The Author Jonathan Finkelstein is the founder and executive producer of LearningTimes™ and the president of the LearningTimes Network. As an educator, technologist, industry expert, and producer, he focuses on creating engaging Web-based programs and practices that help reinvent collaboration and community.

"Finkelstein presents skills needed by online facilitators…" (PsycCritiques, April 11 2007)

• Preface viiAbout the Author xiii1 Learning, Live Online 1Synchronous Interaction Across the Learning Continuum 2Needs Served by Synchronous Interaction 3The Synchronous Compact 5Indicators for Real-Time Online Learning 7Learner Skills Developed and Assessed Live Online 112 Real-Time Learning as Good Practice 15Contact Between Students and Faculty 16Cooperation Among Students 18Active Learning 21Prompt Feedback 23Time on Task 26High Expectations 28Diverse Talents and Ways of Learning 303 Tools for Learning in Real Time 33Text-Based Tools 34Live Audio and Video Tools 36Content, Display, and Other Interactive Tools 404 Real-Time Learning Venues 49A Moving Target 50Chat Rooms 50Instant Messenger 54Multi-user Virtual Environments 55Virtual Reference, Tutoring, and Help Desks 56Virtual Offices and Virtual Meeting Rooms 57Virtual Classrooms 58Interactive Webcasting 59Webcasting or Broadcasting 61In-class Online Aids 635 Facilitating Learning in Real Time 65Be a Good Host 66Inflate a Bubble of Concentration 68Be a Ringmaster 69Use Virtual Body Language 75Rely on Others: You Are Not Alone 84Use the Synchronous Dashboard 86Be Prepared and Manage Crises 916 Real-Time Online Learning Activities 99Magnetic Brainstorms 100Stone Soup 103Solo Fishbowls 107Paired Partners or Dyads 111Cracker Barrels 113Guest Appearances and Co-hosts 118Live Blogging and Cclogging 121Expeditions and Virtual Training Labs 126Multiple Venue Productions or Presentations 129Additional Resources 133Further Reading and Related Web Sites 133Ten Common Misconceptions About Synchronous Instruction 135Scheduling Synchronous Interaction 140Buyer's Guide: Questions to Ask When Considering a Synchronous Tool 143References 147Index 151