David,
Being Tech-Ready is a never ending challenge. As the technology changes, we have to keep up. The students (no matter what generation) must as well. i have always said, "When we quit learning, we're dead." ;-) You're right in that we or out students don't have to be technology experts, but be able to participate and learn. Thanks for your remarks.
What does it mean to be “Tech-Ready� To be “Tech-Ready†is a combination of having the right technology to participate in online classes coupled with the knowledge to use that technology. Students don’t need to be a computer “expert†or have a brand new computer to participate in online classes. That said, there is a minimum level of computer capability, access, and ability to participate in the program. We send student links to different tutorials. We have a very detailed step-by-step learning tutorial that guides student on how to use “The Student Portal†our online learning platform.
Sharon,
You are right. There are so many factors when it comes to student success in the online environment, but technical skill is a factor. I like the fact that you make sure all student have completed a computer applications course and word processing course early in their program. But, you are right that all studentts are still going to differ in their ability. Thanks!
The lack of necessary technical skills is often a stumbling block to student success. However, mastering these skills will not only help students to be successful in their courses but will be an advantage in the workplace. Students need to be comfortable navigating online, conducting research on the web and also in the online library, and accessing all aspects of their LMS and student portal.
Many of the assignments in an online course are completed in written form. Therefore, students need to have basic word processing skills in order to complete and upload assignments and to participate in the discussion forum and chat sessions.
Not all students are going to enter their online courses with the level of technical skills needed. For this reason, we require students to take a computer applications course and a word processing course during their first two terms. Students are also provided detailed orientations to all aspects of the LMS and the online library. However, instructors should be aware of the students’ competency levels and incorporate technical skills education into their teaching until students are comfortable.
