Evidence of Effectiveness:
In a survey of 16 professors, 93% responded that wizards helped to facilitate discussions. 97% of students in classes with wizards reported they felt "very comfortable" online, while 85% reported they felt "very comfortable" in classes without wizards. Another study found that classes with wizards cut the failure rate by 50%.
How does this practice relate to pillars?:
Learning effectiveness: Merlin, Mercy College's virtual campus, employs student tutors, known as "course wizards," to help novice online learners succeed in their courses. The wizards, who are students who are doing well in online courses, assist professors in many ways. They spend 10 hours a week in tutoring students, facilitating discussions, and finding resources. Wizards may also help students and professors with software. In many respects, wizards are like online teaching assistants. But they refrain from grading which could add tension to their relationships with other students. Acting as mentors and collaborators, wizards are expected to enhance Mercy's sense of online learning community.
Estimate the probable costs associated with this practice:
Low: Salary for student assistants who work 10 hours per week.
References, supporting documents:
Moran, L.& Myringer, B. (1999). Flexible learning and university change. In Harry, K. (Ed.), Higher Education through Open and Distance Learning (p. 57-71). New York: Routledge.
The Wizards Program at Mercy College, JALN paper
