Dr. Crews,
When accessing the use of technology communication tools in a virtual learning environment, I believe that these tools should incorporate the following criteria:
1. Ease of accessibility and usability in order to insure that all students know where to locate the tool and how to use it.
2. Presence of the desired functionality to make sure that the learning outcome is achievable.
3. Ease of access to technical support in case students have additional questions.
Miriam, I agree with you post. Instructor friendliness is a crucial component when a new technology is introduced to an online environment. If instructors are having a difficult time navigating through the technology, students will most likely have a difficult time with it as well. :-)
I believe that students should be able to successfully navigate the technology. If they are unable to do so, students will have many more problems/issues throughout the course. Online programs should have a through and mandatory training for students to practice navigating the classroom (not just a video here and there for them).
Technical support is crucial. Oftentimes, even when the technology is working correctly, students get lost and have a hard time working through because, for example, they may not understand how to turn on pop-up blockers (or turn them off). Sometimes even the most technologically advance student can be lost.
Finally, I think that ease of use is crucial. When we went to the new platform, even I had issues understanding it (and so did many of my students).
Hi Stephanie!
Cost is very important! In one of my courses, the students had to take an online assessment test. When finished, the student was asked to provide credit card information and purchase the results. With the price of tuition and books, this was a major ordeal for most students.
Jackie
Sandy and Sandy,
Affordability is a very good point to make. We have to make sure students can access the information, course content, assignments, etc. and affordability may play a very key role. Thanks!
Sandy ,
Excellent list. These all support the students and the learning process.
Nice job!
Stacy, You make an excellent point about the tools being affordable. I often work with students who don't have the technology to effectively use the tools. A hardware/software requirement list can assist students in evaluating and prioritizing their upfront costs. At the very least students need to clearly understand the technology needed to work in the virtual environment.
Sandy U.
Hi Everyone!
1. Ease of access and usability - even students who are tech savvy need to be able to understand and feel comfortable navigating the virtual classroom. Using technology that is similar to what is currently being used will help students focus on learning and not working through the technology
2. 24/7 tech support - should things go wrong, and there are always some bugs to be worked out, students and faculty need easy and prompt access to tech support
3. Ensure that instructors have or know the view and process that students are working with. Instructors will then be able to assist students with basic questions and tech issues.
Sandy U.
Stephanie,
Communication, and clear communication in particular, cannot be emphasized enough. Thanks for continuing to explain from your point of view.
I think most of my ideas have been covered already, but I think the three most important things to consider are:
1. Is it easy to use? This needs to be true for both instructor and student. Students in an online classroom can get scared away by hard to use communication tools so we need to keep it easy and simple.
2. Does it foster clear communication? I want to make sure to use tools which are going to allow for clear communication from me and to me. The more a message can get jumbled up in delivery, the harder it becomes to have effective communication.
3. Is it going to cost me or the student? This really does not need an explanation but students are not going to welcome a communication tool they have to pay for and vice versa.
Jacinda,
Good list. We have to know where the students are coming from and how to get them to where we want them to be. Technology can help this process. Nice job.
Hi Tena and All!
I believe that the three most important things to consider are skill level of the student, student access to technology and available technical support. Students who do not have access to appropriate technology may not be able to utilize certain technology communication tools. I think that it is also important for the faculty member to conduct a student orientation for the use of the communication tool with specific instructions. This can increase understanding and enhance the learning process. Finally, it is very important to have available technical support to assist both students and faculty in tool implementation. This would ensure that problems with these tools are handled efficiently and do not hinder the learning process.
This module discussed phone conversations with students. Do you think that it is important to call each student as a means of introduction initally? For those of you who do this, do you find it helpful?
Thanks,
Jacinda
Jacqueline,
The tools are so important to help us do all that you have listed. We have to work to make sure students can navigate well and "get the job done!" Thanks!
The three important things for me are as follows:
1. Will the tool engage and motivate students?
2. Does the tool aid in the organization, structure and delivery of material?
3. Does it help facilitate discussion?
The above are important because this will ensure that course outcomes are met.
Jackie
Nicholas,
This emphasized the importance of communication and students being able to access everything they need to learn and achieve the learning outcomes. Nice job.
Hello, I think the following are the most important aspects of communication tools in the virtual classroom.
1. Is useful and beneficial in fostering communication.
2. Easy to use, understand, and get get support with.
3. Is easily accessible by all with limited requirements for use.
Miriam,
Having tools that are available to everyone and making sure they do what they are supposed to do is essential. Thanks for your input in this forum.
1. Is the tool user friendly?
2. Is the tool instructor friendly?
3. Is it adequate?
I feel that user friendly technology is very important because not only are you expecting students and instructors to work with subject material you are now introducing the technological component. In addition, you want a communication tool that can be used effectively to convey the class message.
rebecca,
Yes, I love your comment about matching the content to the context. Technology can be used to more effectively get the content across in a well-planned manner. Thanks!
gene ,
A person of few words, but you hit the nail on the head. Concise, effective communication will take you a long way in an online course. Thanks!
