Moving Toward Dynamic Technologies

Distance learning entails the educator providing information to students in order to obtain objected knowledge.  Technology is a tool often utilize in the distance learning environment to promote learner engagment.  Mollier (2008) dicussed  technology as a continuum from static to dynamic.  Presently on the static-dynamic continuum, I am currently on the static end of the continuum in means of implementing technology that will obtain knowledge in students.  Technologies classified on the static continuum for example podcasts and Web pages which basicly display data for the learner, but does not ensure the learner's ability to obtain knowledge from the information provided.  Mollier (2008) reasoned that static technologies are often used because of their close relationship to traditional teacher-led instruction.

Moving towards the dynamic continuum will be difficult but the goal is obtainable.  One of the key ideas I have learned from the course to not fear technology. Understanding the multiple use of technology and identifying technology that are capable of promoting critical skills and engagement of the learner. Completely understanding how to use technologies of the dynamic continuum and incorporating dynamic technology in instructional design effectively is important.  


Moller, L. (2008). Static and dynamic technological tools. [Unpublished Paper].
 

Communicaton aids in the growing acceptance of distance education.

Communication aids in the growing acceptance of distance education.

(Simonson, 2008a) discussed the growing acceptance of distance education if fueled by the element of communication, due individual’s increased experience in communicating online. The element of communication has evolved greatly do to the progression of technological tools utilized for communication.  Due to sophisticated technology people can communicate with individuals nationally and abroad, at any time.  No longer do we have to be in the same location as the individual we seek to communicate with.  This is so helpful in the corporate and educational worlds; this aspect alone is a key focus pertaining to the strategy used in university’s offering online programs.  Students see this aspect as a great opportunity to pursue an education along with juggling work, personal, and family life.  Not having to sit in a F2F educational environment and taking time away from the previous stated obligations.  The institutions of Linfield College utilize a technological tool know as the Blackboard.  The institution chose to invest in a social technological tool such as this to increase communication between the professor and the student.

To ensure and utilize communication, many educators may use the ancient method of emails; however social networking is playing a key role in teacher/student dialogue as well as instruction.  Major sources of social networking are Facebook, You Tube, Blogs, Wikis, and Twitter.  A major evolution in communication is Skype, a video system used for distant learning.

(Alan, 2011) explored the use of social media in the teaching of his colleagues.  He basically detailed skepticism about educators using this form of technological tool as a form of communication for teaching purposes more than for personal usage.  Although Alan was basic, there interesting data in his post relating to the use of Social Media for the purpose of teaching tool or personal use was interesting and informing about integrating the worlds of technology and education to increase the advancement of communication.

Resources

Simonson, M. (2008a). Distance education: Higher education, k12, and the corporate world. In Laureate Education, Inc. (Publisher), Principles of distance education. [DVD].

Lew, A. (2011).  Really?  That Many of My Colleagues are using Social Media in their Teaching.  Retrieved from:  http://web2.0teach.blogspot.com/

“How to Communicate in an Online College Environment”.  Retrieved from:  http://www.linfield.edu/dce/blog/online-college-communication/