Dr. Ruth Reynard

Ileana, while most instructors think of technology as "delivering" assessments (quizzes, tests etc.) the use of technology can actually be assessed. That is, creating assignments where students have to use technology to search, organize, capture and present work using multimedia tools. The assessment should then be of the use of technology as well as the actual content AND process by which it was accomplished.

Excellent points and observations, Ileana. Do you think changes should be made in the overall instructional design in order to fully integrate technology tools and identify assessment methods?

Great, Krista! thank you for sharing your methodology and your approach of introducing technology tools within the overall learning process of the students. This integrated approach is highly successful with students. As you say, the technology skills are a huge part of the learning of the hybrid experience - instructors should be intentional about this as you have outlined. Excellent!

Great points, Patti. Yes, connectivity is now so mobile and flexible that learning can take place anywhere and anytime. This means that, as instructors, we must focus on developing learning skills over content transmission.

So, Patti, you have focused on communication, social, and keyboarding skills. I would agree that communication and social skills are developing, but differently from how we have defined these skills in the past - would you agree? Also, what do you think will take the place of keyboarding in the near future?

Thanks, Patti. Also think about the collaboration and distribution of the learning process that is possible with the white board tool. This allows students to work together, think together, and continue on with the process outside the classroom. Often collaboration takes longer than the class period and this provides that extended opportunity.

Yes, Patti. I like your tactile benefit of the technology. So true! The interaction, customization, and innovation that is possible with the technology means that student engagement is enriched and heightened. Do you have specific examples of this with your students, Patti?

Yes, Patti. The hybrid delivery also elevates the learning process and continues that dynamic within and without the immediate class group. This means that students can learn individually within the larger community - have you seen the benefits with your own students?

That's great, Patti, and it also provides tools that students can use to actually publish their ideas and work - the technology helps students gather and produce information: great way to increase stdent confidence.