Maintaining Student Engagement and Motivation (etect 674)

The discussion that the class had on Thursday via talkshoe was very beneficial.  Dr. Newberry, facilitated the conversation and did a great job.  I learned some interesting things on how the online class is ran and how some instructors engage and motivate students.  In the online environment, its difficult to see if students are actually excited and anxious about the work that they are doing and learning.  I believe the communication between students and the instructor is very vital for all parties, especially the student.  With the increase in communication technologies such as, skype,talkshoe, chatrooms, and more it makes communication fun and engaging.

I’m a big fan of instructor student communication in a online setting.  I have took other online classes at previous universities, and the way it’s facilitated at Cal State is far more motivating.  The interaction between students is great.  The conversations between the blogs is a good way to keep the interactions between the students positive.  Also, when we receive assignments back there is feedback from the instructor (Newberry). This tells me that the instructor is interested in seeing you succeed in his/her class.  Often times, if you miss a key point, they will let you add it in after the assignment has been graded which I think is very cool!

ADA Assignments (etec 674)

Assignment 1: Evaluate an eLearning webpage for accessibility issues

Name of evaluator: Gibran Carter

Url of page being evaluated: http://studyonthebeach.com/csusb/classes/winter2010/etec_674_win_2010/media/eLearningADATestPage.html 

Explain your procedure: 

I evaluated the studyonthebeach.com website provided by Dr. Newberry.  I dissected every aspect of the page, colors, links, and the user interface to see if it is compliant with ada standards.  I played the audio, video links as well to make sure they worked. 

List Any Problems Found: 

The first thing I noticed was that the procedure didn’t make sense, and I think the terminology was off. The next aspect of the page I noticed was the color of all the links.  It should just be one color all across the board.  Also, the links were not centered correctly on in the tables. Also, I noticed the audio file was very low.  The video quality wasn’t as sharp as it could possibly be. Also on the video you can’t adjust the volume or start and stop, or even pause the video. Lastly I noticed the information at the bottom was very difficult to read.  The colors were not professional and hard on the eyes. 

Explain How to Correct These Problems: 

First, I would use the same color font consistently on the entire page with the exception of links.  I would link the email address and use the same color links on the page.  The table could be organized more efficiently and centered correctly. At the bottom all of the text in the information section should just be solid black.  The audio is very low and it should be adjusted so the student can hear it clearer.  I believe the video could have been higher quality, maybe even HD.  On the video there needs to be the buttons to play, pause, and adjust volume control. 

Assignment 2: Planning for ADA compliance. 

Choose two ways of creating instructor created presentations and that you might use and explain how you will ensure that they are ADA compliant. As a suggestion, you might create an ADA checklist that you could use for the presentation type. 

Creating a Podcast 

Guidelines to create a Podcast that is ADA compliant

• The sound must be loud and clear
• Record in a room where there is no distracting noises
• The message being delivered needs to be clear and understandable
• Provide a link where the student can download podcast
• Have a text copy of the podcast so students can read it as well
• The audio file format should be universal (so it can work on any computer) 

Creating a Powerpoint that is ADA compliant 

• The background needs to be simple and easy on the eyes, not a lot of graphics on background.
• If you have a dark background you should have light colored text.  If you have a light colored background you should use dark text
• No cookie-cutter sound effects between the slide transitions
• Provide an audio file that is separate of the powerpoint
• Ensure that the link to the powerpoint video works
• The information should be short and directly to the point

Annotated Bibliography (Session 7 – etec 674)

Citation 1: Virtual reality for collaborative e-learning 

Citation

Virtual reality for collaborative e-learning
Computers & Education, Volume 50, Issue 4, May 2008, Pages 1339-1353
Teresa Monahan, Gavin McArdle, Michela Bertolotto 

Summary 

Since the World Wide Web has come to surface, so has online education.  Online education has made it real easy for people to obtain their education in the comforts of their homes.  In the beginning stages of e-learning, CD-ROMS were used and users could work at their own pace to get work accomplished.  Currently we use Learning Management Systems (LMSs).  LMS provide full online courses.  Professors can communicate, distribute class materials to students, and course administration tools for instructors.  The LMS is very effective because it can help professors easily manage and control their online classrooms.  LMS can be very effective for students as well.  Some systems have blogs, chat rooms, and instant message.  This is engaging for the students because they can interact virtually with other class mates. 

