The Adjunct’s Role in Delivering Quality Online Instruction

The Adjunct’s Role in Delivering Quality Online Instruction

Laurie Bedford
Copyright: © 2012 |Pages: 29
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-4666-1655-4.ch017
OnDemand:
(Individual Chapters)
Available
$37.50
Current Special Offers
No Current Special Offers
TOTAL SAVINGS: $37.50

Abstract

Efforts to promote the distinctiveness of online programs in an increasingly competitive market have led to a focus on instructor expertise and instructional quality. The part-time instructor, who is most often charged with facilitating online courses, is commonly viewed as a liability to the integrity of the instructional process. However, little is known about the true nature of the motivations or competencies of this group of instructors. Most often, they are perceived as a homogeneous group with similar motivations and levels of expertise. This case challenges this notion by focusing on a single instructor categorized as a full-time, professional adjunct and is characterized by her colleagues as highly skilled. The case participant describes challenges and best practices that support her in providing quality instruction. These best practices subsequently are discussed as strategies to inform decisions upon which marketing efforts are dependent.
Chapter Preview
Top

Setting The Stage

In the early stages of the growth of online education, the programs themselves could be marketed as unique because of their convenience and flexibility (Garrett, 2008). However, as online education has proliferated, it has become clear that these arguments alone will not continue to be sufficient evidence of a distinctive program that will offer unique opportunities. Nor do they address issues of the quality of instruction executed by adjunct instructors. Organizational leaders need to recognize that their marketing efforts must be adjusted for a new and savvier audience. This audience is not bound by time or place but represents a growing number of individuals for whom choice is unlimited. In addition, this audience is characterized by a trend in which adult learners expect an education with broad and personal meaning attached (Forest & Peterson, 2006). For these adult learners, quality programs are a distinguishing factor in their decision about which online program will best meet their academic needs (Gibbons & Wentworth, 2002).

Complete Chapter List

Search this Book:
Reset