Demonstrate advanced knowledge, skills and dispositions relevant to the utilization and management of technologies to support teaching and learning.
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Instructional Tutorials Examples
An important part of leadership in instructional technology is knowledge of tools that are beneficial to instructors in the classroom as well as students. In EDIT 710, Instructional Technology Tools, I had the opportunity to research several tools that can improve student engagement in the classroom and aid in content presentation for instructors. This survey of emerging, and often popular tools, can also assist in the design of improved learning experiences in face-to-face, online, and hybrid deliveries. I found the search for these tools exciting. The challenge for me was how to use them in a college classroom as many of the tools are K-12 focused. As I tested the tools, I acted as student and instructor so I could understand how to insert the technology in my course content.
When you click the button below, you will be taken to the first page of two tutorials, Socrative and PowToon. These tools are my favorite and are useful even in college-level courses. Socrative is an assessment tool that allows dynamic testing for which an instructor can quickly understand what students learned during class on the same day as the lesson. PowTown is an animated cartoon approach to presenting content that is entertaining.
My greatest learning opportunity in this degree program was graphic design (EDIT 744) and production design (EDIT 740 and EDIT 750). These were the first courses that I took in the program and because I had not used either Photoshop or video editing software, I found the activities very challenging.
The examples for graphic design required students to analyze a graphic image, whether a part of a flyer, postcard, or some other printed material. The goal was to improve the image using graphic design principles learned in the course, such as C.R.A.P (contrast, repetition, alignment, and proximity). Previous to this class, I looked at graphic material without considering how much work was a part of designing for consumer user. Before this class, I never considered the fact that I did not want to read a poster that was not engaging or whose font was too small. The goal of each assignment is to ensure that the end product is simple, engaging, and functional for readers. This goal is important because learning materials require clear and understandable content in order for students to learn. Knowing these principles will allow me to improve the design of my course material so that my students are able to receive content easily and not become overwhelmed by unorganized content and/or color schemes that make content hard to see. I specifically use these principles when designing student how-to guides to sign-up for software tools.
The videos were created using Camtasia, a software used to create video tutorials and presentations. In EDIT 740 and EDIT 750, I learned about multimedia learning objects, available production technologies, and how to create podcasts. A variety of methods were used including screencast, animation, and video productions (talking heads). I struggled primarily with adding musical introductions and closings to my videos; however, in creating each one of these instructional videos, I was able to learn more ways to provide engaging content for my students. I use similar videos to reinforce lecture content for students when they are away from the classroom. Students can watch the videos repeatedly while practicing with homework assignments.