Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Moving Toward Dynamic Technologies

In the article, McGreal and Elliott (2008) examine some of the latest multimedia technologies used in online classes. The article also offers suggestions for the use of the multimedia in an instructional setting. Moller (2008) states that dynamic tools: “involve learner on a much deeper level” (pp.1). Moller (2008) uses an interesting analogy when he compares the integration of technology to crafting a new recipe (pp.2). The instructor should use his experience with technology to wisely choose technology with which he is familiar and according to the skills of his students. Although, Fahy (2008) states: “technological trends tend to translate rapidly from culture to the (virtual classroom),” pedagogues have to be selective with regards to which multimedia tools they integrate into the classroom (pp.168).

Moller (2008) writes: “technology can be conceptualized along a continuum of static to dynamic” (pp.1). Furthermore, not all technologies create an active learner; web pages, podcasts, eBooks, Google scholar may contribute to learner’s knowledge, but they are static tools. Learning will be generated as expected in a traditional environment, where the learner is a passive receiver of information. Moller (2008) states that static technologies allow learner “to capture information,” and the reason they are popular is because they “mimic traditional environment” (pp.1), a zone of comfort for many educators.

As I read McGreal and Elliott’s (2008) article, I was mentally marking multimedia tools that I can use in my web design and eBusiness classes. Since I prepare my students to be integrated into the 21st century work force, there is a need for students to learn to communicate and work in concert. Dynamic tools involve learning on a “deeper cognitive level” (Moller, 2008, pp.1) by preparing students to be able to construct knowledge not provided by the instructor.

Reference:

Fahy, H. (2008). Characteristics of Interactive Online Learning Media. The theory and practice of online learning (T. Anderson, Ed.). Edmonton, AB: Athabasca University Press.

McGreal, R. & Elliott , M.,(2008). Technologies of Online Learning (E-Learning). The theory and practice of online learning (T. Anderson, Ed.). Edmonton, AB: Athabasca University Press.

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 [Unpublished Paper].

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