How to be an Online Tutor.
by Julia Duggleby.
Gower, 2000.
Hardback, 158 pages,
Price £39.50.
ISBN 0 566 08247 0

As more and more organizations are considering the Internet as a training option or supplement to more traditional training, it becomes essential that trainers and educators become au fait with the techniques, instruments and approaches relevant to this medium. The author has, in a relatively small number of pages, not only described how trainers might convert their skills to the new medium, but gives an excellent description of the Internet (including the use of e-mails, conferences, chats and all the other useful aspects of the medium). The style is clear, concise yet comprehensive, and very readable, requiring only an elementary pre-knowledge of the Internet and little in the way of technical expertise.

The twelve chapters and appendices in five sections, include What is Online learning, who wants it and why? – Different modes of delivering; Why choose online learning: A tutor’s guide to the Internet – Introduction to the Internet; Finding your way around the web; Using the Internet to communicate: The Planning Cycle – Planning the course; The content of your course: Getting your course up and running – Preparing delivery; Supporting learners through the course; Evaluating the course: Appendices – Case studies; Sending attachments; Learning outcomes and assessment criteria grid; Group progress grid. What a lot to pack in such a small book!

If you are going to have anything to do with training or education that includes online learning or simply want to know what you might have to do if necessary, or even to learn something about the Internet and its capabilities in distance/open learning, read this book. The author is obviously an enthusiast, even though it is far from proven in this country that this method of training and education will outstrip other, more traditional forms. Ask me in the year 3000!

Leslie Rae
February 2000

This title will be available shortly in the TrainingZone Mall