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!

Trust the Process

Its been almost two months since my last post and this post is dedicated to a special group. I thought Day 2 was quite productive and entertaining as the group presentations on tools were varied and informative. The role play created much amusement but I was really impressed overall with the commitment of all the group members. I realised that after the presentations many are now contemplating how they can enhance their courses, particularly in light of the limited time they all have. The issues of time management and a lack of skills in some areas are real, however these issues can be dealt with in time- trust the process. I look forward to engaging with the group as we continue to plan.

Proof of the Pudding is in the eating...

Well bloggers, online courses have been developed amidst much weeping and wailing. Test courses were lost, files could not be uploaded, videos were not displayed and every imaginable calamity that can affect a harried student working on an assignment mere hours before the deadline, occurred. Even in the swirl of the stress and chaos, you all persevered. I peeked in every now and then and gave a bit of comfort and encouragement here and there but by and large most of you sweated and did the work and I was impressed. I can safely say that most of the courses were clear, practical and aligned with objectives and context. There is much that can be done to improve because there is always room for improvement but I am satisfied that most of you understand what is required to develop a blended course, you understand how and when technology can and should be used in a course and you understand the constraints of your circumstances. I feel certain that if I had not given the assignment of preparing a blended course then you would not have fully appreciated all the issues involved from process to pedagogy and technology. In other words, the proof of the pudding is in the eating...

Working on your online course: Planning is the key

Its been a few weeks since my last post. I have been monitoring the progress (or lack of progress in some cases) of the development of your blended courses. I have had a few queries and some suggestions so I know some people are working hard to meet the April 11 deadline. I am hoping that the storyboards helped guide you so you were clear on what learning outcomes would be addressed. Always remember that you need to have a plan BEFORE you start to develop your course otherwise you may find yourself doing things in a very haphazard manner and really not meeting objectives. If you are having any problems you need to sort them out early, please don't wait until the deadline has arrived to communicate in a panic. You really don't need the stress caused by last minute work.