ron ,
Communication, communication, communication - we can't say it enough. Yes, there are challenges, but we have to keep trying. Nice job.
Aaron,
Student and instructor interaction is important. The communication tool can enhance or deter this. So, it's important to choose the right one. Thanks!
When assessing a communication tool in a virtual environment I believe that it is important to consider if tool enhance instructor-to-student communication in the course; did it do the same for student-student; are there certain challenges involved when using the tool.
I feel that the most important things to consider are:
The amount of time spent by the instructor actively communicating with students and time spent checking emails. Are the two most important things, so that the student or students do not feel that their communications are being neglected or ignored. Third is the amount of support provided to students that are less tech savvy. To troubleshoot and correct the tool itself.
Chanel,
We have to make sure the communication tools are working for us and our students. That is for sure. We must assess all we do, but communication is key. Thanks!
When assessing the use of technology communication tools in the virtual environment, the three most important things to consider are the students, learning styles, and availability of communication tools.
Chanel
Pamela ,
So glad you mentioned meeting the learning outcomes. When we make the technology easy to use and provide help to all students, we do help them achieve the learning objectives through the use of technology. Nice job. Thanks!
Lori,
Yes, we do have to work to keep up with the technology. And, technology support is essential. If we can NOT be the technology support and others can help with that, it's beneficial. Thanks!
When assessing the use of technology communication tools in a virtual learning environment there will be several things to consider. I believe the three most important ones would be ease of use across all student populations, matching the correct tool for the desired outcome and one offering benefits to different learning styles.
It is important for all students to be able to understand and use the communication tool. Without ease of use you will not have good student participation and without participation you will not have communication. I also believe making sure you match the correct tool for the desired outcome is essential. For example, if you want the student to learn the flow of the blood through the heart it would be understood on a higher level by a picture or animation whereas if they are only listening to your words they may become lost easily. The third thing to consider would be the different learning styles of your students. If you mix your presentation with auditory, visual and active you will be able to reach more students and they will gain a better understanding of your topic.
Pamela Asbury
Dr. Crews,
My usual number one question is how does this technology work, I want to be somewhat knowledgeable about the technology and be able to navigate it without a problem. Next, will the students be able to use it? I have had students in online environment who have never used a computer before. So, being to understand the technology to help the students. Technical support is another important thing to consider, if I can not help a student where can they get support from and when it is available.
Lori Zander
Gary,
Good point. Thanks for re-emphasizing that if students find it difficult to use, they are less likely to use it. Thanks.
Like many have said here, my number one choice is ease of use. Second, tech support. Lastly, appearance. Brevity being the name of the game. Gary
Pandora,
True. We do need to assess our own skills as well are our students learning. Thanks!
I like the idea of assessing because I am often not as savvy as my students at technology. If my skills are not up to par for them I need to know it.
David,
So glad you tied the technology to the objectives. That's a great first step. Thanks so much for your input.
The three most important things to consider when assessing the use of technology for online learning are:
1. The technology and your goals and objectives. Will the technology help conveying your message.
2. The abilities of your audience (students). Do all students know how to use the chosen technology?. Do all students have access to the technology?
3. Does the technology you use have proper security tools in place. Is there an authentication process when accessing the technology.
Monica,
We have to expect the unexpected. Students many times don't come to us with the technology skills we think they have. So, we have to be prepared with tips and tricks. Thanks!
Monica,
You're right. We have to use the type of communication tool that works for the class size. Assessing the tool for effectiveness is essential. Thanks!
I agree sometimes the students are not technical savvy therefore; you must review the technological aspect of the communication channel to ensure the students will be able to utilize it effectively.
It is helpful to either post some helpful tips and or FAQ regarding how to utilize certain technology to enable the flow of communication to be continuous. In addition it is suggested to provide the students with information on how to contact tech support if needed.
The three most important things to consider regarding technology tools are the effectiveness, appropriateness and user friendly. Keep in mind the size of the audience and the type of technology needed to complete the task. If you are addressing a small group of students utilize the email as a way to communicate to the students collectively as a class to emphasize information. If you are addressing a larger group utilize the Adobe connect professional. Some may even use social networking as a form of communication.
