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Effective Teaching Skills
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Effective Teaching Skills
Effective distance learning requires modifying existing skills, rather than developing new ones. Consider these points:
- Because presenting content at a distance is usually more time consuming than presenting the same material in a traditional learning setting, (e.g. classroom) determine the amount of material you can deliver effectively.
- Participants will have different learning styles. Some learn easily in group settings, while others excel when working independently.
- Vary course activities and avoid long lectures. For example, use presentations with discussions and learner-centered exercises.
- Humanize the course by focusing on the learners, not the delivery system.
- Consider using a print component to supplement non-print materials
- Use locally relevant case studies and examples to assist learners in understanding and applying the program content.
- Use short statements and ask direct questions, realizing that technical linkages might increase the time it takes for learners to respond.
- Develop strategies for learner reinforcement; one-on-one phone discussions and electronic mail communication can be especially effective.
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