Siemens (2008) presents a variety of metaphors - concierge, curator, master artist, or network administrator - to describe the role of an instructor in the classroom. Each one has merit, and it is a matter of interpretation when selecting one as the most suitable. Instead, I submit that the role of the instructor should mold and align itself to meet the needs of the content and expected student skill level.
At more advanced academic levels, or in courses where a certain number of prerequisites are required, the instructor’s role could be that of a concierge or curator, which allow students extended freedoms to explore and direct their own learning and ideas that layer from exposure to the learning exhibits. In support of the concierge idea, Siemens (2008) stated that it “serves to provide a form of “soft” guidance—at times incorporating traditional lectures and, in other instances, permitting learners to explore on their own” (p. 16). In his discussion of an educator as a curator, Siemens (2008) added “that educators must assume dual roles: as experts with advanced knowledge of a domain and guides who foster and encourage learner exploration.” (p. 17).
In a digital environment, where learning is self-directed, the role of an instructor can have a direct impact on students’ classroom experiences, expectations and level of student success. In courses (academic or professional) where students may be new to e-learning, faculty presence and interaction are very important elements. Consequently, an instructor as a network administrator may be more effective to provide the direction and guidance needed by this particular demographic “As learners encounter new information sources, the educator encourages them to critically evaluate the source’s suitability as part of a holistic and diversified learning network” (Siemens, 2008, p. 16). Similarly, interaction as a “master artist” suggests a strong faculty presence to provide ongoing engagement, feedback, critique, and discussion.
See a quick video "The Network in the Learning" - Siemens discusses the importance of connectivism and how it can build on cognition.
Reference
Siemens, G. (2008, January 27). Learning and knowing in networks: Changing roles for educators and designers. Paper presented to ITFORUM. Retrieved from http://it.coe.uga.edu/itforum/Paper105/Siemens.pdf
