Susan,
For the subject matter you teach one would believe that you have to stay current on all digital media technology. You finding a positive way for them to use the cell phones is great. I am curious to know the pros and cons for teaching college students vs. k-12 students if any at all.
Antoine Lewis
As a digital media teacher for middle school, high school and college, I utilize many different types of technology in the classroom We work as editors using Final Cut pro and Adobe Premiere software, digital cameras and sound equipment. I also try to utilize the Internet and cellphones as tools whenever possible, I find this especially helpful with my younger students. Cellphones keep students engaged and involved in a world they know a lot about.
Kiofa,
Often times the preparation to teach a class is more difficult that teaching the course itself. I do hope the student appreciate the extra effort to help them learn the material.
Antoine Lewis
Denise,
With YouTube you have to do your research as many reputable faculty or recording lectures/presentations online.
Antoine Lewis
Denise,
Even with classroom technology a lecture and/or classroom discussion is necessary but it does not have to be the entire class as that is what many experience in the past.
Antoine Lewis
I use youtube.com when the proper resources are available in my classroom to do so (projector, sound, etc). I used to movie "something the lord made" to help students understand the function of the cardiovascular system and they really seemed to enjoy it.
I have also started to create flashcards via Engrade to help students prepare for each exam. Its a little extra work but they seem to appreciate it.
Using you tube is a great idea but the challenge I have found with this is the validity of the information?! So I do not use it to introduce theory but I will use it for an icebreaker or as great comedic relief in class...a good chuckle is helpful to break up the monotony-especially when you can flip it to pertain to the topic at hand. I find that many times you must be skeptical of the sources of information here just as you are when using internet sources...not all information is good information and you have to be careful in this area.
If anyone has any suggestions for me, please my mind and ears are open. Thanks.
I still believe there is nothing like a good intense lecture and classroom discussion however I do enjoy using technology that allows the students the opportunity to be focused on one thought or theory at a time such as projectors, powerpoint presentations, overhead projectors, etc. I call it thinking, learning and instructing cohesively...lol.
Before I even address the techniques I am going to use to instruct and facilitate this class I ask questions of the students in getting to know them on the first day of class. This questioning allows me the privilege of understanding how technology savvy they are and what I will use in class and outside of class to nurture their eager minds. So before I approach the class with what I like to use I try and develop a compromise with what I find effective and what they need to be successful in the classroom.
Jacqueline ,
Using videos and PowerPoint to compliment the textbook helps students and having their computers in class is a benefit especially if you have no projector. This is a great way to keep the students engage and learn the material.
Antoine Lewis
Deb,
These are all great options and use of classroom technology. Students do not often take advantage of the other options that help with their learning style unless we present it to them and show how it is a benefit.
Antoine Lewis
I primarily teach lecture based classes and so I find that Power Point presentations are beneficial. For the most part they help me present a strong visual in an organized manner without inundating my students with text. I also access the internet whenever needed in order to find a pertinent example. Another great site I tend to use is the Public Broadcasting Station website which will have documentaries or small videos with relevant information. All of my students are typically equipped with their own computers, making it easier to access information in a timely manner.
Courses in Microsoft Office Applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access)and the math book include online resources through the publisher of the textbooks. These resources include demonstration videos, availability to get hints that walk students step by step through the "how to" of the chapter or a problem. Our psychology book has additional video resources and simulations available for students. All of these provide additional support for students.
For math and psychology classes, I teach in a classroom that has a smart board. This allows me to save all notes and sample problems in PowerPoint format. I can then make those notes available electronically to students. Those who are absent can then still access sample problems covered in class. Having notes electronically also make it more efficient to conduct a quick review at the beginning of class and/or before a quiz or test.
Students also really enjoy having online access to the gradebook for the course. This allows them to know where they stand at any point and can also serve as a reminder of when assignments are due.
William,
Finding reputable classroom technology related to the subject matter teaching the class session can be time consuming. It is important to have a reliable way of archiving the material. Lastly we as faculty do not take advantage of course references and media already provided as I am guilty.
Antoine Lewis
Currently I use PowerPoint, YouTube, databases, topic games (jeopardy) and Engrade. I need to become more informed about available course references and media. I find it takes me hours to review potential useful videos or teachng tools. William M Austin DC
Nicole,
I can understand that a payroll course would not be an attention getter. I like to often use case studies and have one student be the customer and one be the accountant and then switch roles getting them to understand the importance of what they should be looking for in certain situations along with the videos you mentioned could help with engagement.
Antoine Lewis
I am currently teaching a Payroll Accounting course. I had taught College Math in the past. I was able to integrate a larger variety of technology into my Math course than I am able to in my Payroll course. In the past, I was able to use unique things like the movie the "Princess Bride" to describe probability. So far for the Payroll course, I have only been able to find short videos describing some of the laws but have not have much success otherwise. Payroll in general, is not an attention getting course. I would like to find other sources of technology that can help.
Elizabeth,
PowerPoint is a good tool along with reputable videos. It becomes a good mixer with lecturing. As faculty finding that balance between our students hearing, seeing and doing is very important.
Antoine Lewis
I currently only use PowerPoint in my classes. I have been finding some interesting videos on You Tube that have been helpful in teaching the students the subject.They actually enjoy watching the videos and provides them a break from just lecture and PowerPoint.
Audrey,
When you can provide visual aid to your content it always helps in better understanding the material. I feel with most students using visual aid will reading or speaking is best and benefits the audience (students).
Antoine Lewis
Audrey,
I agree that animation and/or simulations make the learning experience better for students. In my experience I feel this most help the students who are bored in class or with a certain subject matter as it increases participation.
Antoine Lewis
