Technology
My question and what I have run into with my students is that many of my students don't have a grasp of technology and they aren't able to adapt. They have problems with submitting assignments, etc. and this seems to really hinder their learning that should be taking place.
What have people don't to overcome this?
Agnes,
Once students get passed the fear of breaking their computer.....they tend to want to expand their knowledge.
Shelly Crider
I have discovered there are a lot of older students who are eager to learn and embrace the technology. It is something about having a strong work ethic and dedication.
Of course, there are exceptions, but I found older students' dedication and open mind for technology quite impressive.
Dr. Francis,
Very good point. We need to have the older generation feel this is something they can do as technology will not be going away.
Shelly Crider
Remember, majority of online students are adults who are not comfortable with technologies, and most are afraid to get involved. Unfortunately, knowledge use of technology is essential for a successful completion of online degree program. The younger generation of our students are very comfortable with technologies, and are even more advanced than majority of our faculty members.
Heather,
Students want to go to the first person that will help them and that is their instructor.
Shelly Crider
Nicholas ,
I have not used Screenflow but I hear that is really worthwhile.....I think I will give that a whirl very soon!
Shelly Crider
I've also run into this especially in the online environment. I find that when a student encounters a technical issue, sometimes that is the straw that breaks the camels back, that's the excuse for not completing the assignment. I think videos and tutorials are great, but I also make sure to be available during a window most days of the week for the students to send an email outlining the technical issues. I require the student to participate in some troubleshooting of their own first, the email must outline what SPECIFICALLY is the issue (a complaint of "It didn't work" won't cut it), what they have already tried to address the issue, what resources they've used, and what the outcome was. I also have them send screenshots of any error messages or unfamiliar screens. This is especially helpful when teaching software classes.
We live in a fast paced world of technology, I've found that involving the student in the troubleshooting process better prepares them for real world.
Posting precise "how to" videos is definitely a must. There is a very good program called Screenflow that allows you to record exact video from your computer screen. You can also add in audio and even edit the videos before posting them. It sounds a little daunting at first but it's actually a very intuitive program and WELL worth the effort.
Ashley,
Post interactive powerpoints on just how to do this or create a video and load it into your class or YouTube.
Shelly Crider
Hi Ashley,
One technique that I have done whenever teaching an online course is to create videos and place them on youtube for my students. I walk them through the classroom and I may have another on where to submit your assignments and maybe another on the simplest of tasks. I post these links on the announcement boards for my students. First... I'm not calling anyone out for not posting correctly and their ego and self-efficacy remains in tact. I use a program called Snag-it to record my videos and it's such an easy thing to do. We take technology for granted because we use it everyday. By providing extra videos - tends to take the pressures off of my students.
