Technology and multimedia impact online learning environments in that first of all you can’t have an online learning environment without technology and some sort of multimedia. They also help to create a more interactive and engaging learning experience for the students.
The most important considerations an online instructor should make before implementing technology are to make sure that the technology that he/she is choosing is relevant and appropriate for the learning goals of the course, that he/she is comfortable using the technology, and that the students have access to it.
Usability and accessibility of technology tools are important factors in online teaching. Usability is defined as “the effectiveness, efficiency and satisfaction with which users can achieve specified learning goals in a particular environment or with a tool/ resource (Cooper et al, 2007). Accessibility is the ability to adjust to the needs of the learners. These two terms are link so that one is useless without the other. If the accessibility of a technology tool is low, then most likely its usability will be low as well. Instructors should keep this mind especially if they have students with disabilities.
As I move forward in my career as an instructional designer, I am not quite sure if I want to do corporate or education yet. But the technology tools that most appeal to me are course management systems, wikis, blogs, and audio/video elements. Using the tips and best practices that I've learned in this course, I am positive that I will be able to successful utilize these tools no matter what area I am in.
Resources
Boettcher, J. V., & Conrad, R. (2010). The online teaching survival guide: Simple and practical pedagogical tips. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.
Cooper, M., Colwell, C., & Jelfs, A. (2007). Embedding accessibility and usability: Considerations for e-learning research and development projects. ALT-J: Research in Learning Technology, 15(3), 231–245.
Yolanda, I also enjoyed the irony of discussing how technology impacts online learning. There wouldn't be any online learning without technology! I appreciated that you mentioned course management systems. Of course, they are the most basic tool of all, and I did not even think of mentioning it! A CMS gives structure to everything we do online as instructional designers. Without a CMS, we are left with a blog or a discussion forum, but nothing to tie things together.
ReplyDeleteYolanda,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading your reminder that we need to choose technology that is relevant and appropriate. We need to also make sure that there are choices for the tools since some learners may not be able to access certain technology options. This also gives each learner the opportunity to find what works for them to demonstrate their understanding. I have also really enjoyed learning about and using a course management system (CMS). I have really enjoyed updating my CMS and exploring the many options. Good Job!
Yolanda,
ReplyDeleteGood post. Your implementation considerations are spot on.
Stephen
Yolanda,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed your post. There was a time where content development and delivery was solely provided through word applications and hardcopy. Now, with the inclusion of technology, the realm of delivery has broaden to extend exposure and egagement amongst learners. I believe that you are correct in stating that your tools of preference would be well received in both the corporate and education environments.