In the digital age, online platforms have triggered a profound transformation in educator’s traditional role, redefining the teaching and learning landscape. These virtual environments, equipped with diverse tools and resources, empower teachers to adopt dynamic and learner-centered approaches.
The pandemic has been the primary catalyst for the rise of online learning platforms, fostering a flexible learning habit among many learners. Even now, with the return of physical classes, a significant portion of students continue to prefer online learning platforms. Because these platforms grant students complete control over their studies, enabling them to progress at their own pace. Hence, the role of teaching transforms along with the learning structures.
Online learning platforms enable instructors to reach a wide range of students and go beyond geographical boundaries. Instructors can connect with learners from diverse backgrounds across different cities, states, and countries. This geographical flexibility broadens the instructor’s access to students, offering a global classroom with rich perspectives and experiences that enhance the learning environment.
Online platforms significantly improve education quality through personalized learning, instant feedback, and global access to expertise. These platforms facilitate interactivity and accessibility. Many online tools enable teachers to monitor student performance and provide tailored support. Interactive elements, like discussions and collaborative projects, promote active learning and critical thinking, fostering a supportive and engaging environment. Some specific platforms like OdinSchool provide student support where a student can get a query solved by email and even communicate with the instructors in live sessions.
Recorded classes empower students with the flexibility to learn at their own pace, requiring only an internet connection. This not only benefits students but also optimizes instructors’/teachers’ time. Instructors/teachers can use these time savings to conduct mentorship programs, offer career guidance, and share valuable experiences. Consequently, these comprehensive programs enhance student’s professional journeys.
Coming to the course and the curriculum, Online learning platforms usually concentrate on current industry trends and in-demand technologies, providing practical, industry-focused curriculums. College courses, on the other hand, often cover a wider range of subjects, including theoretical and foundational concepts. Updating college curricula can be a more time-consuming process. As we know, most of the online learning courses are of specific skill. The instructors from these platforms target freshers and working professionals looking to upskill or reskill to advance their careers and help them make better careers.
“My professional journey began as a pharmacist, and then I worked as a clinical data manager, where I developed an interest in data management that led me into the world of data science. As a trainer today, my deepest passion lies in making a meaningful impact on the learner’s careers, and that’s how I hope to be remembered”, Abidunnisa, Instructor at OdinSchool.
Instructor as a Facilitator-
In the evolving landscape of education, the traditional role of an instructor has shifted towards that of a facilitator. This transformation places the emphasis not solely on imparting knowledge but on guiding and nurturing the learning process. The following are some key points that highlight the significance of the instructor as a facilitator in learning:
- The facilitator approach encourages active participation and engagement from students, which can lead to deeper learning and better retention of information.
- As a facilitator, the instructor helps students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by encouraging them to explore and analyze information independently.
- The facilitator approach promotes a collaborative learning environment where students can learn from each other and share their knowledge and experiences.
- In addition, the facilitator provides feedback and guidance to students, helping them to identify areas of strength and weakness and develop strategies to improve their learning.
This approach, which involves adapting teaching methods to meet individual needs and learning styles, enables facilitators to empower students to construct knowledge, develop essential skills, and become lifelong learners.
“I am an engineer by education and have worked as a software engineer, then as an entrepreneur, and now as an educator with more than seven years of experience. My deep passion for teaching is centered on fostering the professional growth of learners. I shifted my career from the corporate world to education to empower individuals for better careers. Providing guidance and encouragement to help learners navigate their upskilling journey gives me a very deep sense of satisfaction.” Chitranjan, Instructor at OdinSchool.
The evolution of online platforms has revolutionized the educator’s role, giving learners practical knowledge and experience. With easy access to vast areas of information, teachers now serve as facilitators, guiding students through personalized learning journeys. This transformative shift promises a more engaged, empowered, and adaptive learning experience for learners in the digital age.
