Bringing out The Teacher in All of Us: eCourses for Business

May 9, 2013By


Most of us have heard the derogatory statement; “Those who can, do – and those that cannot, teach.”  If you want to see an educator’s blood boil, drop that little diddy in polite conversation. Things will turn ugly in a big hurry! Besides being completely inaccurate, that line stings of arrogance on the part of anyone foolish enough to blurt it out. 

Today, technology has now reached a point where anyone can build an online course and within a short time become a de facto instructor. And depending on the quality of the course content and the demand for that subject matter, fledgling online teachers can also turn a profit. So – if you’ve ever used the line above, here’s your chance to prove how easy teaching really is.

While sitting in on a PodCamp session called “Creating Online Courses for Business,” delivered by Western Massachusetts higher education faculty member Nunzio Bruno, it occurred to me just how much the continuing education playing field has changed recently.

Nunzio’s session was geared towards using eCourses to grow your position as a subject matter expert and thought leader – therefore strengthening your social media position. He talked about bringing value for a business through online learning by becoming synonymous with insightful, credible content. And from all accounts, he hit the target with his presentation and all of us walked away with valuable information and inspiration.

Because most of my career has been tangentially connected to the business of education, my biggest take-aways from the session were focused on the nuts and bolts of course creation, management, and distribution. That’s not to say that the social media and brand-building messages of the session were lost on me. It’s just that, I found the “how-to” elements more intriguing because that is how my brain works.

In no specific order, here are the high level take away items for me:

  • Barriers to entry for creating online instruction are gone – anyone can do it!
  •  Everyone is a lifelong learner these days and staying “dialed-in” can be a lot of fun 
  • As an instructor, it is best to teach on topics that you are passionate about 
  • Regardless of the medium or delivery system, strong course organization is vital 
  • Charging for courses is an option but it’s best to start slow and refine topics and skills

Course Creation Checklist:

1.     Create a course outline and focus on learning outcomes

2.     Don’t forget to think about course flow considerations

3.     Create a course name that is clear and easy to market

4.     Decide on synchronous or asynchronous approach

5.     In the course description be sure to explain the value of the course

6.     Use words that your target students are likely to use

7.     When available – use testimonials to market your course

8.     When possible, align your course with your company or personal brand

9.     Market across several channels/mediums (YouTube, Slideshare, live chats, etc.)

10.  Syllabus creation must haves: 
                   a. time, date of course/schedule, your credentials, participation/grading policies 
                   (if appropriate), contact methods, interaction modes and methods

Hosting/Platforms/Tools:

www.lkrsocialmedia.com 

I send kudos to Nunzio Bruno and PodCamp Western MA. You’ve opened my eyes and inspired me to look into building some of my own courses. It’s a brave new world out there in online education and everyone is invited.

   
Those that Can – Teach!


Ron Thompson is the Chief Operating Officer 
for Learning Solutions Winstanley. 
He is a three-Time PodCamp Veteran 
with the t-shirts to prove it.