personas: attitudes of faculty members towards e-learning
TRANSCRIPT
Positive attitude towards information and communication technologies (ICT), intensive Web and mobile device usage (Social Networking, Blog, Twitter, iPod), likes to be an early adopter of emerging technologies.
The Enthusiast
Easy to engage in dialogue about new technologies. Instructional consultation needs to focus on realistic expectations, foster pedagogical perspective, avoid
using technology for technology’s sake. Potential advocate among faculty colleagues. Include in research
and development projects.
Surf the Technology
Curve!
Go with the flow! Has a neutral attitude towards e-
learning, uses Web and e-mail as everyday communication tools.
Accepts easy-to-use, low-key solutions, once they are used by the
majority of her peers.
The Observer
Instructional consultation needs to depict e-learning as a part of, not apart from the academy. Offer tools and
training to solve individual communication needs, offer small steps and easy-to-integrate teaching techniques.
Training for teaching assistants as a door-opener.
Views e-learning as expensive or waste of time, uses digital media for
personal and professional communication, but has concerns
about privacy and copyright issues. Motivated teacher, gifted speaker
who delivers great lectures, popular with students.
The Traditionalist
Kudos to a great teacher – e-learning can reach more learners! Stress the importance of e-learning to
enhance opportunities for individual learners and support the reputation of the University. Great
candidate for lecture recording. Very busy schedule, training for teaching assistants mandatory.
Sage on Stage
Opposes e-learning in particular and innovation in general. Has no
interest in pedagogical consultation or new teaching methods. Distrusts new media, often complaints about
plagiarism.
The Naysayer
Convince with examples from academic peers, offer tools and training to solve individual communication
needs. If in doubt, ignore.
The Party of No!
Acceptance of e-learning depends on anticipated career benefits, i.e.
counts towards tenure, enhances reputation, potential for
publications/ funding. Uses Web and e-mail as everyday communication
tools.
The Careerist
Offer tools and training to solve individual communication needs, convince of the positive image of
excellent online teaching, offer incentives through awards and certificates. Include in research and
development projects.
Give and Take!