Technology requirements are an important aspect of selecting tools to use. Without meeting the requirements, it doesn't matter if it would be great or not, you can't use it.
The ability of the students is also important. Beginners, even though its a great technology, may not be able to use it.
The subject material is also important for determing the tools to use. It may be a great tool but it may not fit well for what you have in mind.
Ellie,
It's a great thing to think about where the students are "coming from" and what access they have to the tools you use. You are right on when you talk about time management as well. The longer you teach online the more time management skills you learn. Thanks again.
Daniel,
I agree. It is always good to do some type of diagnostic assessment with students to see what they know and where they are coming from. That way you know what they know about using technology and the content as well. That helps you determine how quickly you can cover the material, etc. Nice job.
Three important factors to consider are:
Is this technology user friendly? I have some students working on assignments from a site that has changed its format and some email me stating it was very hard to use....I don't like this site.
Will all my students have access to this technology? If not, what is the cost for the student to get it?
Will this technology be compatible for everyone in my classes?
Steven, you are right about some students not having the background or experience regarding technology. Some have stated they had never owned a computer or even used one before.
Christina, I really like that you mention the personal touch. Some students are very creative and have alot of experience with technology so they can use these skills by attaching their creation.
Marie Moran
Three things that are important to consider are:
Assess and reflect on the tool's effectiveness to ensure proper usage and effective communication.
Examine how the technology impacts the communication process.
Assess ease of use, instructor or learner control, and technology requirement.
An instructor must consider:
1)Is the communication medium appropriate for the subject material?
For example, if a science class required a lab, would an online lecture do an experiment justice?
2)Is the medium accessible to the students?
If a student does not have Microsoft or Elluminate or a strong bandwidth, online classes cannot be taught.
3) How do I check for comprehension?
Without seeing faces, an instructor needs to perpetually check-in with students.
The instructor will need to do an assessment of the technology/communication tools available to:
1) meet the students needs
2) meet course objectives
3) meet cost and equipment needed
These "tools" are a new way of thinking "outside the box". I can't wait to explore!
Marie,
It is important to use technology that all students can access. You do not want the technology to impede the learning process. Campatibility is always an issue as well. Thanks for your input.
You have to know who your audience is and you have to make sure that you are using a variety of communication tools in order to reach out to every student. Some students may do better with a phone call while others may prefer e-mail.
When assessing the use of technology the three important things to consider are:
1. What tools are available for the students to use to communicate with the instructor, and classmates.
2. How reliable the tool that you are going to use to communicate. Will the students use this tool to communicate? Will this tool get their attention quickly?
3. Today the young generation is very experienced with technology, but the older generation seems to struggle with the new technology, let alone know how to use it. Are all students technologically able to use the technology that is available comfortably?
Patricia,
Right on! An audience analysis is so important and communicatin is the key! Nice job.
Yvonne,
Excellent. Knowing what communication tools work, what to use and what the students feel comfortable using is so important. Each generation is different and recognizing that is the key.
I would consider:
1- My students technical level or how comfortable they are with using those tools.
2-The ability to cater to a diverse student population with different communication preferences.
3-My student's understanding of how these tools can benefit them.
I believe that first we must consider, which tools are available and supported by the school and students. Secondly, we must consider the purpose or function of the tools and make sure that it is appropriate as intended within a course, finally, cost should be taken into account. Also I would like to add a fourth necessity, which is to have appropriate training in the use and maintenance of the tool.
LE,
I agree that security is an important consideration indeed. Also, the control of security features by the instructors is important.
Daniel,
I agree that the subject-matter needs to be considered. I teach science and a lot of the terms and math functions cannot be properly expressed unless the tool has special features to support scientific notation, etc.
Yehia ,
Great list of things to think about. Knowing your audience, your students, is very helpful as you design your instruction.
Miriam,
Knowing the tools and knowing the capabilities of the students is essential. As you noted, yo must make sure you are using the appropriate tool. Nice job.
