To be an effective online facilitator requires visibility in the online environment through instruction design and direct communication with students, frequent communication including feedback using technology, and organization to manage time in a distance learning setting. Key skills for facilitators include communication, creating an active learning environment, engaging learners, encouraging collaboration, relating course material to real life, setting clear expectations, guiding rather than instructing, and giving and accepting feedback. Facilitator development progresses through phases from visitor to master. Effective facilitation also uses multiple methods of delivery.

1. Facilitator Presence & Visibility
Patrick Mose, Ph.D.
Office of Instructional Innovation

2. Key skills needed to become an effective
facilitator:
1. Visibility
2. Communication
3. Organization

3. Visibility
• An effective online facilitators establish a
presence in their online environment by
designing instruction and giving direct
instructions to your audience.

4. Communication
An effective online facilitator communicates
with students frequently, provides feedback,
and communicates well using technology

5. Organization
Organization is essential to good facilitation.
In an distance learning environment time
management is crucial.

6. Facilitator Skills
1. Communication
2. Create an Active Learning Environment
3. Engage the Learner
4. Encourage Collaboration
5. Tie Course into Real Life Situations
6. Set Clear Rules and Expectations
7. Be a Guide instead of a Instructor
8. Give and Accept Feedback

7. Phases of Facilitator Development
1. Visitor
2. Novice
3. Apprentice
4. Insider
5. Master

8. Multiple Methods of delivery