Sherrilyn,
You make a great point; particularly about the making sure it works on students' machines. I do give computer checkup assignment periodically to make sure students are keeping their computers "in shape" to use the different tools. This is part of the expectations of the course.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Leigh,
I agree with you. I also use videos and tutorials to help students "see" what they need to do.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
When using technology tools in a virtual learning environment, I believe the first important thing to consider is accessibility. Will my students be able to access the information I am presenting? Will those who have an impairment (such as vision or hearing) have an adequate learning experience? The second important thing to consider is appropriateness. How effective will the technology tool be in helping my students grasp the material they are to master? The third important thing to consider is clarity. Will my students understand what is expected of them as they encounter each assignment or activity? I think a fourth and final thing to consider is stimulation. Are my students being engaged in a fun and interactive way?
As stated earlier
Facilitating good communication and learning through ease of use from the end user perspective
Security and operability
Academic freedom
The three most important features I believe that should be considered in a virtual learning environment are:
1) Ease of use for the instructor and students. If the software is difficult to navigate or understand, the tool will not be used or the end-users' frustration will overshadow the effectiveness of the course.
2) Operability and security-where does the tool reside? Behind my university's firewall on a local system or at the vendor's chosen site? If the tool resides at another site, what is the liability if the tool is compromised, what is the notification process, and response time to repair? What are the additional costs associated with the tool?
3) How well does the virtual tool work with other tools? Can I blend the technology to make it transparent and how well does the tool run on the different platforms-Apple, PC, Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari, etc.
In my opinion a virtual tool is like buying a house, the initial sight line-decorations, colors, etc. may be very pleasing to the eye; but, I want to know what is behind the walls and the expense I will be confronted with in the future.
The three most important things to consider when using technology tools in an online environment are platform, students, and outcomes. Whether the platform is a brick and mortar classroom with a simple overhead projector or a virtual classroom, the environment the class is based in often dictates what types of technologies can be integrated. Only those practical for the platform should be attempted. Student need is another important consideration, as well as student ability. Although many students can profitably integrate with most technologies, not every fit is perfect. Technologies need to be matched to student level and good instructors employ a variety of backup plans in case the chosen technology proves ineffective. Finally, technology must serve the outcomes targeted in the class. Outcome based education dictates that all classroom decisions be based on what best leads the students to the desired outcomes. Technology is a path that can strengthen outcome realization, or derail it.
When using technology tools in a virtual learning environment, what do you believe are the three most important things to consider?
1. Learning curve
2. Ease of student use
3. Connection to subject matter
Jan,
You make a great point. We do have to determine barriers. I find it amazing how many students take online courses with NO computer. Now that is a barrier!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Jan,
You are right, comfort and ease for both students and instructor are important. It should also match your objectives
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
I believe the three most important things to remember when using technology tools are:
1. The tool fits the task. Make sure the tool one uses does what it is supposed to do. If you are using the tool incorrectly, it won't work. Much like using a phillips head screw driver for a flat head screw.
2. Make sure the student and instructor know how to use the tool. Without proper knowledge of the tool's functions, capabilities, and accessability, it becomes useless.
3. Constantly evaluate the tool. If it isn't working, change it or use it a different way. If the students are not getting it, even if the instructor does, than this is an instructor issue that needs to be changed. The instructor needs to be able to change tools, use them differently, or know when not to use them to be effective.
my thoughts on the three most important things to consider when using technology tools in a virtual learning environment are (not in specific order):
1. reliability of the tools, especially when using them during live chats.
2. ease and comfort of that tech. tool to both instructor and student.
3. and to ask, " would this enhance the course for the students and for their learning?" hopefully the answer would be "yes"
When it comes to technology tools, I believe they should be user friendly meaning that they are easy to learn and implement, I also think that there should be a readily available "user guide" to promote increased user comfort and finally, I believe that technology should make the experience better rather than making it tougher.
For example, if a CHAT session is required, I feel that both the moderator and the student should be able to "CHAT" - hearing voices and not having to spend your time trying to type can improve participation.
Susan Miedzianowski
The 3 most important things to consider when using technology in an online learning environment, in my opinion are:
1.What am I trying to convey to the student and what tool will ensure that the necessary function of the assignment are being met.
2.Ensure that all students are able to access any tool which may be used for the assignment. This includes making sure that any tool works on each student’s computer or that each student has the equipment needed to utilize the tools successfully.
3.Ensure that I as a professor understand how the technology should be used to guarantee that I can be an asset to the student.
The first three 'items of importance' that come to mind are: 1. appropriateness of the technology to the task, 2. ease of use for the instructor and student, and 3. clarity, and usefulness of the technology in conveying the appropriate information/task to the student.
In the first case, technology does not help us if we are not applying it correctly. Just as we should not choose a screw-driver when we need a hammer, we should not choose a pod-recording when we want a discussion.
In the second example, the technology must function correctly and must be easy for both the instructor and student to use. If it is not easy to use, neither party will make the best use of it. If students do not use the tool correctly, they may not learn or engage in the material as needed.
Finally, even if a tool is appropriate, and relatively easy to use, it must still convey information correctly and appropriately to the student. For example, it is must wiser to "show" someone how to use certain computer programs than it is to give them a 10 page written description of where to move the mouse, and where to "click". Conveying information succinctly and clearly, and in a means that is accessible is always necessary.
In my opinions, the three most important things to consider are:
1. Are the technology tools suitable for the students? Will the students run into any barriers when using the tools? Are the tools user friendly? If students are struggling with the tools, then the tools will not work.
2. Do the technology tools help student meet the objectives of the course? Fancy technology is nice to have, but if they do not help students to achieve their learning objectives, then we are missing the mark.
3. Do the technology tools fit the instructor's teaching style? If an instructor is not comfortable with the tools, he or she will not be using them to their full potential.
I believe the top three things to consider are:
1. Will the student be ble to use the selected technology with ease?
2. Will the technology tools being used assist the learners to achieve the learning outcomes planned for the course?
3. Do the technology tools being used match the instructor's teaching style?
Ron,
It is true, that we assume that students know the technology. You have to make sure that everyone is on the "right" page. It is true that you have to be the tech person at least the first response! Good post.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
First and foremost is the students ability to use the technology tool chosen. If a student in my class can't use a tool, then it's of no worth to them or to me as an instructor.
Second, student knowledge of how to use the tool. When I first started teaching online, I assumed that my students were given instruction on how to use all of the online environments provided, but this was not the case. So, with each new class, I now make sure that all of the students know how to use the tools provided.
Third, I need to be sure that I understand the tools that are available. It makes no sense to use a tool that is outdated, or slower, or such. I should choose a tool that is up-to-date and user friendly. One that benefits my students as learners and myself as a facilitator.
Harry,
You just made a great point; cross platform reliability. Java and Flash can be such a pain for the student and for the instructor!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Peter,
I Love your post! I too like to use technology that they can use in the workplace. I think we do overlook the technology skill transference that can happen if we let students think about it! I have quit telling students what technology to use, I want them to figure out how to get a job done and they determine the best way to do it. (This does go against my need to control) :)
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
