Analysis

Certainly, differences have arisen between instruction in the traditional classroom and instruction in the online virtual classroom. but, does that really mean that the role of the facilitator in distance learning is really going to be degraded to a low-skill job? Most likely not. Those who believe this to be the case wrongly undervalue skills when it comes to the needs of distance education, most of which are the very same as face-to-face education. To be effective, both traditional and online instructors should motivate students, facilitate communication, and foster collaboration. In fact, the onus for communication and collaboration is even higher to overcome the isolating nature of distance learning. Perhaps Simmons and Moore had not realized more than eight years ago how much communication channels such as e-mail, phone, video, discussion forums, and online chats would become a part of distance learning technologies. Thus, their view of facilitators is...
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