The Role of Technology | Origin: EL201
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Online Communication: Engaging and Retaining Online Learners --> The Role of Technology
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
This module emphasizes the importance of social interaction in the online environment. Regardless of academic trends, students still benefit more from face-to-face interactions than from simply watching or reading things online.
Technology in the modern world is a fast process and must be maintained at an average process. The current trends of emojis can be misdirected and misunderstood. Keeping up with new processes that work for online learners is important. Self motivation and writing skills are as important as virtual collaborations.
Technology offers so many ways to communicate, continued education, accessibility, time flexibility amongst other things. Staying current on technology while still building personal connections gives educators a healthy balance.
The power of technology to enhance communication and engagement
Technology can be an amazing tool that opens many doors to learning new things in a convenient way, but with our proper media literacy it can also open the door to misleading information. It is our job as instructors to help student navigate the differences to better the future of the industry.
Technology can be used to enhance learning and create more engagement for in person students. If a student is online learning, sometimes technology can be a hindrance. If you are not able to read their characteristics through the screen
I learned that TMC has both pros and cons. Communication is vital and in this form it can still be a great tool for learners.
The role of technology has increased tremendously over the past years. It is great for students who want to learn online. It's flexible for their convenience. It can take away the personable aspect when it comes to student instructor interaction.
Be careful when communication is through technology and not in-person
Be respectful with your responses.
I have learned that a video message instead of an email introduction may be more effective when introducing a new topic to online students.
I have learned virtual interactions can influence a message or how the person interprets it.
Be mindful of how you may come across and set clear guidelines
Communicate in a respectful constructive manner to help avoid miscommunication.
I learned that it is important to engage and communicate with students through announcements via video, building a personal connection with the students so that they are open to you and timely feedback by making sure that you are responding to student's email ASAP or their questions.
Technology mediated communication offers the student convenience and flexibility and intentionality so students are engaged in the course.
I've learned that technology mediated communication offers convenience, flexibility, increased accessibility, and time to think and respond.
Overall technology meditated communication offers, convenience, and flexibility, but requires clear, thoughtful and intentional. Communication to minimize misunderstandings and assure messages are interpret with intention
Through this module, I learned that technology plays a critical role in shaping the online learning experience, but effective communication remains at the center of student success. I gained a deeper understanding of how online learners differ from traditional students, the importance of staying current with emerging technologies, and the ways technology-mediated communication can impact how messages are delivered and interpreted. I also learned that successful online instruction requires intentionality, flexibility, and a strong focus on building meaningful connections with students.
As an Esthetics Instructor, I intend to apply these lessons by continuing to leverage technology to enhance learning while being mindful of how I communicate with students in digital spaces. I will focus on providing clear expectations, timely feedback, and consistent support to ensure students feel engaged and connected, regardless of the learning environment. I also plan to continue exploring new educational technologies, including AI tools and interactive learning platforms, to improve student engagement and learning outcomes.
Most importantly, this module reinforced that technology should be used to support relationships, not replace them. Moving forward, I will strive to create learning experiences that are both technologically effective and personally meaningful, helping students feel supported as they work toward their educational and professional goals.
