Chander,
Definitely. The tool and assessment of the tool are essential. The communication tool has to work for both the students and the instructor. Thanks!
Troy,
It is key, as you noted, that the students be able to easily use the technology to effectively communicate. The communication tool must be assessed and edits made if possible. Thanks for your input.
ROBERT,
We do have to continually assess our communication and the technology used to communicate. You are right that we do need to then implement any changes we can. Thanks for your input.
We often forget to consider the time required to use each tool effectively. Phone calls can take time.
Yes, the communication tool should be effective as well as efficient.
I agree that the ability of students to navigate the technology is important. If students cannot use the tool the communication will not be received.
Sandy,
I agree with the tech support. Unfortunately things do not always work and sometimes it is better to use a simpler method than take the risk of dealing with technical issues.
Tomi
1. Type of message intended to be communicated and the best match to the communication tool.
2. Communication delivery speed and the amount of information communication contains.
3. Types of students being taught and the content of the course.
1. Students access to the communication tool.
2. Needs of students in terms of the type of commnication required and how it would be best delivered.
3. Technical support available.
The three important considerations are:
1. Choosing a tool that promotes effective communication between instructor and students and between students. Based on the feedback during the course and at the end of the course, one can assess the effectiveness of the tool and changes implemented to improve the communication process.
2. Evaluating how the tool enhanced student-to-instructor communication and student-to-student communication. Reviewing the quality and quantity of posts in the discussion threads, one can determine if the tool is efficient or not.
3. Assessing the challenges the instructor and students have using the tool – If both students and the instructor have similar challenges then another tool can be tested and utilized for the next course.
Thanks
There are three important things to consider when assessing technology communication tools in an online environment. First, students and the course facilitator must have familiarity with the technology before the class begins. This allows students to be knowledgeable of the features needed so that the course can run smoothly. Facilitators also need to be familiar with all aspects of the communication tools so that good use of these features can be maximized. An orientation of this technology before the start date would allow for this. Next, matching the content with the proper communication tool will best enhance the learning process. For example, many students need explanations on solving problems in pharmacy math. Large group meeting software or social networking sites would allow for the maximum number of students to participate in real time. Finally, tech support is vital. No one can anticipate when technology might crash, so it is important for students and faculty to have access to technical support 24/7. Students and faculty need to know that the technology being used in the course can be trusted so that effective learning can be achieved.
The three most important things to consider when assessing the use of technology communication tools in a virtual learning environment could be:
1. Impact on communication: The instructors need to know if the communication tool selected has an effective impact on communication. Based on feedback it is wise to implement changes if needed.
2. Planning the assessment: It is crucial to have a clear plan regarding assessment of the communication tools.
3. Timeline of assessment: Using the assessment tools at appropriate timings is important. Using formative and summative formats will be a great option for the same.
Robert Carter
Agnes,
And, we need to asses that effectiveness. The size of the class, content and instructor all make a difference in choosing an appropriate communication tool. Thanks!
Wendy,
When courses have a similar format, the navigation almost becomes invisible because it just becomes second nature to the students. This in combination with technical support is essential. Nice job.
Eman,
We definitely have to give students easy availability and use of the technology. Without that, students won't use the technology or be able to use it and that deters the learning process. Keep assessing the technology and making edits where necessary. Thanks!
Rodney,
Excellent. We do need to have that technology support. As an online instructor, in many courses, that's me as well, but we're getting better help with that nowadays. Thanks!
I think effectiveness of the tool would be my primary criterion. From my experience emails work well, as well as portal announcements.
I would definitely say the intended purpose of a communication tool would be another factor to consider. Live Chat would be used as medium for interactive lectures, or synchronous communication.
Finally, the limitations of the communication tools need to be considered as well. It all depends on the class size and subject being taught.
I believe the 3 most important things are ease of use, technical support and same formatting. Many students are not computer savy so the easier it is to navigate the less fear they have. Also if there is an issue tech support should be available 24/7 as students work on coursework at various times. Finally, courses should be formatting the same so learning where items are in the online environment is not part of the learning process.
Rodney,
The size I the audience can set the stage for a lot if things in the online learning environment. Thanks for bringing that up!
Rodney,
Sound like we are on the same page. Thanks for your continued posts in these forums!