Another development in e-learning is on mobile platforms such as PDAs, mobile phones, and laptops.  Each of these devices has their own unique capabilities.  For example an instructor could send a text message to students regarding an important update.  They are also utilizing the web which has a vast amount of educational games which also enhances the students learning capabilities.  There is a system called CLEV-R.  This is a course management system that has a 3-D environment that can be used for real-time teaching.  CLEV-R is effective because it engages the students because of the virtual world and tools.  

Review 

The internet has definitely changed and enhanced they way we pursue education.  Now that we have moved away from education CD’s and into course management systems, online education has sky rocketed!  LMS have made it very convenient for the students to learn and the teachers to teach.  The teachers have everything right in the palm of their hands.  They can post discussions, submit grades, send materials, and a bunch of other things need to run a successful class. It’s pretty cool that you we can obtain our education behind a computer, and without leaving your home.  This is great for the working people and stay-at home moms.  In order for a person to succeed in a online school, they need to be self disciplined and be a self motivator. 

With the development of CLEV-R, we are making a shift into a more virtual learning environment. The main component of CLEV-R is that it has a 3-D environment. This will benefit the students because there is a higher level of interaction with other students.  Interaction with others in the e-learning environment is important for the user experience.  The ultimate goal for e-learning would be to bring your entire classroom online and not miss a beat.

Citation 2:  Flexible design for the future of distance learning 

Citation

Flexible design for the future of distance learning
Procedia – Social and Behavioral Sciences, Volume 1, Issue 1, 2009, Pages 358-363
Şirin Karadeniz 

 Summary 

Technology innovations have affected e-learning and teaching methods in the distant world of education. Distant education referring to, online learning has increased tremendously in past 5-7 years.  Through this, other types of teaching platforms have been developed and surfaced within the educational arena.  Technologies used in distance learning changed faster as the digital age became more developed.  One main change was the enhancements of technology inside the classrooms.  Computers, overhead projectors, ipods to name a few.  The Distance Learner concept gives emphasis on learner and learning process.  The internet, teleconference, television are ways the Distance Learner can be effective.  

Today most educational institutions still use traditional printed media.  Printed media consists of textbooks, journals etc.   As technology evolves it will aid us to use printed media as well as other advanced tools and devices.  ELearning is used around the world by all sorts of organizations such as, colleges and international companies.  Computer based learning allows users to work at their own pace.  This typically is software installed on the computer and consists of tutorials.  A positive aspect of this is that you can receive instant results and feedback for the user.  What is used in many educational institutions today is called Blended learning.  This consists of having a online or technological piece as well as the traditional in the classroom or face to face contact.  Blended learning  keeps the interaction with the students and teachers and yet incorporates technology as well. It is important for people to become flexible in their learning environments and to become adaptive to new technologies.  

Review 

The enhancements of technology have changed the way we learn and teach in the classrooms.  It has been a positive impact on students and teachers.  Teachers have taken different approaches to teach.  Students are experimenting with different devices and different learning arenas.  The ability to communicate across the world with other classrooms with the use of teleconferences, or using the webcam makes the learning experience more exciting and engaging for all.  Printed media will be around for a long time, but as we keep advancing in technology we will see the “textbook” phase out the education world will be all digital.  Blended learning is good because it still captivates the students learning experience.  One of the most important key components of learning, is the student interaction.  I believe that blended learning does just that, as well as the technical side of it.

Citation 3:  The myths about e-learning in higher education

Citation

British Journal of Educational Technology    March 2010, Vol. 41 Issue 2, p199-212, 14p                                                                                                       Njenga, James Kariu, Fourie, Louis Cyril Henry                                                  

Summary

E-learning has taking the education field by storm.  Many institutions offer online programs where students can access their class via the internet.  E-learning has had some issues and concerns.  Some educators propose that educational institutions should step back and reflect on critical questions regarding the use of technology in teaching and learning. A question that arose was, “is e-learning being adopted to improve teaching and learning or because it is a ‘virtual fashion’ with promising progress in the market place? Another question came to mind such as, “what went wrong in higher education, to require the power of technology?”

