It allows them the ability to problem solve and critically evaluate information. They can make connections among concepts as well. They can be good at working online as a team with these new technologies.
Erina ,
Great points! How have these also changed how you plan your instructional process?
Dr. Ruth Reynard
The use of new technology helps give students different options to accomplish their learning goals. For example, colloboration technologies, social networks, and VoIP have helped students share ideas and work more efficiently.
Beverly,
Yes, I like your approach here. Creativity is heightened as is customization and production. All of these are critical to professional success and should be maximized in the learning experience for our students.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
I feel that technology if utilized in the right fashion will force students to become more creative. The applications of technology give endless possibilities that students can use to develop work products. For example, my students needed to create a presentation of some sort to present to the class on the topic of their choice. I was amazed at the presentations that were turned in by my students. Some students presented wikis, some created a web page interface and others use the more conventional PowerPoint presentation but added tremendous amounts of animation and narration. Each presentation provided a glimpse of the technology employed. These students also had to do research prior to putting together the presentation. Technology definitely makes research easier and many sources that at one time where not accessible are not at the students’ fingertips. This greatly facilitate the learning.
I think students have had to learn how to digest multiple input vectors for learning. They don't just sit in a classroom and take notes from the instructor anymore. There's the textbook, of course, and other articles, but now they have videos and screen capture recordings to digest, as well as forum posts, wikis and blogs to read. Depending on the course subject they might even have to use Twitter or Facebook or some other social media in an assignment. All of these things broaden a student's learning skills because they come to understand that learning can come regardless of the medium.
Ruby,
Great response! Yes, research and analysis are vital skills now required for use and application of new technology. Networking and collaboration are also skills than can be quickly developed using new technology and skills that employers look for.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
Hello Dr. Reynard,
Types of new skills that the use of new technology develops in students today, in my opinion is, research and analysis. Like I said in a previous reply, learning on the Internet is fun. You can go from one link to another and before you know it you have some major information on the subject.
Thanks
Ruby W.
Tom,
Very good points. I agree that classes become highly interactive when students can explore ideas by searching supporting information and research while the class is taking place.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
Students are no longer passive recipients of what the instructor lectures. New technology enables students to participate in the learning, assessment, and course outcome processes. I have had students in my class who will google a question and answers instantly. A good example is the Wikipedia project which is both a learning and continuously changing and different people interact and add or subtract information. Learning becomes more applicable and context sensitive rather than memorization.
Fialishia,
So, we should also "value" these skills in assignment/project design and the distribution of the overall grade.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
Hi Chanel, yes - I think using technology definitely develops motor skills because students have to learn how to type and use a computer keyboard. I'm not sure I understand how it would help with sensory skills. Can you elaborate a little more?
Thanks,
Fialishia
Hi Alfred, yes - I agree. You stated, "New technology enables students to easily research information..".
Sometimes, I think that technology has made research too easy for students. While I would not give the Internet without a fight, I do remember when it was important to know how to use the public library; however, nowadays, students don't even use public library unless they are absolutely required.
In addition, the Internet has a wealth of valuable knowledge; however, there are lots of non-reliable sources of information. As a result, I require that my students include at least 2-3 good references with their research papers.
Fialishia O'Loughlin
IADT-Orlando
What types of new skills does the use of new technology develop in students?
With today's technology advancements, I believe that when students who use technology will definitely have a competitive advantage over others who don't. Students who use technology learn develop a variety of new & marketable skills, as follows:
* Online collaboration in a diverse environment
* Discipline & Self-Direction
* Team Building in a virtual classroom
* Improved grammar/spelling skills (over time)
* Research strategies & skills
* Organizational Skills
* How to market themselves for employment
* Multiple ways to learn (video, chat)
* How to work smarter/efficiently ---not harder
I'm sure there is a lot that I can add to the list. However, these are some of the key skills that students learn with the use of technology --especially those that are in a blended or online classroom environment.
Fialishia O'Loughlin
IADT-Orlando
Michael ,
Yes, Information Literacy is high on the list and working with librarians can help this process a lot.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
My sense is that students research skills are enhanced when they learn to use the internet and digital libraries effectively. They have to think about the search terms they use and sometimes be creative in accessing information.
Dana,
So,a course's instructional design should be adaptable to integrate new skills as they are demonstrated rather than predetermining all skills ahead of time. Do you agree?
Dr. Ruth Reynard
Technology can be used to develop new skills. I believe it could actually improve existing skills as well because it would require the use of enhanced communication processes, thought processes, and demonstrative issues. Once a technology is implimentedand mastered that it's quite possible that the individual can then apply many of the techniques that were used when goalsetting,and other areas.
Natalie,
Good observations. The ability to find information directly does raise the confidence level of students. Similarly, as students can make adjustments and customize their learning environment, they become more invested in the process.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
anthony,
Very true...learner autonomy is one of the best skills we can help our students achieve.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
