What if no video is available?
I can see where a video clip could help an instructor introduce himself/herself to the students. But what would be second best? What if that technology is not available in the online environment at present?
Brian,
This is terrific. Keep up the great work!
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
We also don;t have video capabilities. I found that posting my background information is helpful. I also spend a few minutes at the beginning of the first chat highlighting my background and professional credentials in an attempt to assure the students I am a strong instructor. I promise 24 hour turnaround for questions but regularly respond within 6-8 hours. The students love this extra attention.
Nancy,
Very good solution. Thank you for sharing.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Hello,
Sometime it is not possible to post a video directly to the classroom. In these case what I tend to do is create a video using Jing, YouTube, etc and then post a link to the video. I am also sure to post the video in the chat area as well. Doing this along with including the link ensures that all of the students are able to view the video in at least one form.
Thank you,
Nancy
Here is an idea I had not thought of...but it certainly could be done. It could make me a STAR! I wonder if they give Oscars for such presentations? Seriously, I can see where such a presentation could be the kind of dynamic addition to a classroom that would be very positive. Thanks for the idea.
James,
This is being used by many online instructors for lectures, as well.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
This is an excellent thought about using Youtube for an introduction. One advantage to that is that you do have complete control of the content you put into the presentation. Thus you can be sure you say all the things you must say relative to objectives, university-driven information, etc. This is important to do well and a controlled environment, such as this, would give a place where this can be done. Good point.
Great idea Leah. A web page can also be used this way - my bio has a link to my web page where students can familiarize themselves with me and my work more extensively.
James,
That seems to be the concensus of many.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Yes, that is what we use. A little text and a photo. It seems to work pretty well as far as I can see. Probably students appreciate knowing what an instructor looks like...to be able to link a face to the voice. It's a nice personal touch.
James,
You are so very correct. The IP laws are still trying to catch up to the technology usage. Nevrtheless, there are plenty of regulations to which we need to adhere so we are being fair to authors and media creators. It is also good for modeling professionalism to our students. Excellent point. Thank you for sharing.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
It seems at our place there is more and more access all the time to various video and photo technology. I'm glad to see it. It means learning new strategies and inserting new material, but I think it is helpful. One thing we always have to do is to be sure we clear this in terms of "legal use" of the material. Is this a problem elsewhere?
James,
Excellent. If it works, keep on using it. ;-]
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
Yes, this is what we use at my school and so far my photo has not frightened students away!!! As far as I know! haha
Leah,
Very good alternative. Some LMSs are locked down to eliminate this "external access" use in order to maintain "control of content" within the learning environment, but most will allow it.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
If I cannot embed a video directly into the course I host it elsewhere, such as youtube. I have a brief introduction video I host on you tube with the private video feature, then I can just post a link in my bio and students can go and check it out.
James,
A short, text-based biography and a photo are often well accepted by students.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
