Creating Online Courses

After reviewing the online courses created by CUTL participants I was very heartened by the work done. There were many who were quite "technophobic" at the start of the course and by the end of it they had created potentially engaging, well-structured online courses! I am sure they all had it in them all the time and only needed a little motivation and encouragement! I am looking forward to the next group of course developers!

Changing nature of lecturing in Higher Education

Many of us are realising that when you are employed in an under-resourced institution we end of taking on several roles that we were not aware we "signed on" for. We are teachers, multi-media specialists, instructional designers to name a few. But is it unrealistic to expect this of us? Are our roles changing as society changes or are we simply being exploited. Can we afford to take stock and rebel or will we be left behind in a world where there is high unemployment and others are more than willing to migrate and accept the conditions we choose to reject. Moreover, the skills required of us and skills we can take with us wherever we go so it becomes part of our repertoire of skills. Should this be an incentive? These are questions we must ponder on as higher educaton embraces more technology.

REVELATIONS

The value of face-to-face interaction with regard to certain topics was reinforced for me after reviewing some of the storyboard submissions. I had worked with the feeling that there is a better understanding of what is required when its discussed face to face and everyone can benefit from drafts presented or shared. This seemed to be the case with at least one group so far. I also feel very strongly that persons should be allowed to use their creativity and present the storyboard in a format that they are comfortable with. For example, if you are a graphic person, then by all means use that format. I look forward to seeing the submissions of the second group.

Blended Learning and Good Teaching

Blended learning requires a lot of effort to ensure that students stay engaged and on task. In designing blended courses one needs to pay attention to principles of good teaching, keep the interaction going and recognize that students learn in various ways. The following link provides some more tips:
http://cte.uwaterloo.ca/teaching_with_technology/blended-learning-best-practices.html

Source of Graphic: http://virtualschooling.wordpress.com/2010/02/21/webinar-recording-blended-learning-make-it-work-for-your-district/

New Year New Groups

We are already in February and classes have started in earnest. This year I am paying more attention to theories and research on educational technology. Best practices in the use of video, focussing on outcomes and interaction are some of the issues I am addressing. Keeping on top of it is necessary. I am looking forward to hearing what students have to say about the three I's framework!