Module 11: Becoming an Online Instructor

Module 11– Becoming an Online Instructor

            According to the GAVs website, applicants must:

• Have a valid certificate
• Hold certification in the area being applied for
• Possess excellent computer skills
• Have a willingness to spend time online
• Complete a GAVs training program

These are the minimal requirements for seeking employment through GAVs.  However, enrollment and needs must also be taken into consideration before an educator is hired.

            I also viewed some other websites to find out more about requirements for becoming an online instructor.  I viewed K-12 and Connections Academy.  Both require teachers to be certified, have experience using technology, and to obtain training in virtual teaching and management.  K-12 and Connections Academy seem consistent with GAVs when it comes to teaching requirements.  The only major difference is that K-12 and Connections Academy offer elementary courses in addition to highschool courses. 

            My Georgia Southern coursework in the Masters and Specialists programs coupled with the two years spent as a media specialist, have given me the technological skills necessary to obtain a position online.  Additionally, I spent five years in the classroom in the United States, two years as an Instructional Coach, and am now teaching overseas.  I think I am pretty well rounded when it comes to experience, and have had the opportunity to serve in a variety of capacities that have allowed me to utilize my technological skills.  According to learn.org, in order to obtain a position as an online teacher, one must have an understanding of both technology and education.  Additionally, it is suggested that one has good communication skills in order to reply to emails, write clear and concise instructions, and interact virtually with students and parents.  I think communication primarily in a virtual environment would be an adjustment as face-to-face teachers speak a lot.  However, I do not think this would be an impossible or hard adjustment to make.

Despite my pedagogical and technological training, additional training would be needed on the platforms used by whichever institution I might apply for (i.e. Folio or Brightspace).  However, through my research, it seems as though companies offer training for these platforms before applicants begin to teach the online course. 

How to Become an Online Instructor in 5 Steps. (n.d.). Retrieved from 

  http://learn.org/articles/Online_Instructor_How_to_Become_an_Online_Instructor_in_5_Steps.html