A major myth about e-learning is that, e-learning can replace human interaction.  This fallacy that one instructor could reach many students at the same time by using e-learning was unfortunately formed by the application of the economics of distance education to e-learning (Hulsmann, 2004), together with an added hype of the constructivist notion of transferring the responsibility of learning to the learners and letting the learners take control of their learning process.  Students enrolled in an e-learning course must form their own perceptions and judgments about online learning. 

Review

E-learning is a huge part of our education system.  Although e-learning is still fresh, it’s safe to say that it will be around a long time.  Educators and students need to adapt to the functionalities and capabilities of online learning.  Many questions, issues and concerns will arise when we discuss online learning.  Some educators are starting to formulate their own thoughts and beliefs about e-learning.  I believe this is good because we need intelligent and bright individuals to pick apart the e-learning system to enhance it as we go more in depth in this new area of education.

 Citation 4:  Methods of adapting digital content for the e-learning process via mobile devices 

Citation

Methods of adapting digital content for the e- learning process via mobile devices
Procedia – Social and Behavioral Sciences, Volume 1, Issue 1, 2009, Pages 2673-2677
J.L. Gimenez López, T. Magal Royo, Jesus García Laborda, F. Garde Calvo 

Summary 

The speedy development of communication technology and information has enhanced new ways of e-learning.  The content and resources that the student has access to due to the technology enhancements are phenomenal.  Online content via mobile devices such are immersed in constant evolution and development.  The small screens of mobile devices makes mobile learning fun and innovative.  Students are use using small portable devices to download content fast and easy for the learning experience. Some advantages to using mobile devices for learning are, easy access, free knowledge, flexibility and the ability to get any type of information needed at any time. If a student is enrolled in an online class, he or she can access information when press of a few buttons from their device.  It is difficult to find student without a mobile device.  Whether it be a phone, ipod, or a laptop.  

The development of applications for mobile devices is controlled by three platforms, C++, J2ME, and Flash Lite.  One of the main objectives in designing a successful application is to have an easy to use interface for the user.  Especially for mobile devices because the screens and buttons are smaller.  Certain devices and phones have made the user experience quite more exciting.  For example, on the Apple Iphone the user can zoom in and out of web pages and you can view websites just how they would look on a regular computer. 

Review 

The way that technology and mobile devices are evolving is definitely taking a turn for the best.  Students are taking full advantage of their mobile devices and are turning them into portable learning machines.  The ability to have access to information at the palm of your hands is powerful.  Mobile learning for teachers is a positive.  They are now integrating technologies in the online environment, as well as in the classroom to make it a more enjoyable learning experience. 

The development of applications is evolving daily and it will continue to grow.  Developers are being innovating and they are developing new concepts and ideas to make mobile devices for e-learning easier and more powerful for the human experience.  Apple has definitely set the bar high with the Apple Iphone.  It is by far the most advanced mobile device on the market and the user interface is great!  E-learning is here to stay, and will continue to grow and as the technology and innovations increase. 

 Citation 5:  To Be or Not to Be: E-Learning

Citation

T+D; Jan2010, Vol. 64 Issue 1, p10-10, 1p                                                                                                                                                                                                           Ketter, Paula                                         

Summary

As we continue to dive deeper into e-learning, many educators are questioning the platforms, techniques,  and practices that are being used. A very unique question has surfaced and the question asks, “is the e-learning of today essential to teach the important skills of tomorrow?”  Some educators argue that current e-learning efforts are ineffective. While others argue that e-learning is not only quicker and cheaper to deploy than traditional forms of learning, but I can be much more effective.There was a study conducted that web 2.0 activities involving user generated content and collaboration were scarce, except in academia.  The debate about online education will be ongoing for a long time.  There are many views about the effectiveness of e-learning, and as people get more in tuned about e-learning we will most likely see a positive shift with the online world of education.

