Why skilled facilitators are essential in elearning
In the delivery of best practise elearning we have a strong preference for faciliatated elearning. Facilitated elearning is where learner’s are guided, supported and assisted by a programme facilitator (who in other places might be called a tutor, instructor or teacher).
The use of the word facilitator is quite deliberate – though it is a mouthful. We find that it is the most acccurate description for this critical role in the programmes we deliver.
Best practise elearning strives to be genuinely learner centered. To achieve this it is essential that learners are supported, encouraged, guided, and assisted to interact, collaborate and learn. This requires facilitation of learning, not teaching at learners and not instruction of learners.
The classic quote is that the facilitator’s role is to be “guide on the side, not sage on stage”.
The use of technology is significant in the elearning context. In the early days, the use of technology in learning was too often seen as able to stand independently of facilitators, in some kind of automated and self-directed learning experience.
Fortunately as elearning has evolved it has become clear that technology is a vehicle for learning, an opportunity to enable collaboration over distance, and can enhance the learning experience – but is NOT a substitute for skilled facilitation.
The reality is that the most effective learning can not take a one-size fits all approach. Standardised learning does not reflect the diversity of learners and their individual needs. A facilitator is able to respond to this variety in a way that adds value to the learning experience.
Similarly collaboration is key and not entirely predictable. Good facilitation fosters good team dynamics, constructive group work, keeps discussions on track and addresses unexpected issues which can arise.
In short, even the best instructional design is enhanced by skilled facilitation.
For further details on the complex role of facilitation in elearning try:
Wearing Four Pairs of Shoes: The Roles of E-Learning Facilitators
Learning Light E-Learning Centre: Facilitating E-Learning
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