Madhuchanda,
Good post. Expectations are the framework of everything else.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Christopher,
What about the student. How should I consider the student?
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Here is my list:
1. Ease of use.
2. Usefulness in achieving course outcomes.
3. Usefulness in stimulating student engagement.
Ted Framan
Hi Patricia and Jim,
I have had the opportunity to try different technology tools given certain scenarios. From custom Videoconferencing systems to Skype based communications. Sometimes you do not have a choice of the technology because it is part of the package. In that case the way to be comfortable with it is to get to know it intimately. Right now I am excited because I have been given the opportunity to upgrade a classroom with a technological editing system in place. That will give me a bit of latitude to work on the class offerings.
Dr. Ed Goold
1) Set clear expectations. Since there is no face to face contact, these need to be communicated clearly.
2) The technology tools should be compatible to all systems. Students have different kinds of computers (brands, operating systems,etc.).
3) The instructor needs to be comfortable using the tools too!
The three mosts important thnigs to consider would be the student, the material to present and what the instructor is comforatable with utilizing.
John,
Great Post! You are right, not only do you have to be able to use it; you may have to trouble shoot it also. Yes, students don't always have the up-to-date technology; some don't have their own technology.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Dr. Thomas,
How you would "over use" technology? Please explain
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Juliet,
Greatpost! It is load with amens for me! Everyone has to know how to use it or it becomes a barrier.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Juliet,
You are right. They need to know that learning this tool will help them succeed in the course. I do think you have to encourage them to explore new technology. I have too many ask if they can just talk to me on the phone and not have to deal with this technology "stuff". That's not the right approach either.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Greetings.
The top three considerations in selection are...
1. Do they match with the best tools for the objective that is being taught? In other words what is needed to aid in the transference of the information in the best manner.
2. Does the student have the proper equipment to use the tools selected. Many students may not have the most up to date hardware or web connections.
3. Am I comfortable in using the tool to make sure it is effective in achieving the class goal. Using many tools that I am minimally good at is not a good idea.
The above steps will help get us off in a good direction, but must be evaluated and modified as needed based on our experiences with and feedback from the students.
Be awesome.
John
I would hope first that you would test your specific technology that it works in the course. Not over use the technology and make sure the technology will enhance the learning.
1.Tools that make sense for the course you are teaching-Don't be frivolous!
2. Tools that are usable for the student-If they cant use them, they will not be involved.
3. Tools that I am comfortable using as well-I cant help if I am clueless!
Charlene,
Yes, you have to think about the student with the "lowest" set of skill set and/or technology availability. Good post.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Jennifer,
Great post! Yes, you need to know what resources you have and what you may have to create. I agree, you don't want the technology to be a barrier.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
I think that making the students feel comfortable with a technology is very important. They want to know it is a useful tool, not being used frivolously. Older students are daunted by the use of technology as it was not originally a tool in their toolbox, so helping them see the benefit will engage them overall.
Being able to communicate effectively in the online environment can be difficult at times. Not all parties (student and instructor) may have the same level of abilities to navigate the system. It is important that all parties be trained in the specific tools that will be used during the course. The tools have to promote and support respectful communications between the students and the instructor. Whether it is a WebEx or a PowerPoint or a posting on a discussion board, we have to be able to get the material across to the students and still maintain the integrity of the program.
There are three important questions instructors should consider when using technology tools in a virtual learning environment. The questions to consider include:
1) What resources and/or tutorials have I provided to help students use the technology tools?
You never want to assume that students automatically know how to use the technology tools you provide. I use screen capturing programs to create step by step video tutorials on how to use the technology I incorporate into my classroom.
2) Do the resources I have provided to help students use technology tools in the virtual learning environment appeal to diverse learning styles?
In addition to posting video tutorials, I also create step by step written instructions with screenshots. Some students prefer written instructions and images over video content.
3) Do the technology tools create more frustration for students than they are worth?
If technology is too complicated to use and causes more stress for students, they are not worth the trouble. You want technology to help students achieve their learning goals-- not impede or disrupt the learning process.
Colleen,
Great answer. I think you are right about each item and its rank.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
I believe the 3 most important things to consider are:
1) the function of the tool
2) the learning outcomes
3) alignment of the tool with the instructor's teaching style
