Although the online instructor's role is basically to facilitate,
he/she also should provide relevant materials to enhance the
learning process. As with the student discussion, the materials
need to be focused on the coursework. To help make material
relevant, Instructors should develop questions and activities
for learners that relate to the students' experiences. After
instructors have the biographical information of their students
they may be able to include material that would appeal to
the learning interest of their students.
It should be made clear whether posted material
is mandatory or optional so that students may mange their
time and prepare for responses. Posting online material such
as Mini-lectures and handouts requires careful editing since
they should enhance the face-to-face lectures rather than
offer a replacement. Also, all postings should be checked
for accuracy regularly. Students will become frustrated with
the instructor who posts a website address that is no longer
there.
