1. What impact does technology and multimedia have on online learning environmentsTechnology and multimedia have a huge impact on the online learning environment. Web 2.0 technology allow for collaboration and interactivity (Palloff, & Prat, n.d.) that supports sound distance theory (Simonson, Smaldino, Albright, & Zvacek, (2012). It also allows a wide-variety in terms of meeting the needs of learners. Combinations of text, audio, and video can meet the cognitive needs of a diverse learner population (Simonson, et, al, 2012).
2. What are the most important considerations an online instructor should make before implementing technology?When implementing technology into an online program, there are some important considerations. For example an instructor must be thoughtful in the use of technology. The technology must be purposeful in that it will help the learners meet the goals and objectives of the course (Palloff, & Pratt, n.d.). Technology cannot be implemented just because it is there (Palloff, & Pratt, n.d.). Purposeful planning in how the technology can enhance engagement and community must be built into the design (Simonson, et al, 2012).
3. What implications do usability and accessibility of technology tools have for online teaching?When considering the usability and accessibility of technology tools, one cannot assume that everyone has the connectivity needed for the use of web 2.0 technologies (Palloff, & Pratt, n.d.). An instructor must needs to consider contingencies for those students who lack the necessary connectivity to interact with their classmates. Other forms of communication (phone, and email) though not as efficient can still be used in order to create engagement for learners.
4. What technology tools are most appealing to you for online teaching as you move forward in your career in instructional design?As I move forward in my career, I would really like to increase my knowledge in terms of designing my own tools that incorporate technology. Our text speaks to how most online instructors and designers rely on existing tools (YouTube™, CSM's, etc.) that allow us to implement technology (Boettcher, & Conrad, 2010). Being able to design and implement my own tools would take my thinking and skills to the next level. Though I have enjoyed the Walden Instructional Design and Technology program, I was hoping for a little more instruction on making these tools.
References
Boettcher, J., & Conrad, R. (2010). The online teaching survival guide: Simple and practical pedagogical tips. San Francisco, CA: Josey-Bass.
Palloff, R. (Writer), & Pratt, K. (Writer) (n.d.) Enhancing the online experience [Web]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu/webapps/portal/frameset.jsptab_tab_group_id=2_1&url=%2Fwebapps%2Fbackboard%2Fexecute%Flauncher%Ftype%3DCourse%26id%3D1375244_1%26url%3D
Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2012). Teaching and learning at a distance: Foundations of distance education (5th ed.) Boston, MA: Pearson.
Genise,
ReplyDeleteYou bring out some very valid points within your post this week. It is important for instructors to consider when implementing technology in their online courses. Instructors should thoroughly choose the proper technology and incorporate it with a thoughtful process. Additionally I feel that it’s important to not overwhelm students with nonessential technology that they could find difficult (Boettcher & Conrad, 2010). I also agree with you that when students are enrolled in a online course they should have a prerequisite that provides them with “base” technology such as those web 2.0 tools. It is also important to consider the different type of connections that each student may have available to them and work with each student as a problem occurs.
Nicole
References:
Boettcher, J. V., & Conrad, R. (2010). The online teaching survival guide: Simple and practical pedagogical tips. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.
Genise,
ReplyDeleteYour blog emphasizes the need for both online instructors and Instructional Designers to incorporate Web 2.0 tools that are pertinent to the learning objectives. I agree that incorporating multimedia into online courses livens the online learning experience. When used effectively, graphics, audio, animation and other media helps learners make sense of the subject matter. Students have the opportunity to explore more material at a deeper level than previous generations. The current generation of students is multimodal (Metros, 2008). Given the variance of generations in the online course,what recommendations do you have for selecting Web 2.0 tools that support all learners?
Reference:
Metros, S. (2008). The educator’s role in preparing visually literate learners. Theory Into Practice, 47(2), 102-109.
Hi Genise,
ReplyDeleteYou raise one of Dr. Palloff and Pratt's points in your post: "one cannot assume that everyone has the connectivity needed for the use of web 2.0 technologies". I would argue that one can indeed assume that everyone has the requisite connectivity needed to use such tools. If not at home, certainly students can be expected to use the library or other public resources. Especially in an online learning environment, I think it's safe to assume students have the necessary connectivity.