Module 4 - Engaging learners with New Strategies and Tools (Graphic Organizers)

The advancement of technology tools continues to be updated to meet the needs of society. Thus the latest multimedia technology promotes the opportunity for online education to communicate in various ways. Research has shown that distance learning can be effective when technology is appropriate for the instructional task, instructors feedback and student interaction( Moore & Thompson, 1990). This technology can also generate the development students understanding of the content knowledge. Moller (2008) explains the dynamic tools: “involve learner one a much deeper level”. Moller (2008) also uses an interesting analogy when he compares the integration of technology to crafting a new recipe. Instructor should wisely choose technology that relates to the course and the skill level of the students. Also, the pedagogues should be selective with regards to which multimedia tools they integrate into the classroom since technology trends continue to change.
The technology tools such as Google documents, Google Scholar, Wikipedia, and e-books can provide the online learner with content resources they need to develop deeper critical thinking skills. Although many other technology tools such as Blogs, Wikipages, discussion boards and chat rooms can provide online learners with the necessary authentic active learning. These tools are also strategies that encourage small group interaction and problem solving (Durrington, et al, 2006). These technological tools along with communication tools such as Skype, emails, social network pages and chat rooms can be the most important strategies and tools for the online learner and instructor. It is an enhancement for the online learning environment that provides engaging communication and builds the learners experience and problem solving skills.

References:

Durrington, V. A., Berryhill, A., & Swafford, J. (2006). Strategies for enhancing interactivity in an online environment. College Teaching, 54(1), 190-193.

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 [Unpublished Paper].

Mooer, M. G. and M. M. Thompson. 1990. The effects of distance learning: A summary of literature (Research Monograph no. 2). University Park, PA: American Center for the Study of Distance Education.