Part 2: Blog Assignment: Impact of Technology and Multimedia

What impact does technology and multimedia have on online learning environments?

According to our book, because of the technology and the multimedia used in the online courses, all of the this can easily transfer from the traditional sit-down classes. (Boettcher, 2010, p. 58)

If it were not for technology, online courses would not exist, or function properly. Because online learning can be difficult at times, when it comes to learning complex concepts, multimedia helps to aid the student during this process. For instance, which I have used numerous times in previous discussions, learning how to tie a shoe. I think that I have seen this on YouTube at one time or another, the narrator informs you how to tie your shoe, step by step, in addition to presenting this information visually. Without mulitmedia, a student probably would not be able to learn how to tie their shoes successfully while taking an online course.

So, basically, without technology or multimedia, online courses would cease to exist, or not function properly.

What are the most important considerations an online instructor should make before implementing technology?

Our book stated that for a first time Instructor to learn the basic, essential technological tools, and to ask the students when necessary, so that they feel like part of the process. (Boettcher, 2010, p. 56) To me, I feel that an Instructor should know how to utilize the technology that will used for the particular class. I only say this, if a student is having trouble, for instance, narrating their teacher introduction in a PDF, the teacher should be able to answer. I realize that this information is available online, however, sometimes it is too hard to understand, or the instructions are too vague.

What implications do usability and accessibility of technology tools have for online teaching?

Usability in this instance encompasses effectiveness, efficiency, and satisfaction that students can achieve specified learning goals in a particular enivironment with tools and learning resources (Cooper, 2007, p. 232)

Accessibiliyt is the flexibility of the e-learning system or learning resources to meet the needs and preferences of all users. (Cooper, 2007, p. 232)

If an assignment is created for students, all technological tools within the Blackboard, for example, should be working properly and efficiently, so that student can enjoy the full experience. Why devise and assigment if all of the technological elements are not suffice, or in place? This would be a waste of everyone involved time. If usability and accessibility cannot be created, then other options should be looked at, such as a different LMS or CMS, or modifying the technologicial tools.

What technology tools are most appealing to you for online teaching as you move forward in your career in instructional design?

Course Announcement: I plan to use to the fullest - I have been in some online class when the Instructor never posted anything to it. This is essentially how the Instructor communicates important information to the students.

Grades: I know how important this for me as a student. I like to know just where I stand as far as grades are concerned - every student is the right to know.

Peer Reviewing: I use to be afraid to have my school colleagues read my papers, I was embarrassed to say the least, now, I thrive on peer review. Why the change? I realized that we are all in the same boat, and everyone has their own writing style.

Skype/iluminate - For complex course assignments, by providing this service to answer any questions or concerns in beneficial to the student's succcess.

Blogs: Used for social networking purposes and an informal assignment (let your hair down, so to speak).

I could go and on, but I am not - I mentioned just a few.


References:

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. (2004). Engaging the online learner: Activities and resources for creative instruction. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.

Cooper, M., Colwell, C., & Jelfs, A. (2007). Embedding accessibility and usability: Considerations for e-learning research and development projects. ALT-J: Research in Learning Technology, 15(3), 231–245.

Roblyer, M. D., & Wiencke, W. R. (2003).Design and use of a rubric to assess and encourage interactive qualities in distance courses. American Journal of Distance Education, 17(2), 77–98.