Dr. Ruth Reynard

Great points, Angel, regarding the importance of learning objectives and outcomes. So, instruction begins with the end in mind but how do you think the methods of evaluation as well as the learning outcomes might be changing because of new technology?

Indeed, John, this reality has already changed and will continue to change how education is delivered and completed. What do you think are the major kinds of instructional differences we will see?

Yes, good points, Mike. So, the reality is that "computer skills" are constantly changing and often what we think students should be able to do they already can :) Therefore, how can we value not only what they already know but assess new skills even beyond our own but relevant to the field? It seems to me that innovation is central to this question and is a skill that is essential for students to develop. Which other higher level skills do you also think students should develop?

Do you have access to an online white board , Mike? This also provides the opportunity for collaboration and distribution. How do you see these capabilities would enhance student learning?

I agree, Julie, and it is fascinating how the immediacy of the technology can enrich the learning process. Realizing that instructors are only one resource and other resources can be accessed, evaluated and compared can be challenging for instructors but a valuable experince for students.

So, Cleve, there is likely to be more Wiki-like sources for students and even compiled by students. Often these can provide interesting information, however, I agree that students need to know the difference between those and research sources. Both can exist in a paper or project as long as they are cited correctly and used appropriately, in my opinion.

Yes, Julie, and it is the instructor's job to provide assignments and projects that maximize the use of new technolgy. Do you have any specific examples of how you have set up work for students that provides and encourages the use of new technology?

Yes, Rhonda. The use of technology can both support the learning process and teach technology skills at the same time. Given that reality, do you reflect that in your grading? Do you reward both outcomes?

Rhonda, when I worked as director of instructional technology at an institution, we used to provide online and F2F tutiorials for faculty on the use of the white board. If you could plan that kind of support and spend some time practising away from class, that would really help. Also, the technology gets easier with each version :)

Although, yes, information and technology is challenging at a very fast pace, I was wondering...have you found that the Internet can also provide better pacing for students who do struggle, Rhonda? I am referring to the customization that is possible using Internet technology with students. That is, not all students need to move at the same pace or with the same resources...those can be customized and selected by students as needed (such as learning resources online and direct tutorial intervention from the teacher etc.) I would love to hear your thoughts on these...