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Hello Nicole: You have made a valid point about technology communication tools. If the system can not accomodate the technology tools you would like to employ, then you will not be able to use that tool.
I believe the most important things to consider when assessing the use of technology communication tools are: 1) The ability of students to use the tool; 2)The ability of the instructor to use the tool; 3) The size of the group;and the 4)Topic being taught.
In order for students to participate in the virtual learning environment, they need to know how to use technology communication tools employed in that environment. No learning will take place if the student can not use the tool.
Furthermore, facilitators must know how to use the tools in the virtual learning environment or information will not be communicated. Also, the size of the group the facilitator will engage needs to be taken into consideration. You want to make the communication seem specific to each learner as possible.
Last, but not least, the subject taught should play a role in what communication tool will be used. Will it be better to demonstrate how to complete a task or tell students how to complete a task.
The three most important things to consider when using technology tools is:
(1) How to effectively teach the content. I teach mathematics which is quite challenging in an online environment. I must make sure that the technology tool I choose creates an effective learning environment for my students.
(2)When to use asynchronous and synchronous tools. Time is always a consideration. When using large group communication tools such as Illuminate Live, instructors must consider the time students are able to attend. Of course, an advantage is that the sessions are archive.
(3) Can the students properly access these tools? If the student cannot, then communication is hendered. Most online schools do a goos job of making sure the students have access to these tools.
The three most important things to consider when using technology tools is:
(1) How to effectively teach the content. I teach mathematics which is quite challenging in an online environment. I must make sure that the technology tool I choose creates an effective learning environment for my students.
(2)When to use asynchronous and synchronous tools. Time is always a consideration. When using large group communication tools such as Illuminate Live, instructors must consider the time students are able to attend. Of course, an advantage is that the sessions are archive.
(3) Can the students properly access these tools? If the student cannot, then communication is hindered. Most online schools do a good job of making sure the students have access to these tools.
Vivian ,
Dawn ,
Thanks for your comprehensive explanation. We continue to learn from each other. Thanks.
Dawn ,
Wow! Thanks for your comprehensive explanation. We continue to learn from each other. Thanks.
When considering the most important communication tools in a virtual learning environment, I believe we have to consider many factors. The first should be the material we are going to over throughout the course. Being a CJ instructor, we have very sensitive material we have to cover. By using tools such as that are appropriate for this level of material, I find to be very important. Another issue I may need to consider is the ability of the students to understand the technology that needs to be used. It is important that the students not only have the knowledge to use the tools, but to make sure they have all the most up to date material available on their system. I run into this issue a lot with my students, not updating the tools necessary to complete the tasks within the course.
--Access and ease of use: If the student doesn't have access (necessary hardware for instance) or the technology is complicated to use, the student won't engage.
--Does it create a connection: Is it a method of communication that creates a personal connection with the student. They need to feel as though there is another person actively involved with their success.
Is it timely and relevant: If the school isn't utilizing up and coming technologies (Facebook, Twitter for example) will the students engage or will they not listen because the school is not communicating with them via their most used tools.
I think the 3 most important things to consider are
1. Easy of use for all concerned; instructor and student alike.
2. Commonality within the learning environment; i.e. who has a Mac and who uses PC's which can disrupt learning.
3. The subject matter being taught. Some disciplines lend themselves to the on line environment more than others.
I believe the three most important things to consider when assessing the use of technology communication tools in a virtual learning environment are:
1. Ease of use: There is nothing worse than having a program that is difficult for students to learn or navigate.
2. Instructor knowledge: When students have challenges using communication tools, the instructor should be the first contact for support.
3. Effectiveness: Communication tools need to be multifunctional to be effective. Using one type of tool is useless given the number of choice for communicating.
Vivian Washington
Three most important considerations:
1 - Students are fully informed of the requirements for the course
2 - Students have the appropriate software and hardware
3 - Students have the appropriate technology skills to navigate the course
The students need a clear understanding of the technology requirements for the course. For example if Powerpoint presentations are required and they need to not only have the software but also need to know how to utilize the software. This explains the importance of 1 and 2. If the student does not have or does not know how to use this modality it will have an impact on the students grade and/or decision to sign up for the course or drop.
Number three is important in that if the student is not familiar or does not have the technology skills to navigate a course it becomes very frustrating and aggravating as well as defeating. These types of emotions cause students to give up, put off the work and do poorly.
Timothy,
Right. The content, technology and level of Internet access play an important role in the communication tools you may use. Thanks!
When assessing the use of communication tools in a virtual learning environment, three important considerations are student access, student savvy, and course topic matter. Many communication technologies such as VOIP and Adobe Connect (as well as other meeting software) do best with Broadband connection speeds. Students with dial-up modems may not be able to take advantage of all of the course components as offered. Additionally, students must be empowered and trained to use the technology to full advantage. Sometimes instructors make the faulty assumption that their students arrive already fluent in these technologies (older instructions are particularly susceptible to this assumption when dealing with younger students). Finally, there are some course materials that are better delivered in person or in a traditional classroom. Not all material translates smoothly into an asynchronous or even remote setting.
Ann,
Right. It is developing a better understanding of the students that helps you better provide for the students. Nice job.
George,
I like that you brought up the idea of integrating current topics into the course. That along with effective communication tools and subject matter expertise can make for a wonderful combination.
Gretchen,
Thanks for bringing up FERPA, security and ease of use into the conversation. Nice job.