Mid-South Instructional Technology Conference
Teaching, Learning, & Technology
The Challenge Continues
March 30-April 1, 2003
The Challenge of Teaching Educational Technology Courses Online
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By: Marge Maxwell |
Abstract
Not only is teaching technology ONLINE to teachers (or teacher candidates) who don’t know much about technology a challenge, taking it a step farther, i.e., incorporating technology into teaching and learning is truly a unique challenge. Educational technology courses at Western Kentucky University incorporate common elements such as orientation activity, discussion boards, online exams, and student projects which include webpages, slideshows, databases, spreadsheets, clay animation, and newsletters. However, video computer demonstrations, graduate research slideshows, a CD library of Authentic Learning Units and an Information Portal to Internet Resources are unique elements to our program.
Description
However, video computer demonstrations, graduate research slideshows, a CD library of Authentic Learning Units and an Information Portal to Internet Resources are unique elements to our program.
- Using the Camtasia program, video computer demonstrations are created and distributed to students in which students can watch and hear computer demonstrations on their own computer at home as if they were in class on campus. Demonstrations are created as software tutorials, for assignment directions, numerous How To’s, and more.
- Graduate research projects include a PowerPoint which must be presented either on campus or by video. The assignment is like writing a research paper but the body of the paper is placed in the notes of the PowerPoint while the slides contain a brief outline of the notes.
- All students create a Thematic Technology Integration Unit (or Authentic Learning Unit). All units are compiled onto a CD Library which is distributed to all students (with student permission) at the end of the semester.
- Another unique assignment is called the Top Ten in which students surf the Internet and select any ten websites (name, URL, grade level, category, description) useful to educators. These sites are entered into an online database, thereby creating a large Information Portal available to WKU students.
Proceeding