Janis,
You are right. The course content plays a significant role in what you do in the onnline learning environment. The technology is the key in helping you do what you need to do. Have you tried any of these resources? http://www.whiteboardblog.co.uk/2009/07/20-interactive-whiteboard-resources-for-teachers/
Thanks!
The subject matter is the most important to consider. I teach math. This is a far different "ball game" than teaching other disciplines. I need a tool which will allow me to demonstrate the problems.
Secondly, I need to assess the equipment needed to use a tool. In my classes, I want desperately to use some technology that has a white board so I can demonstrate the problems. I have had great success demonstrating the problems "live" for the students. But if they do not have a microphone, using many of the software packages is pointless.
Thirdly, I have to look at expense for the student. If I use conferencing technology, often times students have to call in long distance. This can be expensive. Or, if they are using their cell phones and have unlimited long distance, they are using up their minutes. It is a difficult problem.
Albert,
We do have a various group of students. The more we can do to make sure they have access to the technology and understand the course expectations, the better. Encouraging students to engage in IM and live chats is an excellent idea as well. Thanks!
In my experience,
1. the type of student and how they intend to access the online class room: parents or full time employees will not be able to use any tool anytime I want them to use it
2. the student's access to technical support and the means to accept responsibility of costs: students can access online material using many types of devices. I make sure that I provide a mode of access that ALL students can use. All students can post questions to forums or send me an email. Others will want to use the telephone. And some students cannot afford that LD phone call.
3. the intended purpose: I use and reply to emails but I encourage students to use IM and live chat. Some students only have access to the live chat software during the day or during regular business hours. Telephone is used to provide motivation but not substantive technical information.
Mark,
right. We don't want to use technology just because we can, but we want it to meet the needs of the course and students. Thanks.
James,
Ah, open ended questions will provide you with more details and additional information. Glad you take what they say into consideration when updating the course. Nice job.
James and Nicole,
The first live chat is the perfect time to introduce everything to the students. The earlier the better. Thanks.
.
James,
You are right on in your answers. If students don't have access to the technology, everything else is a moot point. Thansk!
Dr. Tena B. Crews
Hello everyone,
First, we have to consider if the technology tool will meet the needs of the students and help them fulfill the requirements of the course. Next, we have to take into account if the students have the basic skills needed to use the tool in an effective manner. If they do not have such skills, we have to weigh how long it might take to help them gain proficiency. Finally, we should consider if the tool does actually simplify and facilitate communication and instruction or if it is instead a poor substitute for simpler, more familiar methods.
Mark A. Coppelli
I think it is important to insure you can some feedback from students, so I tend to ask open ended questions. Second, I ask my students to provide me feedback on the course structure and flow. Third, I try to assess, from emails and other communications, the comfort level of students working with the technology in the course--and that one seems to be the most variable thing because students have a wide range of skill levels, and I do keep notes and refer to those notes as the course develops--Dr Jim Young
Nicole,
I also feel that the ability of the student to use the technology is important. That is why I spend the first of my live chat sessions going over all of the technology features of the course.
Thanks
Jim
I believe that the three most important things to consider whe assessing Technology communication tools in a virtual learning environment are:
1. Using technology that is accessible to the student. If this a must. For example, if the students do not have access to audio, what good would an audio lecture be.
2. Students need to know how to use the technology. I only placed this as secondary importance because the student could be taught how to use the technology.
3. The use of a technology which matches the student’s learning style. Thus, it is important to use several different tools within a course.
Jim
Lewis,
Student centered is the key. We have to learn to facilitate he learning well. Thanks for your input.
Dr. Tena B. Crews
William,
Totally agree and you can update it and reuse each semester. Thanks.
Dr. Tena B. Crews
William,,
Yes, you are correct. The technology should not detract from the learning environment. Thanks!
Dr. Tena B. Crews
Linda,
Right on! Finding the right technology tool for the right course r situation is essential. And, then you must assess the tool. Nice job.
Dr. Tena B. Crews
Susan,
The subject matter can play a significant role. A variety of technology tools may be available but finding why works for you and your students (and content) is what really makes the difference. Thanks.
Dr. Tena B. Crews
Roberto,
I love Adobe Connect and have used it for online office hours as well as providing content to students and allowing students to do oral presentations through the system. It complements the other communication tools well. Thanks.
Dr. Tena B. Crews
Trista,
Good perspective. We must provide the student with resources to help them keen or use technology effectively. This will enhance the learning process..
Dr. Tena B. Crews
The most important item is to know the learning system very well as an instructor so that the learning experience can be customized to each student. By creating a student centered environment we foster success.
Sincerely,
Lillian Lynn