Review

This article was unique because it showed some views and opinions about e-learning and the future of it.  There are always going to be debates and questions about e-learning.  I believe the reason is because; one day e-learning can possibly take over the “traditional classroom.”  Some people do not want to see the day when all education is on the internet and that is the only way they can learn.  On the other hand, many people probably feel just the opposite.  There are pros and cons to e-learning.  One pro is that students can work on their own time and do the work according to their schedule.  A con would be the limited face to face interaction between the student and other classmates as well as the instructor facilitating the course.  I believe that e-learning is here to stay and that it will never fully replace the physical classroom.  The good thing is, a person will always have that option to learn in an e-environment.

Forms of Evaluations (etec 674)

I created a 5 question quiz for basic photoshop users.  The quiz consists of  5 questions.  Each question is worth 2 points each, which totals to a total of 10 points on the quiz.  I also created a rubric using microsoft word which was pretty basic, but very clear to the student to understand.  Click here for quiz.  Click here for rubric

Session 5 -New Media (etec 674)

The new media I’m going to discuss for elearning is facebook.  Facebook is a social networking website where you can connect and reunite with friends online (www.facebook.com).  Giving people the power to share and make the world more open and connected is the model that facebook is based off of.  Currently Facebook has millions of users world wide.  One key aspect of Facebook is it’s privacy.  Once you create your personal page, you can adjust your privacy settings and allow only your friends to view your profile, pictures and etc.  This is a cool feature because random strangers can’t view your profile and or contact you.  Also, Facebook is 100 % free!

I still believe the Facebook idea is still young and fresh.  The power of the Facebook platform can be utilized in many settings.  One major setting is distant learning or one can say elearning.  Online institutions could facilitate an entire class via Facebook.  Within the Facebook platform, you can create a separate page called a “Fan” page.  Many musicians, groups, or teams utilized this “fan” page feature.  What is unique about this, is that, if someone is surfing through Facebook and they find that page interesting, they can click on a button and become a “fan” of that page.  This means that any updates the originator makes on their page, all of the fans can view it.  This would be a form of asynchronous communication.  I can possibly see Facebook being integrated more in the online arena of education.  An example of this could be to create a fan page and title it Education 101.  The professor can then, facilitate the class world wide.  The professor could post a question and then receive the answers via the forum. Also, if this wasn’t a formal class, this could be used as a potential media to gather insights and data from around the globe.  Our current cms (Blackboard) has the discussion form features, however it does not have the “fan” page feature.  Also, in order to be able to log into blackboard, the student needs to be enrolled in the university.

Session 4 (etec 674)

1. Our text categorizes electronic information into four types: 

Textual Information

Presentation Graphics Slide Show

Spreadsheets and Databases

Multimedia objects 

Provide an example or multiple examples of effective use of each type of electronic information for eLearning. Be sure to provide specific information about what makes your indicated use “effective”. Explaining effectiveness in light of one of the media theories as presented in this session (or another media theory you prefer) is expected. 

A. Textual Information:  The first thing that comes to mind when discussing elearning and textual Information is a course syllabus.  The information provided is only communicated through the text.  Nothing flashy, no images are within this type of media.  This type of media is used for information and reference. 

B.  Presentation Graphics Slide Show:  Slide shows are used on the computer screen for presenting or showcasing a topic.  Unlike textual information, a key component that makes slide shows effective are images and sometimes audio.  Also, the less text on graphic slides the better.  A person does not want to overwhelm the audience with a lot of text to read.  Most people are visual, and a picture can tell a thousand words.

 C.  Spreadsheets and Databases:  In an eLearning setting, spreadsheets can be used to design lesson plans.  This can be helpful for the instructor.  Spreadsheets can be used to keep items and important information in order.  Also, they can be used for attendance.  This wouldn’t be considered media rich as it is very static  and simple, and used to be organized in an eLearning environment. 

D.  Multimedia objects:  I consider this type of electronic information to be very media rich.  Multimedia objects consists of animations, pictures, videos, and drawings.  The cool aspect of multimedia objects is that it can be placed in text information, spreadsheets, slideshows and more.  You mostly see these objects in power point presentations.  Multimedia objects can turn a basic power point into a creative and professional piece of work. 

