Creating a Sense of Presence in Online Teaching: How to Be There for Distance Learners

This important new resource shows how a strong sense of onlinepresence contributes to greater student satisfaction and retention.The authors explore the psychological and social aspects of onlinepresence from both the instructor and student perspective andprovide an instructional design framework for developing effectiveonline learning.

Based on solid research and extensive experience, the book isfilled with suggested methods, illustrative case scenarios, andeffective activities for creating, maintaining, and evaluatingpresence throughout an online course.

"The authors have taken the mystery out of the critical conceptof presence by providing the theory that supports its importanceand simple techniques to make it happen. Instructors who read thisbook will be able to develop effective online learning communitiesand achieve desired learning outcomes."
--Rena M. Palloff and Keith Pratt, program directorsand faculty, Teaching in the Virtual Classroom Program, FieldingGraduate University

"Lehman and Concei o blend hands-on experience, research, and a collection of practical tips to provide everyonline instructor with strategies for 'being there.' If you want tobring the real you into your online classes and take your onlineteaching to the next level, this is the book to read."
--Chip Donohue, director of distance learning, EriksonInstitute

"This book provides a practical and interactive model to helpreaders reflect on why and how they can guide online and blendedlearning activities, characterized by a personal 'sense ofpresence.'"
--Alan B. Knox, professor, School of Education, University of Wisconsin-Madison