Facilitation for learning

Effective teaching is more than just the successful transference of knowledge, skill or application around a particular topic. Effective facilitation of learning ensures that a surface approach to learning is replaced by deeper, student driven learning that analyse, develop, create and demonstrate understanding. Students need to initiate learning and maintain engagement during learning in their development as independent lifelong learners. Our role as teachers is to facilitate that process.

Changing paradigms

Educators need to acknowledge the changing focus and role of the teacher within tertiary education. Students now play a greater role in achieving their own learning needs, in styles and modes that best suit them.

Teaching in the 21^st century

Traditionally, teachers were the 'holders of information' and their role was to impart this knowledge and skill to students. The internet has changed this, as information can now be freely obtained anywhere, anytime, on anything. Thus the role of teachers has changed to developing the skills and tools to assist students in critically analysing the plethora of information available, and how to apply it.

Why is online teaching important?

This video provides a brief overview of how our increasingly digitally networked world is changing the way we communicate and learn. It examines the benefits and challenges of online teaching, and how higher education is responding and adapting to these changes.

Resources, strategies or assistance

Text/Articles

Ramsden, P. (2003) Learning to Teach in Higher Education. 2^nd ed. London: Routledge Falmer