I teach an online computer class. This sometimes can be very challenging. I think that I often assume that student should have the basic knowledge of how to use the computer effectively. However, this is not always the case. Often times, students don’t know how to attach files or send a proper email.
I find that overall the technical skills online students should possess are:
a) basic knowledge of the operating system under use
b) basic understanding of Internet connectivity
c) basing knowledge of Microsoft suite
d) knowledge of the LMS
Derek,
You are right. They have to be familiar with the LMS. How do you make sure they have the skills.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Loriann,
Great post. I agree with you. Does your student have to take an orientation? That can help set and secure technical expectations.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Christopher,
That is what it takes to be success in your class. How do you handle if they don't have these skills?
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Sherrilyn,
I too am surprised out shallow students technical knowledge can be. You don't want the lack of technical skills to be the barrier for the student.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Depending on the course level and the student population's technical level, I will determine a set of technical skills that I want my students to understand.
New online students will need the necessities of basic file editing, basic search engine use, and possibly power point or excel experience.
Advanced online students will need further development in understanding different file types, file storage, file compression or locking. And more detailed tools within power point such as animation and embedding video clips can be introduced. Within excel, macros need to be created.
Today's technology is growing at a rapid pace, so continuing to introduce our students to the new technology is essential !
From my experience with the courses I teach online, I see the following technical skills as absolutely important:
• Knowledge of basic computer hardware and software with ability to perform computer operations, such as:
o Typing and using the keyboard and mouse
o Working with files such as naming, saving, spell-checking, copying and pasting, renaming and deleting
o Using software applications such as Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Outlook
o Sending and downloading attachments. Uploading their assignments to dropboxes.
• Internet skills. Being able to connect, access using browsers. Ability to perform online research using various search engines and library databases.
• Ability to use online communication tools such as email to create, send, receive, reply, print, send/receive attachments. Understand how discussion boards work to be able to read, post, reply and follow threads.
• Have basic knowledge of computer/Internet terminology, such as browser, URL, application, etc.
Edna Murugan
Navigating the LMS environment is important for all students to be successful online learners. I have used various LMS such as Blackboard, D2L, Moodle, and WebCT. Students who can navigate any of these LMS had no problems participating in online activities. Simple skills required include knowing how to: "
1.Copy, cut, and paste text in a document?
2.Save a Microsoft Word file as a .pdf file?
3.Use the spell checker and thesaurus?
4.Search the Internet effectively?
5.Attach a file to an email?
6.Save and retrieve files using a USB drive?
7.Download plug-ins such as Flash, Adobe Reader, etc.?
8.Login and use the school's online library system?
9.Login and use the school's Learning Management System (LMS)?
10.Download and unzip files?"
Source: CEC Module 3.
Working with Web sites and downloads is critical.
I had a student the other day who called and insisted that my demonstration video was not available. I pulled up the Web site while he was on the phone and it seemed to be working just fine. Upon further questioning I realized that the student had typed the address in manually instead of clicking the hyperlink.
You really can't assume anything when it comes to writing instructions for online students.
I believe students must have the ability to not only understand the LMS and its technology, but understand how to harness the Internet, translate course requirements into searches needed to acquire research material. Uploading assignments, knowing how to submit assignments to Turnitin, and effective use of MS Office is critical as well.
Dr. Wilkinson: You are smart to provide a basic technology requirement and skills at the beginning. It can set the tone of how important the technology will be in the course.
Andrea: Hi Dr. Wilkinson, I have found students to be a lot more confident when having the instructions posted on the announcements page. In addition, I will email instructions to all students in class, in case they do not see it on the announcements page.
Tamara: Students having basic computer skills are important. I always do basic computers refresher for the students. I dedicate one lecture to APA format and power point presentation.
Andrea: Good idea, Tamara! I think a lecture on APA Style in the beginning of class is so helpful, as many students are enrolled in classes with little or no experience with APA style or citing of references.
1. Accessing the web through Google Crome, Explorer, Google.
2. Researching the Internet and School Online Library
3. Opening, uploading and downloading attachments and links.
4. Basic use of email and replying on discussion boards, communicating through instant messenger and via online chat sessions.
5. Providing links or information on tutoring labs.
Students are given instructions in how to complete all the above efforts on the announcements page in class.
I agree that each of these are important skills. For our English courses, they should also be able to cut, copy, paste, as this makes re-arranging ideas easier when writing essays. They also need research skills so that they may choose credible online sources and avoid plagiarism.
What technical skills do you see as important for your online students?
Being able to navigate the online forum and having fundamental PC skills, such as using a browser and office applications, such as Word and Excel are critical. Students should also have basic technology troubleshooting skills and be willing to call for help when they have problems.
Technical skills are very important in today's age.
Basic computer skills are extremely important.
Confidence in navigating the system
1) Experience in working with LMS platforms
2) Typing well
3) Accessing data, being a self learner
4) Research and searching materials within the internet
These are all skills that are very important to the student
Dr. Chuo
Lauree,
You are right! It is so important that students get "up to speed" on the technology quickly. I create tutorials for all of them and post. It does seem to work.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Edna,
This is a great list. Do you find that most students traditional or nontraditional lack many of these skills?
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Tom,
You make such a great point. I think we are so used to dealing with the LMS that we forget many "new" students have no working knowledge of the LMS.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
Pat,
Wow, you make a great observation. You have to assume no knowledge when addressing problems.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
