Get Your Students Hired
What types of new skills does the use of new technology develop in students?
Donald,
It really does depend on the question, I agree. This is a great way to increase critical thinking in students.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
I can only answer this question in regards to my own learning. There is this thing called the internet. It is for me my source of all learning. I merely ask a question, and the internet gives me an answer. When the internet gives me an answer that I am not happy with, I ask the question in a different way, and I obtain a different answer.
I am really using a technique called crowd sourcing. I am taking advantage of the knowledge of millions of people to increase my own learning. What I have learned is ask questions. The answers are out there. I believe that others are employing the same skills that I have learned, and in my opinion, asking questions is the most important skill to be learned.
Donald L. Buresh
Theresa,
I agree that certain skills are developed by using new technology - I also think these skills should be valued in a course and rewarded as part of the grade distribution.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
I have found that using more technology helps develop research and problem solving skills in my students. As we know- no technology is perfect. Each time I start a term I run into technology problems with my students. It can be a learning experience for them, though, learning to make sure that they can update software on their computer to make sure our resources work. They also get to practice researching on the internet how to solve common problems, or follow directions on how to solve these problems.
Although it is often seen as a headache, learning new pieces of software is actually a very versatile and real life skill. Most everyone has to learn new problems and learn to answer their own questions once they transition to the workplace.
Best,
Brian Stout
The type of technology that the student is learning from is how new skills are developed.
Cutting edge skills that can be used in the workforce. This can be in job production or research oriented skills.
Problem solving and critical thinking skills are both valuable and developed using new technology. New technology naturally brings challenges in figuring out how to use the new technology, which can be a useful exercise for students in itself. Not all students thrive in that environment, but it is valuable regardless!
The assignments should encourage a wide spectrum of methods of interaction - this helps keep students interested and gives students more options to find media that work with their learning style.
The methods of evaluation need to be tailored to be appropriate as well. I often will try email, text, call, and online meeting to find the best way to interact with students who need assistance. It takes flexibility on the part of the instructor.
Our lives are completely integrated with Technology now a days. Cell phones, computers televisions,video games, meaningless items as it relates to learning and development, I think not! In fact through the utilization of these tools many skills can be further developed and fine tuned. For instance, manual dexterity, hand eye coordination, learning to relax in stressful situations. How can this be better incorporated in all learning activities?
Suzanne,
Technology can also "intimidate" younger students as well, so no assumptions should be made for any student. Once the students become more familiar with the technology, the confidence can heighten for sure, which is important.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
For many older students, confidence in their ability to learn new things is the most important outcome of using new technologies. Skills include the ability ascertain one's learning style by experimentation and increased networking via classroom chats, etc.
Identifying and advising students at risk from deficient study skills; a computer-based package for departments
Personalized Advice on Study Skills containing three pieces of software: Questionnaire, Student- View and advisor-view.
LS
Cynthia,
I agree - the additional skills also are valuable beyond the course and will benefit students in ongoing learning and professional employment.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
The use of new technology can provide an opportunity for a group learning community to be used for interaction between students to enhance collaboration in a group setting along with the new skill acquired for the application. The more experienced students using technology will be able to assist others in the learning and can also enhance their own level of expertise. This provides for instruction at the multiple levels usually needed for classes today.
Coleen,
Yes, looking at sources for any article or information source can be a great way to expand research scope.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
Coleen,
I agree - our guidance is crucial for students so that they can learn to identify credible information and disregard information that is not legitimate to the subject area.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
Well stated, Joe!
I wrote something similar in the fact that beginning students need to be aware that Wikipedia is not a reputable site because anyone can add or change information there. However, references listed at the bottom of these sites may have good information. It is up to the student to learn the difference between what is reputable as opposed to biased information, with us aiding as a coach. :)