Do students see facilitation as "doing nothing"?
I always wonder if students think a teacher who is stepping back from actively teaching (i.e., lecture) is doing nothing for them and expects them to figure out the class for themselves. I could see students feeling like that's not what they paid for, or that the instructor is lazy. Have you ever encountered this and, if so, how did you handle it?
Absolutely some students do. Show them the research based data. In their own learning and participation, draw their attention to their own increased focus to topics and tasks and interest and greater skill achieved when they are taking charge of their learning In an on-line community learning setting. Remind them to recognize their own pride and increased satisfaction, as well of improved retention of knowledge and skil when they're more actively involved. This helps with adults anyway. I think children may be harder to manage, but are often more flexible and receptive.
