I realize that we live in an electronic environment. If we dont know the answer to a question we can find it online. Most questions we have about literaly any subject can be researched online and this gives our students an infinate ability to solve problems
We are in the process of changing our instruction methods from traditional lecture, lab & test to a Blended Learning format. The new curriculum will consist of WBT for the students on the own time and then follow up classroom activities and then hands-on practice and demonstration of the learning objective. The new skills learned from our students will be self-motivation to actually complete the WBT, plus inter-active computer skills, writing skills and a higher level of competency of the subject, both from a knowledge level and a practical skills level.
So the approach is much more integrated and technology-rich, Tim. In all it will be an holistic experience for the students so long as the teaching methods have also changed for the instructor. What specifically do you think would have to change from the more conventional methods to these you describe?
Yes, it does, Marvin, provided the instruction is well planned and the assignments well assessed. What do you see as the most important challenges for instructors when supporting and facilitating this kind of student research?
New technology is being implemented in all aspects of the workforce. We work faster with new technology, and if we do not learn how to fully use it both in the work force and in the learning enviornment there will be a definate disconnect between the two.
We have been preparing the Instructor staff for the last year with "Vision 2012". What will the expectations for the "Instuctor of the Future" be. We are excited about the curriculum and the change in student interaction. The "Holistic" experience will give the students the opportunity to be more prepared for their career and life.
This sounds really interesting, Tim. What would you say are the central charcteristics of effective instructors as you move forward with your vision?
I agree, Phillip. To what extent does this influence your content development for your courses?
The Instructor will need to be able to be effective in the following:
Ability to Coach, Tutor, Monitor, Manage and Mentor Students.
Ability to teach a variety of courses
Demonstrate Professional Self Image - Role Model
Have Confidence - Desire - Determination
Have Self Motivation
Communication Skills
Conflict Resolution Skills
Computer Literate
Willingness to Learn
Be open to new ideas
Spitrit of Cooperation
Servant Leadership
Collaboration with Peers
as a tech in todays shop,the use of the internet is a daily thing,we are always testing for new products,all of our manuals are on the manufactures web site,we no longer replace control units but reprogram or update them,again with the internet.todays scan tool is now a lap top computor,who whould of thought.
Good list, Tim. I like to think of future instructors as being "General Practitioners or GPs" as we refer to family practice doctors :) In other words, to be able to facilitate various delivery modes and also to be able to support and collaborate with students and peers to enrich the learning environment and use the technology fully.
So,Sidney, students need the technology skills in your content area if the are to succeed. What benefits do you see directly to their learning within your content area?
New technology can help students in several ways. The most obvious benefit of mobile technology is allowing students to connect to the instructor, classroom, and other students from anywhere. The added convenience encourages students to seek help and learn any time and any location. It helps students develop skills such as networking, communication, collaboration, etc. Technology in the classroom such as smart boards, computer applications, projectors, laptops, and plotters clearly assists with teaching students the skills associated with those technologies. For example, I have taught CAD-related courses for over 5 years. Without the techology in the classroom to match the technology in the field, students would not have the opportunity to learn real-world software and situations.
Yes, Jeremy, so how do you think assignments and methods of evaluation should change to integrate such an array of new and emerging skills in students?
The use on new technology allows the students to use different learning styles for finding information as well as expressing themselves in an actual or virtual classroom.
New technology gives everyone the ability to think more freely but it especially gives the learner an openness and problem-solving method that sets them above the typical employee. Potential employers will find this approach helpful in a world where change is constant. Teaching learners with these new methods is both exciting and wonderful.
Good points, Afrodite. Could you provide examples from your own teaching that has created these kinds of learning experiences for students?
I do agree, multi-tasking has become an integral part of today's life and the new technology will allow the up comming students to beable to learn and grasp knowledge at a faster rate because of the variations in styles of information and skill dilievery.
How valuable a skill is multitasking, in your oninion? If you think it is very valuable, how much value do you assign in terms of the assignment score or overall grade?
I agree that the use of new technology makes it very dynamic and fun adn we kind of get some good laughs as we sometimes struggle together to get it to do what it is we want it to do. I think this builds a LOT of team work because we rarely get to do this type of problem solving,
