Dr. Ruth Reynard

Khal, I agree - they can be the board on the wall in a classroom or online via a chat or meeting software. Either way, this technology has the capability of capturing discussions and thought logic and then it can be distributed to the students for further thinking and discussion. Dr. Ruth Reynard

Elin, Yes, and capturing the interaction and thought processes are all excellent in support of the learning process...capture and distribute can totally change the process for students. Dr. Ruth Reynard

Khal, All good points! So, you have experienced that students are more engaged and also learn additional and transferrable skills while using new technology. This is all consistent with most instructors' experience. I would suggest, however, that those additional skills are maximized and but upon by adding value to them through the grading and feedback process. Most employers agree that those skills are what they look for even more than exact content knowledge. Dr. Ruth Reynard

Elin, I agree. The realization that students have direct access to the teacher raises the engagement possibilities with teacher and student. Also, the flexibility is important, as you say, and the capability for customization in design and pace. Dr. Ruth Reynard

Khal, Good points! Yes, the flexibility and direct connectedness are central characteristics that have benefitted instruction. So, too, is the customization that can now take place and the multilevel engagement and interactivity. If you conceptualize a web image rather than a linear outline, you will see even more possibilities in your instructional design and delivery. Dr. Ruth Reynard

Elin, Great points! So, accessing information as well as supporting the actual process of learning are core characteristics of how Internet technology can maximize learning experiences. Dr. Ruth Reynard

Penelope, This is a true observation. It has, however, also changed learning expectations and user skills - think through how these challenge things like instructor training, instructional design, and course delivery. Dr. Ruth Reynard

Penelope, Good points! I would guess you also like your learning to be "on point", efficient, and engaging so these impact the overall design and delivery as well. Dr. Ruth Reynard

Penelope, Very true ...how then, should instructional design and delivery adjust to accommodate this? How should assessment change? Dr. Ruth Reynard

Ty, Yes, and they mostly expect and anticipate the functions and features of new technology in every course: direct communication; collaboration; customization and production. Dr. Ruth Reynard