Technology
The use of multi types of technology is a great way for making a well made online course. I try to promote various appropriate technologies in my online courses. In a study, technology was noted as an essential element in supporting the mobile learning needs of medical students (Han, Nelson, & Wetter, 2014).

Reference
Han, H., Nelson, E., & Wetter, N. (2014). Medical students' online learning technology needs.
Clin Teach. 11(1):15-9.
Karen,
What a great point! Students will do the same thing. We talk about consistency in communication; it is also important in the technology area.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Also, I know from my experience that when I am trying to learn how to use a technology tool, I will get bogged down in trying to figure out how to do it! Then, the focus of the learning content is diluted. I will learn less when I have other tasks to be completed while I am attempting to learn the content.
cynthia,
Interesting comment. Yes, they should match the learning styles without us forcing it. I find we sometimes try to make things fit when they don't.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Lisa,
I agree it is critical to match the technology used to learning styles. Many times it could be the most basic form of technology that fits the objective! Then again, the 'latest and greatest' might be the only solution!
Thanks,
Cynthia
krystal,
We really haven't mentioned ADA issues much but is must be addressed. Technology can really make a difference in learning for learners for both f2f and online. We do have to think about ADA and universal design.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
I also agree that different learning styles help students. There are many different types of students in today's online platform. With ADA students, working students, etc. you can look at the different types of technology out there and assist them within the same classroom. This way we may learn differently, but the same information.
Bill,
Great point! The multimedia must be a part of the content. Students will see through "busy work"
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Jim,
It is true but students have to use it. Its like reading the text!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
I think the use of multi-technology is important for a successful online program as long as the technology does not interfere with course progress. I have seen courses where the facilitator tries to introduce multiple technology portions of the program and that becomes the learning focus of the course
With todays multiple learning styles, multi-media is a real asset
Lisa,
I agree with your post. I would also encourage students to make sure they look at other ways of learning so they can glean information from many different sources. It will make them better learners. Technology can provide so many different ways to provide great learning experiences.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
One of the most important aspects of being an instructor is to learn what the learning styles are for each student. Then make sure your classroom allows each student to learn the same information in the best way they can. To do this, various forms of technology can be used. Some students like hands on where they are asked to go into a discussion and add their input. Others like to visualize information on a power point. Some like to listen and it is important to have an audio choice.
Matthew,
Great post! You have very good strategies that coincide with good course design. Live chats are difficult as most students don't attend if there is not worth points.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
I have taught online for a few different universities, and I have found that using multiple types of technologies do really help. They help for a number of reasons. First, I find that the more areas you list information, the more likely the students will see it. This can range from placing an assignment list on a blog, homepage, and email; moreover, this also approach works well with informational course content (such as lessons).
Likewise, at one of the university I teach at, they have require weekly "live chats." However, I know that not every student, as much as a encourage them, will not watch these recorded chats. With this in mind, I will also post important points from the chat as an announcement on our homepage as well as reiterate the importance of asking me questions, via email.
Lisa,
How would you do that? You will need to share more within the forum.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
I agree that variety of multimedia components need to be inserted for a compelling course.
Great point. Thank you so much.
Heidi
Heidi,
Great addition of the reference. It is important to understand learn the effectiveness of technology through research. Mobile learning will not be going away anytime soon.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
