Dummy here getting ready to embark on the DL adventure. :arms: I am making a map of my educational future and became intrigued by the idea of adjunct teaching in the future, but I have a couple of "dummy" questions I need answered to help me make some decisions. 1. Job Description: First of all, what exactly does an (online) adjunct do? Specifically, does the adjunct DEVELOP and TEACH the course, or is it more like CONDUCTION an already developed course (leading discussions, answering questions, testing, etc.) 2. Preparation: I've read everywhere that a basic requirement is having a MA in field of interest, or MA +18hrs in specialization. Other than this, are there any courses that would be beneficial for learning HOW TO TEACH at this level? Thanks for the ABCs....
Online adjuct can teach and/or develop classes. Most of the time it is teaching a canned class and following the structure. I always add more to the class with tip, suggestions, and additional questions. I know there are a few certificates in online teaching. I never took them so I am not sure how helpful they would be.
1. Depends on the job. For example, I teach FT at a college where all faculty (FT and Adjunct) develop their own online courses using Blackboard. I also teach at a for-profit online where the classes are canned and I'm only able to add a few bits of content. My job in the latter simply consists of feedback/facilitating discussion/grading and all the associated paperwork. 2. You may find a grad course in your discipline. Also, a professional organization in your field may have helpful books on the subject. For example, I teach English. My local university offers a "How to teach writing" grad course. Also, professional organizations such as NCTE have books on the subject. Other than that, it's mostly trial and error, however wherever you break into teaching you will likely have a peer mentor or supervisor to turn to when questions arise.
