Sunday, October 16, 2011

Concerns about technology

There are several concerns I have with the use of internet technologies in teaching.  First, I feel it is difficult for students to be able to collaborate face-to face and get the necessary help they might need.  True, students can collaborate online, but I don't feel that method is as quick and efficient.

It can be difficult for teachers to give students the immediate feedback they might need because teachers may have an unusually large number of students in online classes.  Also, there is not much opportunity for "quick-checks." 

Students may have trouble with their computers and may not be close enough to a teacher to get the support they need.  It is much easier to complete assignments when an instructor is nearby to assist.  Problems can receive immediate attention when necessary.

There can be an unusually large amount of written material that students need to contend with.  This would  not be the best situation for all types of learners.  Perhaps these difficulties could be alleviated somewhat with watching a class by video or skyping with classmates.

In some school districts, learners may not have access to the technology they need in order to participate in online education.  In that situation, there would not be much of a solution other than waiting for better resources to become available.

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