Thomas,
Thanks for the example. It's great to share things like this with others so they know what to expect too. Thanks!
I would real life understanding of communications, flexibility and ability to message in real time as a possibility. Let me offer a simple example. Five years ago, I started making my cell phone available for texting/calling me. Being a little older, I was first surprised at how many students would text me with questions and relied on it for interaction with me. I also noticed these students responded more to the online discussion forum. In essence, the texting allowed for communication practice and for me to offer responses readily. This trend reflects (I believe) cultural and sociological change) we are all experiencing.
Alexander,
You are so right. There are different ways. Thanks for your input about communication tools.
There are different ways and tools to use to communication. Below are 3 important technology communication considerations.
One of the most important technology communication tool's items to consider is the student's technical ability to support on-line studies -
A second important item is the communication tool's medium can leave out important human communication clues and inflections -
The last important item is communication tool's ability to promote learning, to be easy to use so as not to interrupt the learning process
As time goes on, the future will bring even more communication tools, I've described 3 important technology communication considerations.
William,
If we find a communication tool that meets these needs, the students and instructor will be better off. Thanks - these are great things to consider.
Rick,
When a tool is universal, has good reviews, and enhances communication - "bingo" - you have a good one. Good point.
1. Ease of use and navigation that is simple to understand. Such as using bold type appropriately with color coding for clear understanding.
2. Technical support 24/7 that has a good understanding of potential problems in the site and how to correct them.
3. Support from the instructor for content and how to help the student be successful in the class.
The three main things that are important in my opinion are based on the following:
1. Whether the tool used is universal enough to be clearly understood by all involved. It must be user-friendly and easy to operate. Users will quickly go to other platforms if it is not user-friendly enough.
2. Find out how the tool fairs with the public to date. Not only by getting feedback from students, but also from the general society at large via Internet comments to the public. This is how more of the truth comes out, which will shed light on the first impressions and personal experiences of the tools.
3. Determine if the technology enhances I2S, S2I, and S2S communication in the course. If these are all favorable, these would be the most important in my opinion out of the three mentioned here.
Rick Johnson
3.
Jim,
Could you clarity. Is this a sentence or several items? Thanks!
School requirements
student competency in technology
technology tools available.
Tamika,
Excellent. I like that you added that the students must understand how and when to use the communication tool. Nice job.
Kevin ,
You bring up a good point about assessing how often the technology is used. If it's not being used, why use it or what else could be more effectively used? Thanks!
The three most important things to consider when assessing the use of technology communication tools in a virtual learning environment would be the content that needs to be presented, the equipment needed to communicate in that fashion, and the student's understanding of how and when to use such communication tool.
I feel that the top three assessments that should be measured are access to the technology, ease of use of the technology, and how often the technology is used. I believe that access is a crucial measurement because not all students have equitable access to technology and there for students could be marginalized by technology. Ease of use should be measured because not all students have the inherent ability to use technology. Finally, the frequency that the technology is used should be measured to see if the technology is worth keeping as a communication tool.
Jessica,
Great list. If the communication tool is not easy to use, why use it - that may be what the students will be asking themselves as well. We live and learn as we teach and we do have to find that tool that meets our and our students needs. Thanks!
When it comes to evaluating communication tools I believe its important to determine if it is user friendly, technically supported and appropriate. The tool needs to be user friendly. If the tools isn't easy to use then the student may get frustrated and then become disengaged. Issues always happen so you need to make sure that technical assistance is available when needed. Sometimes the best method is the simplest method. Having a fancy tool doesn't always mean that it's the right tool for that group of users or that particular scenario. If the tool doesn't fit the appropriate group users or the scenario then it could become a hinder instead of useful tool to aid in the process.
Thank You - Jessica Hansen
Carla,
Good point. We have to communicate clearly and revisit items to make sure the understanding is there. Thanks.
Communicate the requirements effectively
Frequent review of correct techniques
Availability of instructor
Paulette,
Well, we all have to work with what we have. Our university doesn't require it, but I do. And, I can do that. Thanks for your input.
Dr. Crews,
That is a wonderful idea to make live chat attendance mandatory.
Unfortunately it is not mandatory at my university. Students can opt out and listen to the recorded session.
Paulette
