Michelle,
Wow, what a great post. We are more comfortable when you know they have the software and can use it. I commend you for making learning objects that will help students learn the technology
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Roxanne,
How do you determine the next technology to use?
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Wenda,
Wow, I think it is interesting that your friend has a film background. It is so great when faculty are willing to share experiences and knowledge.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Dawn,
I think you are just pointing to ACTIVE, ACTIVE, ACTIVE! No passive language for you. Great job!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Laura,
You are right! If the technology doesn't work, it makes the instructor look incompetent.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Dawn,
Ebooks can offer some interesting application by notating and other built-in functions that can really teach students how do "read" for understanding.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Dawn,
You are right! Students are the focal point of decisions we make regarding technology.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
When using technology tools in the online classroom I think it’s important to consider:
1. That all students (and me) can access/use the technology. For example, in my school all students are sent Microsoft software. I think this is great, because when I say all work needs to be in Word, I know that they all have the tool. If I’m not absolutely sure not all my students can access something, then that would be a huge factor in my decision.
2. That there are resources available to help students with the technology. I want to know students can find information (or I can make information easily available to them) about the tool. There may be resources on campus, or resources on the web. I don’t want to throw my students a technology tool which will confuse and frustrate them, especially if the goal of using the tool was to accomplish something beyond mastering to tool itself.
3. I also consider what type of learners the tool is going to benefit. For example, I make a short video that shows students how to access our live online class chats, but I also post step by step directions in text because I know that the video isn’t going to be helpful for everyone. I try to keep this question is my head when preparing my live chats and making use of the technology like PowerPoint, white boards, etc. Who am I missing and what tool can I use to reach ‘em?
The Student
The Content
Varied and interesting methods of content delivery
- Does it satisfy the function/ objective you are using it for?
- Does it fit into my teaching style and what type of learning style does it help?
- Is it the best tool for the job or is there something better?
I have a friend who is great with technology. Her film background has helped her connect with her students. I see all she does in her f2f class and the amount of technology she uses amazes me.
I am not a film student, but I do like the help technology can bring to a classroom. This course has encouraged me to find new ways to use technology to help my students learn, grow and retain their course information.
1. The students are engaged in active student centered learning
2. Faculty are using the tools to engage and motivate all types of learners
3. The absorption of material is happening, not copying but processing.
When using technology in the virtual classroom, I think one of the most important things is that it needs to work! I cannot think of anything more frustrating than having to waste time trying to get a program, tool, or device to do what it has been advertized to do. Ease of use is a close second. Again, it is a time issue. If folks are taking an online course, more than likely time is a huge consideration. No one likes wasting their time trying to figure out how something works when there are a million other tasks to be accomplished. Another top consideration is utility. If the tool does not add to the learning experience then it becomes clutter and detracts from the overall course experience.
That is great Cynthia. We recently have had access to this format of e-books. I have yet to explore all its capabilities but will certainly try some of the things you describe. Thanks for the tips.
-Dawn DiPeri
When using technology tools in a virtual learning environment, what do you believe are the three most important things to consider?
1. The tools aid in the learning process.
2. The tools aid in the teaching process.
3. The tools promote active and engaged discussions, assignments and collaborations
The student is the central focus here. We as faculty have to evaluate what the best way to use the teaching tools in order to effectively teach and promote student centered learning. How do others engage students effectively while using the online virtual environment tools?
-Dawn DiPeri
Emmanuel,
You are the connection conduit! Tying learning to prior learning is a goal!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Emmanuel,
Communicating with students should tie everything together. You want your online course to be more than just a correspondence course!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Edward,
True and capability is very important. Technology failure is the equivalent to not having a book!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Belinda,
Well stated! You are right, the technology should enhance or elevate learning!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
William,
I agree! I had a student today that could not watch a flash video. Surprise!
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Alan,
Well said! You have to think about the student who has the technology barrier. Consideration of all students but be used.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