2. Our text goes into some very specific detail on the proper formatting of textual information. Explain what you believe to be the most important guidelines for your use of textual information that are provided in the text and then create a sample text document (other than an announcement) that demonstrates the best practices of formatting textual information. Be sure to explain the purpose of the document and who the intended users are if that isn’t obvious from the document itself. 

I chose to design a simple half-paged syllabus.  It is textual information, and very easy to read.  I made the key parts very bold and I colorized the main headings.  I didn’t go overboard on details, just short and simple. Here is my sample syllabus (click on link). 

3. What is the difference between synchronous and asynchronous communication as it is used in eLearning and how do you choose between the two for a given task? 

Synchronous is face-to-face, such as in a physical classroom environment. Asynchronous is in the form of a letter or email, not face to face interaction. Depending on what the task is at hand depends on which one to use.  For example if you need to instruct your class that the meeting time has changed, you would send an email to notify the students and this is called asynchronous.  If you need to meet online with a professor that lives in another country, then you could set up a video conference and this is called synchronous. 

4. What technologies does your CMS/LMS have to support synchronous communication?

The technologies our cms support for synchronous communication are real-time chat room.  The chat can be recorded and later viewed if a student missed that particular session. 

5. What technologies does your CMS/LMS have to support asynchronous communication?

 For asynchronous our cms supports a discussion board and email.  The discussion board is available for the length of the class and can be viewed at any time. Also, everyone in the class can see your posts. The email is available and is good to use if you need to speak to the instructor directly and don’t want others to see your conversation. 

6. Describe a task or assignment you could use in an online class that would use either asynchronous or synchronous communication. Explain the task or assignment, identify the technology you would use to support the activity and explain why you chose that technology. Explain what you would do to ensure that the activity was successful. 

If I was teaching a graphic design class and I wanted to demonstrate how to crop an image, I would before hand create a “how to video”, (vod-cast) then make that readily available to the students to view.  I would have the students set up a Skype account and then we could discuss the video and address questions.  This would be considered synchronous because we will be using online chat-video- and phone conferencing in real time.  I could measure the effectiveness by analyzing the assignments turned in. Also, during the skype meeting I can ask questions and see if everyone was able to crop the picture using the supplied video.

Guest Speaker (etec 674 – session 3)

I can honestly say that I enjoyed using talkshoe on Thursday night with the class.  Unlike Skype, there was no background noise, static, or any other sounds that you would normally here.  I think tht talkshoe does a really good job on the tech end of it.  The main thing I liked was there was no interruptions during the conference call.  Even if someone got booted or dropped from the call, you really couldn’t notice that except for the words in the chat room.  As the students posted their questions at the end, Prof. Newberry did a great job facilitating those questions to our speaker.

I enjoyed listening to the Dr. Monaghan and his views and information.  I believe that e-learning (distant learning) will not take away from face-face instruction.  Mainly, because some people are still accustomed to face-face.  However, e-learning provides an alternative to the traditional setting.   However, one must be a self starter when taking classes online.  There isn’t anyone their to tell you to do something or given you verbally directives.  One key trait a person must possess is to be disciplined when taking online classes.  Mr. Monaghan had stressed that the support behind the university blackboard is high, and I think that is wonderful.  It’s showing that the university is backing technolgoy and e- learning 100%.  The possibilites with online learning are endless.  I do think that we are barely scratching the surface when we have our classes.  We are moving in the right direction and with the use of talkshoe, it definitely shows.

