Technical Skills | Origin: EL108
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Preparing Students to Become Good Online Learners --> Technical Skills
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
All students learn at a different pace. Any student can struggle with technical skills, so it is important to keep communication open.
In this module I have learned the importance of knowing how to utilize online resources to effectively communicate with students. Additionally, it is important to share the expectations of the class with students and identify any deficits prior to the start of classes. Identifying strengths or lack of knowledge regarding computer literacy leads to teachable moments, improving class success.
The use of various communication tools benefit the students learning experience and enhance the opportunity for them to be engaged in the material.
It is important to use multiple communication tools in an online course. Asynchronous communication where the receiver of communication engages with the communication at their convenience and synchronous communication where the receiver and sender are present on line but may be in different location.
Smart and motivated students can struggle with technical skills in an online learning forum, so tech support is key for success of all students.
To remember that students learn at a different pace. Make sure the fundamentals are included iin the syllabus
It's important to first assess the student's ability and understanding of using technology, such as attaching files, or saving pdfs.
Constant knowledge rather then simple short information.
There are various forms of tools and technology to help aid in the success of the students.
Students have different technology skills. Asking the appropriate questions at the beginning of class is imperative to getting to know your students. Do they know how to fill out a Google doc? Do they know how to use Dropbox?
It is important to know how to navigate different tools to be successful in online learning. As instructor we must make sure our students learn to access and navigate online learning tools to make sure they are not stress and are very successful. Building a good easy to use system will be efficient in learning process.
Assessing students ability to utilize technology, by asking yes or no questions, can assist instructor in knowing how to assist students in becoming more comfortable. Provide different technological activities to be completed.
Again communication, What tools can be used to help each student be successful .
The climate of our online courses need to be student focused and be a constant work in progress.
Technology skills must be evaluated if the teacher is to be successful. Students who cannot use the technology provided, will fall behind an struggle. The struggle may be confused with "lack of knowledge", which would not be the case. It is important to have a "student centered" mindset to ensure students feel part of the learning process.
Student centered learning creates a space for students to learn how they best can receive and apply knowledge.
Utilizing different technology factors in a lesson helps to build a personalized feel to the content and helps to reach all types of learners.
I learned the differences between asynchronous and synchronous communication tools in this module. Both are great tools to utilize for communication in online instruction.
Make sure students are aware on their knowledge of using technology
