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August 15, 2001
Who makes a good online instructor?
Here, some essential qualities to look for when recruiting teachers for online programs.
Curriculum know-how. Online teachers should be well versed in their curriculum area and the standards to which they teach. In most cases, teachers who have been in a district for a number of years will have the knowledge to create lessons appropriate for online courses.
Open to learning technology. While familiarity with e-mail and the Web are important skills, good online instructors need not be techno-whizzes. In fact, one of Wichita eSchool's standouts was a seasoned teacher who began as a technology neophyte-now she's designing amazing online units.
Written communication skills. Because most interaction occurs online, teachers must be adept at explaining in writing precisely how to complete assignments, and be able to describe curriculum content in a way that a non-teacher can understand. E-mail etiquette is key-teachers need to be genuine in their written communications or they can appear cold and uncaring.
Passion for the project. One last point about finding the right teachers: they must be excited about the program. At Wichita eSchool, those who were the most passionate about our mission-not just the extra money-turned out to be the program's real leaders.
How to Launch an Online School > > >
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