Session 2

 Question #1

1. Distribution of course information
2. Student-instructor and student-student communications
3. Student interaction with course resources
4. Online testing and grading 

Question #2

The LMS we currently use is blackboard.  Using blackboard for my online courses on a day to day basis has been very easy to grasp.  Blackboard has a very user friendly interface.  It’s design is very simple and clean.  One major thing I notice is that you don’t ever have to click more than twice to get to where you need to be.  The course information is in a table format and easy to read.  Also, if the instructor provides a website within the course information, he or she can add a link and once the link is clicked a new window will open.  In addition to adding links, the instructor can add the course syllabus as a Microsoft document and you can download it and print it from there.  Some of the resources can assists first time students using blackboard.  There is a user manual that has tons of helpful information and how blackboard works.  Blackboard also has a discussion page where you can post blogs.  Students or instructors can respond to your post.  Also, blackboard has a chat room where it’s “live”.  The instructor can have students log into the chat room at set time and the teacher can facilitate the class through the chat room.  Blackboard has a feature where the instructor can create surveys/tests and the students can fill in those and it will get sent to the desired source.  The instructor can post grades on blackboard and the student can view his or her grades for the class and the assignments.

 Question #3 

Step 1 – Ask yourself why

The instructor must determine if elearning is the right choice for the particular course of study.  Elearning isn’t for everyone, and it’s difficult for some to grasp the concept of online learning 

Step 2 – Make a commitment

You must be dedicated and ready to commit to using technology.  The instructor must be prepared and ready to put hard work in.  Also, they must be able to adapt to new software and be able to implement new techniques as technology evolves. 

Step 3 – Develop a new vision for your course and how you teach

As an instructor, he or she needs to be able to gather the right materials for teaching online.  Just because they are teaching a online class, they don’t want to provide to much unnecessary information to the student.  They need to plan accordingly and prepare for that particular subject being taught. 

Step 4 – Determine the resources available to you

Its good to utilize all the resources the university has to offer you.  It’s good to get with tech support to make sure you have the top software and hardware readily available to you to teach your class.  It’s also a good thing to talk to your department “heads” and get advice and have a good working relationship with them.

Step 5 – Acquire new technology skills and develop new instructional methods

Continuing your education is vital for online instructors who wish to stay on top of their teachings.  Two organizations are recommended for educators.  The NCATE (National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education) and the ISTE (International Society for technology in Education).  These organizations are valuable to educators because they have up to date information on the new technologies and tons of resources for teachers. 

Step 6 – Plan

You must plan and structure your classes accordingly. Your goals for the class should also included in your plan.  Plan before you try to execute and facilitate your class, so that it will run smoothly.

 Question# 4

One way communication involves sending a message without provisions for receiving a reply, such as announcements and emails.  Two way communication occurs when messages are both sent and received.  The LMS uses discussions or discussion boards, and or chat rooms witch is another form of two way communication.

The current CMS we use is blackboard.  For one-way communication, the instructors can post announcements.  Once the announcement is posted then the entire class can view that particular post.  Another example of one way communication is email.  Via blackboard, students in the class can email classmates as well as the instructor. Two-way communication style is a bit different.  We can use the chat room inside blackboard.  This is cool because it’s real time conversation and you can have a entire class in the chat room.  We also use the discussion boards to facilitate the class.  The instructor and students can view posts, make new posts, and respond to posts.

Introduction (etec 674)

Hello and welcome to my blog!  My name is Gibran Carter.  Born and raised in San Bernardino.  When I was 15, my family decided to move to Chicago where I spent my high school years and college years (which was very exciting).  I have a wonderful wife and we have been married for 2 years now.  I have my Bachelors in Graphic Design and I’m currently working on my Masters in Instructional Technology.  Currently, I teach graphic design at SiaTech charter school in San Bernardino.  We work with teenagers/young adults who dropped out of traditional high school.  Now they have the opportunity to receive their high school diploma.  It has become a very rewarding experience for me to see my students succeed and receive their education.  In my spare time, I love to work out, play basketball, hang with the family and travel.  Also, technology has become a part of me as I’m always purchasing the latest gadgets and always seeing what is the newest product coming to the market! 

The actions I prefer are online classes.  I think online classes are the best!  Learning online is easy, beneficial and convienent.  It’s really cool to be disciplined and do your work when you feel like doing it.  A good tool to use while learning online is the use of  “Skype”.  Skype is an online company where you can make and recieve calls via your computer.  You can have conference calls of up to 10 or more people at once.  An online instructor can use this and facilitate an entire class effectively.  Also, podcasts have become a very effective teaching tool.  The teacher will record audio for that particular assignment then the student will do the work assigned.

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