching Philosophy The overriding principal that defines my teaching philosophy is a dedication and commitment to the individual student. Although this can be a challenge given the multiple demands of a university environment, I have found that by relating to each student in a personal way, it is possible to identify their strengths and weaknesses. I strongly believe that each student has unique qualities or strengths that can be directed and amplified in order to facilitate their education and self-fulfillment. As for the weaknesses that may stand as an impediment to the student's academic growth, my goal is to help them understand that weaknesses are not insurmountable hurdles but natural limitations that can be overcome through hard work and perseverance.

In broader terms, my online teaching philosophy is guided by a natural love for learning. Through my own personal experiences, I am convinced that the greatest gift a teacher can provide is to cultivate a student's inherent curiosity. This natural desire to understand the world around us is common to all, but regrettably, dormant in many. My ambition when teaching is to inspire the student to probe the deeper meaning of a subject and consider the many ways in which it affects the world around us. If I am able to accomplish this goal, then I simply become the tour guide on one of life's most fascinating adventures.

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 * Notes & Comments**