Title: Train the trainer: moderation methods for online tutors

Authors: Elisabeth Katzlinger-Felhofer, Ursula Windischbauer

Addresses: Department of Data Processing in the Social Sciences, Economics and Business, Johannes Kepler University of Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, Linz A-4040, Austria. ' Department of Data Processing in the Social Sciences, Economics and Business, Johannes Kepler University of Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, Linz A-4040, Austria

Abstract: To provide online tutors with the appropriate skills and expertise, a special training is needed. The main aspect of supervised e-learning is the online tutor|s support of one or more students. The learners have the opportunity to contact the tutor regardless of place and time, usually by means of e-media. In this paper, a scheme of how online tutors develop their moderation skills is described and subjected to a preliminary evaluation. The prospective tutors apply and train their moderation skills and reflect upon their experiences. For the analysis, the field reports of both the tutors and the students were evaluated.

Keywords: chat; CSCL; computer-supported collaborative learning; higher education; e-learning; electronic learning; e-tutor; electronic tutor; forum; information; moderation; online skills; online tutors; online learning.

DOI: 10.1504/IJIOME.2010.034635

International Journal of Information and Operations Management Education, 2010 Vol.3 No.4, pp.337 - 348

Published online: 13 Aug 2010 *

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