Technology and online learning experiences
Whether you instruct in an online or face-to-face setting, technology and online learning experiences can be powerful instructional tools. As you interact in this week's discussion, make sure to draw from the readings to back up your points.
1. Share and explain apprehensions you have about using technological tools and/or teaching adults online.
2. Explain approaches to keep in mind with using technology with adult learners.
3. Select one or two quotes from the readings that really resonated with you. Perhaps the quote(s) you select is something you strongly agree or disagree with...
1. list the quote(s)
2. explain why the points are important to keep in mind.
my thoughts on using technology with adult learners:
Apprehensions about using technological tools and/or teaching adults online
I have a few apprehensions about using technological tools and/or teaching adults online. First, I worry about the digital divide. Not everyone has equal access to technology, so I want to make sure that my online courses are accessible to everyone. Second, I worry about the potential for distractions. It can be easy to get sidetracked when you're learning online, so I want to make sure that my courses are engaging and that the technology is used in a way that facilitates learning. Finally, I worry about the lack of face-to-face interaction. I think that face-to-face interaction is important for building relationships and for providing support to learners, so I want to make sure that I find ways to compensate for the lack of face-to-face interaction in my online courses.
Approaches to keep in mind with using technology with adult learners
Here are some approaches to keep in mind when using technology with adult learners:
- Start with the learner. What are the learners' needs and goals? What are their technological skills? Once you understand the learners, you can start to choose the right technologies for your courses.
- Use technology to facilitate learning. Technology should be used to enhance learning, not to replace it. Choose technologies that will help learners to achieve their learning goals.
- Keep the learner engaged. Technology can be a great way to keep learners engaged. Use interactive activities, simulations, and games to keep learners interested and motivated.
- Provide support. Even though you're not in the classroom with your learners, you can still provide support. Use online forums, chat, and video conferencing to stay connected with your learners.
- "Technology is not a silver bullet, but it can be a powerful tool for learning." (Chapter 1)
- "Adult learners are self-directed and motivated to learn." (Chapter 2)
- "The key to effective online learning is to create a sense of community." (Chapter 3)