Eleanor,
Updating and refreshing content helps it from seeming too dated. That is a very good point. Like you said - the changes don't have to be drastic, just subtle changes will do. Nice job.
I also want to add a second part to my post: there is a task that is required for my students to complete each term in this particular class. Every single time, it really throws half the students into a tailspin. So I create a short, 5 minute "How to" presentation/demonstration so that students can watch at any time just how to complete the assignment. It has alleviated a great deal of student stress and virtually eliminated the flood of last minute panic emails from students.
I try to add fresh content to my slide shows each term. The changes aren't radical, just updated and interesting (I hope). :)The information that I add might be based upon a shift in my student demographic and their unique needs, current events, an interesting website or article that I read. It also keeps me energized during my live chats when I regularly refreshen my content. fresh.
Louise,
External resources can benefit many students. One thing we have to think about is that they are accessible to all students. So, if you use videos, make sure they have transcripts or voice over for those with disabilities. Just a thought. Thanks!
I have used videos and web links for students. I have also incorporated some video clips that the author of the text has provided. In addition to material used in chat, I will provide external sources, such as newspaper articles that pertain to the discussion at hand.
Antonio,
Checking and double checking. We have to do that all the time. Thanks for sharing how you do it.
Take care.
I have several web articles and videos I use to supplement the discussion area. On Mondays when I open the discussion forum, I recheck my links for content and accuracy. There is nothing worst than having valuable information and a dead link. If need to, I will research another site to see if the videoes have just been moved. I have found plenty of videos that have migrated over to YouTube.
Jean,
Good point. Keeping the supplemental videos short and to the point is best. Nice job.
I like to post short video relevant to course materials in several ways:
Announcements
Discussion boards
Resource materials
As long as they are under 5 minutes they are a supplemental way to engage students and connect them to discussions online or in residential forums.
Thomas,
So, you produce these videos yourself and post them so students can watch them at their leisure?
I make focused use of videos in the courses I teach. Its easy to overwhelm students with them so I limit myself to one per week and focus it specifically on the key learning object for the week. I also check to make sure their is no copyright issues with it.
I also find links to news stories are a good tool for encouraging discussion and I will look for stories that relate to the week's key topic and help illustrate it. The key again is not to overload the student, but keep it focus and relevant to the learning goals.
Theran,
We do need to be upfront and honest with students and serve as a great role model when using technology and communicating in a professional way. Nice job.
As noted by others improved course dynamics is necessary, especially as younger students attend classes, it seems that they expect the latest use of technology for instance.
I would mention one other thing, the need for honesty, truth telling, etc., as they can spot a phoney.
If you do not know something, tell them, but then get back with an answer ASAP.
Angela,
Sounds good. It's good to keep track of information you may use or information you may share with students.
Thanks!
I keep a page with links that are relevant for each course discussion board with notes. I also do this with video links for each Unit.
Merle,
We have to meet the students where they are and we all have different technology expertise. Keep working to get to know you students. Nice job.
I think that taking advantage of additional technology in the course is absolutely a good idea. Many of my students are very computer-savvy and are connected to social websites such as Facebook. I think by expanding the use of technology, we are reaching the students where they are most comfortable. I think this will increase student engagement and will offer new and more interesting ways to teach.
Jeanette,
That's cool. When students can use something to help them get a better feel for what they are "getting into" is a great thing.
Thanks!
I've added links to my course that allows the students to use Computer Assisted Coding software.
They seem to enjoy using the software. It gives them a feel for what they will encounter in the real coding environment.
Erin ,
I have also had students make these videos as well. The most simple teaching philosophy is: See, Do, and Teach. When students watch you do something and then do it themselves, they learn. But when they can teach someone else how to do it, they really understand. Just a thought. Thanks for your input.
