Michael,
So, the main challenge for instructors is to not be linear in design or delivery of instructional engagement, so that students can interact and apply more freely.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
Technology and it's various applications will develop skills depending on the learner's values.
Some learners may use technology merely as an 'information resource' to google massive amounts of knowledge. While other students may use technology to create their own personal custom learning environment tailored to their learning style (with fonts, colors. backgrounds, favorite tabs, and various links that are deemed important). Technology can teach students the skill of being 'self-sufficient or independent' whereby ANY onine video 'how to' can be viewed so the student can now copy or attempt a new skill on their own. Some students gain confidence or enhance their written communication skills by sharing their perspective or facts in various BLOGS or Wiki's.
Technology develops skills in students that we may or may not be able to assess and certainly may not even be aware of.
Lauree,
Great ideas and examples. Please continue the discussion in the Instruction Forum in the Teachers' Lounge.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
There is a whole host of new skills that students can develop when using new technology within the classroom environment. I think, first and foremost, is the ability to deal with the fear of change. Anytime a new technology is introduced, whether in the classroom or outside, there is a hesitancy or even a fear of using that technology. Whether it is due to a comfort level of complacency or fear of understanding how to use and apply the new technology, the use of the new technology can help broaden their minds and make them more receptive to change. Developing this skill is vital in today's world. Life moves on with or without you. The ability to open your mind to new ideas, processes, and methods is a skill that is essential to thrive in our ever-changing planet.
Lanny,
Your comments are accurate and I would also add that as students use technology that is new to them, they also learn new skills that emerge form that use. Therefore, as well as valuing the actual outcome, the process should be valued as well.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
The skills vary by the technology used. In the case of web based teaching the student learns self-motivation and is free to learn at their own time. Interactive learning through chat or mobile media allow for interactive learning that requires the skills of cooperation, presentation of arguments, and the ability to critique and respond.
Nicholas,
Good points! So, the soft skills required for professional employment can be well developed in a learning environment that integrates and uses new technology.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
Dr. Reynard,
The use of new technology in student learning helps introduce new skills and develop existing ones. The teacher facilitates active learning using a variety of delivery modes in order to engage and support students in a rich learning environment.
Therefore, students have more opportunities to interact with each other’s and learn new valuable skills in the process. As a result, these students would be more prepared to compete in their professional careers.
-Khal
Khal,
Good points! Also, as far as future employment is concerned, the skills of collaboration and cooperation are vital.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
Self confidence and an adventure for learning new things.
Penelope,
I am not sure to what you are referring here. Could you qualify your response further? Do you mean that you think new technology raises self-confidence in students and facilitates the development of the adventure in learning new things? How exactly have you seen this happen with your students? What about your role as an instructor in this process?
Dr. Ruth Reynard
New technology empowers students when they have learned the skills to use them. They are excited that they can apply them into their classroom participation, but if they are also working, I have received feedback about how these new skills will also help them on the job. Additionally, when writing papers, students will need to know how to verify if the information they accessed is biased or factual. Many times beginning students will reference Wikipedia as a source of information. We as instructors need to point out that anyone can change or add to these sites, and therefore are not reputable. However, many times if you scroll to the bottom of these sites, there are references here that could be reputable and useful information to use in an essay, for example.
Well stated, Joe!
I wrote something similar in the fact that beginning students need to be aware that Wikipedia is not a reputable site because anyone can add or change information there. However, references listed at the bottom of these sites may have good information. It is up to the student to learn the difference between what is reputable as opposed to biased information, with us aiding as a coach. :)
Coleen,
I agree - our guidance is crucial for students so that they can learn to identify credible information and disregard information that is not legitimate to the subject area.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
Coleen,
Yes, looking at sources for any article or information source can be a great way to expand research scope.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
The use of new technology can provide an opportunity for a group learning community to be used for interaction between students to enhance collaboration in a group setting along with the new skill acquired for the application. The more experienced students using technology will be able to assist others in the learning and can also enhance their own level of expertise. This provides for instruction at the multiple levels usually needed for classes today.
Cynthia,
I agree - the additional skills also are valuable beyond the course and will benefit students in ongoing learning and professional employment.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
Identifying and advising students at risk from deficient study skills; a computer-based package for departments
Personalized Advice on Study Skills containing three pieces of software: Questionnaire, Student- View and advisor-view.
LS
For many older students, confidence in their ability to learn new things is the most important outcome of using new technologies. Skills include the ability ascertain one's learning style by experimentation and increased networking via classroom chats, etc.
Suzanne,
Technology can also "intimidate" younger students as well, so no assumptions should be made for any student. Once the students become more familiar with the technology, the confidence can heighten for sure, which is important.
Dr. Ruth Reynard
