I would like to hear a somewhat summative reflection on your experience in the course so far, particularly related to the technology-related tasks you have tackled.
Let me begin by saying that so far, I have learned a lot, and I have really enjoyed the course overall. I'm a little less excited about the book reading than the hands-on material, but have caught glimpses of its relevance, and agree with the authors about the importance of understanding and being able to speak intelligibly on the history of the field.
How challenging have you found them?
The activities have not been challenging for me, but I don't think that is a bad thing. Internet technology has become so intuitive in nature, that I think it ought to be fairly easy for users to comprehend and accomplish. I would also add that the programs which are too challenging will probably not develop a huge user-base.
What support you did not get that you would have appreciated (or what support did you get that you did appreciate)?
I think that the material and amount of information provided so far has been sufficient. I might also take this time to recognize Justin McCandless, and his efforts to help students by answering questions and providing visual "tutorials" when needed. I might also take this time to mention that I have noticed a few inconsistencies or errors within the course material which could benefit from detailed review and correction. By way of suggestion, I think that Diigo is a much more exciting social bookmarking tool for education than delicious, in case you are considering course improvements.
Are excited, frustrated, both?
I'm very excited to implement some of the web-based technologies that I have learned about in this class.
Do you think you will find ways to incorporate some of what we have done in your professional work?
Yes. I have especially been thinking about using podcasts as supplemental tutorials for students, blogs to provide students a paperless way to write reflections about class topics or reading assignments, and a wiki to compile resources for my classes.
For those of fairly (or brand) new to this masters program, how do you feel about this as a first or early course?
I think this is a great first course. It is probably safe to assume that students coming in have the basic skills required to comprehend and complete assignments. It also contains instruction about a variety of web-based technologies which fosters excitement for the program.
You make a great point that internet technology especially web 2.0 has become pretty intuitive. The use of drag and drop, Icons are pretty similar (Disk for save, Paper for new, etc.) This really does help the learning curve!
ReplyDeleteFirst I have to mention how nice and neat your blog posting is--very nice and appealing :-)
ReplyDeleteI agree that if certain technologies are too difficult to use and navigate, those are the ones that most likely will not get much use. I think I was different in that some of the technology was new for me and a little challenging, but once I figured out how to work them I now realize how easy they are to use. Also, I found the same three technology applications useful for my classroom and plan to implement them in the fall--a blog, a wiki, and podcasting. They definitely add to what we do in the classroom and seem as though they will make certain things more efficient.
I like the thought that the book gives us glimpses into our own areas of expertise. That's something that I'm having to get used to as a grad student. I keep thinking that the classes will only apply to my field, more like an undergrad class. Thinking about getting little peeks into different areas, topics, etc. is a great way to think about it.
ReplyDeleteI wanted to tell you that I really enjoy reading your posts. You always say things so precisely and clearly; it really helps me organize my own thoughts!