Impact of Technology and Multimedia- Week 5

Technology plays a large role in online learning because it assumes the characteristics of a traditional learning environment.  Technology not only enhances the presentation of the content by giving students means to view information in an audio visual format but it also allows students to create final products that exhibit their learning.   Technology also provides distance education with flexibility and accessibility. Boettcher and Conrad (2010) explain that with today’s technology such as smartphones, IPods, and other mobile devices learners have many options on who will they learn from and where education will take place (p.8).  Assessment is also facilitated through the use of technology. Assessment can be continuous and allow students to learn from their work rather completing an assignment for the sole purpose of a grade.  With online quizzes, tests, and discussion posts, students can receive quick feedback that will guide them through the course content. Flexibility is also a benefit from the use of technology because it allows students to communicate easily across distance as well as participate in a course asynchronously.

There are many considerations that an instructor must take into account before implementing technology.  For instance, an instructor must motivate the students as well as meet the needs of their learner from the onset of the course.  Boettcher and Conrad (2010) describe this aspect Phase 1, in which instructors begin to construct a background knowledge of their students to better engage their learning and build relationships to support their learning. Phase 2, called “Keeping the Ball Rolling” in which the instructor must consider how to continually guide and challenge students as they establish a weekly schedule. Lastly in Phase 3, called “ Letting Go of the Power,” the instructor must consider how to teach  their students to take the information they learned to extended it beyond the constraints of the classroom.

Usability and accessibility is a double edged sword.  The benefits of technology is that it allows students and instructors to access work from anywhere at any time, in essence creating their own schedule.  This opens doors to many students who live in countries where education is limited due to remote locations or political constraints.  However working with technology can also become frustrating when machines do not work as we would want them too. Conrad and Donaldson (2011) explain, “ it is important to provide instructions in advance for an alternate class activity in case the synchronous session is interrupted due to network problems(p. 25).” As an instructor, it is important to understand that access and usability may sometimes stall course work.

The technological tools that are most appealing to me are course management systems and how they could be used in a blended education setting as well as the use of games and simulations to teach content.  As a high school teacher, I strive to infuse as much technology into the classroom as possible to engage my students as well as support their learning.  Even though currently my district has limited access to technology, I want to incorporate what I can to motivate and challenge my students.

In summary, distance education could not be possible without the technology that has been brought to the fore front.  Technology offers students many opportunities that would have never been possible before. It has given a new face to education that will bring profound effects to accessibility in attaining higher levels of education.

Resources

Boettcher, J. V., & Conrad, R. (2010). The online teaching survival guide: Simple and practical pedagogical tips. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.

Conrad, R., & Donaldson, J. A. (2011). Engaging the online learner: Activities and resources for creative instruction (Updated ed.). San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.

                                                         

Setting up Online Learning Experiences

Setting up Online Learning Experiences There are a variety of steps that an instructor must consider when setting up an online learning experience. These steps include setting clear expectations, considering the type and quantity of technology that will be used in the course, establishing social presence, and understanding the proper behavior an instructor must portray when addressing online students. All these components can set the stage for an effective online learning experience.

Technology has allowed us to make connections that make distance education an effective method of education. It is important to know all of the possible technological tools that allow instructors to connect with students to foster educational discussion. This can also be a double edged sword however because introducing too much technology right in the beginning of the course may lead to confusion. Starting off with the basic tools and then building upon them with different types of technology is a good way to enhance learning. For instance, audio and visual technology can be used to record an instructor’s voice, so the students are more connected to the instructor. Synchronous meetings can also be made over distance, so that students feel like they are experiencing aspects of a traditional classroom. The quantity and type of technology that is used in a course is a pivotal decision for an instructor in which can motivate and encourage students.

Creating themes in the beginning of the course is very important to establish appropriate distance learning behavior. It is important to communicate clear expectations to the learners especially in a distance learning experience where much of the work requires independent study. Since miscommunication can occur due to time zone differences and using new technology, outlining expectations in the beginning of the course will set the tone for the remainder of the class. Boettcher and Conrad (2011) explain, “clear and unambiguous guidelines about what is expected of learners and what they should expect from an instructor make a significant contribution to ensuring understanding and satisfaction in an online course (p.55).” In other words, knowing all the rules of the game gives you a head start to achieving success in the course.

Some additional considerations that instructors need to address when creating an online learning experience is for an instructor to create social presence. This can be done by creating a getting –acquainted posting before the course begins, using the announcements tool 3 to 4 times a week, or creating and participating in icebreakers. Establishing relationships with students is key to enhancing learner satisfaction and effective in learner the content.

In summary, I have learned about a number of strategies that can enhance a distance learning experience. What I learned the most is that there are a number of small steps that an instructor must take to better relate to his or her students that would not be as important in a traditional classroom experience. For instance, the desire for anonymity had never occurred to be especially in reference to race. From these resources, I now understand how physical appearance may change to interaction in the classroom. In essence I have learned that it is important to consider the small steps, like addressing and every student by name and referring to bios throughout the course to make personal connections. Dr. Paloff and Pratt explain the importance in, “making personal connections to students to avoid “cookie cutter” experiences in the online environment (Laureate Education, 2012). Creating a personal relationship with students is the key to creating an environment of learning.
Resources

Boettcher, J. V., & Conrad, R. (2010). The online teaching survival guide: Simple and practical pedagogical tips. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.

Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2012). Evaluating Distance Learning Theory . Baltimore, MD: Author