Dr. Ruth Reynard

Edward, One suggestion would be to outline "level" or "tiered" research. First level: general information (Wikipedia could already be identified in this along with other information sources); second level: critical comparisons; third level: applied ideas. This teaches the various levels of research as well as helping student recognize the uses of different sources. I have added this to the Teachers Lounge forum I facilitate. Please respond there with additional comments or suggestions to this outline. Thanks! Dr. Ruth Reynard

Erik, I love your examples and your acronym! Please go to the faculty lounge and share these ideas in the instructional methods forum. Thank you for sharing. Dr. Ruth Reynard

Erik, Yes, the functionality to capture various inputs as well as distribute those are the strength of this technology. Dr. Ruth Reynard

Sarah, Yes, I agree. The immediacy and directness of the technology provides opportunity for students to be involved who might usually stay distant from the learning process. Good points! Dr. Ruth Reynard

Gerardo, Very true...so while one test cannot really capture the learning, using a variety of tools and methods can provide a more rounded picture of what has been learned. Dr. Ruth Reynard

Gerardo, Good points. The technology provides an opportunity for immediate interaction for sure. Dr. Ruth Reynard

Erik, Great examples! Yes, the technology now can support much more flexibility in design and engagement - instructors must, however, use the technology (that might sound obvious) and maximize its capabilities in their instructional designs. Dr. Ruth Reynard

Douglas, There are recent uses of the tablet in schools and colleges, however, I think with the larger-screened cell phones, students have still prefer phones....I know we're all watching these new iterations of phones to see which will be preferred in instruction. Dr. Ruth Reynard

Douglas, Great points! Yes, nomadic and increasingly mobile. Dr. Ruth Reynard

Gerardo, Yes, immediacy is a wonderful benefit of using new technology - this means, however, that the instructor and the instructional design should provide time and space for the tools to be used. The results of using the tools should also be valued as part of the overall grade. Dr. Ruth Reynard