4 Concepts of IT
- 1. Instructional Technology As E-learning instructors you are working in the field of Instructional Technology. Instructional Technology is the area where the research and knowledge that has develop the world of education and media today is used to problem solve for instructional settings. Its basically using what we know about learning, the brain, the available resources, and the methods of instruction to create a logical way to meet instructional needs. Instructional methods instructional media, and performance technologies are used when designing instruction and meeting learners' needs.
- 2. Instructional Technology Instructional Technology can take many forms, but follows similar processes of design: ADDIE - Using the Systems Design model to find needs in an educational or workplace setting and meet the objectives by following the analyze, design, develope, implement, and evaluate processes. Networking -T o help increase productivity and collaboration networking technology has been implemented in a number of settings, meeting communication needs. E-learning - Using the internet to provide educational opportunities for distance learners. Using educational methods and media to present information and teach skills and concepts.
- 3. Instructional Methods Instructional methods are the ways that instructors are going to deliver the lesson or objectives. There are a variety of methods available. As E-learning instructors face-to-face lecture is not always an option; we must be creative. It is important to remember how people learn best and create opportunities for learners to obtain the needed information.
- 4. Instructional Methods Some common methods used in E-learning environments are: Independent study - Students read from text, complete online activities, and complete assessments that are given feedback from an instructor. Jigsaw - A group of learners divide concepts to collect information and become experts on their assignment. They later communicate their findings to the group and collect their group members findings. This could be accomplished on a discussion board, via e-mail, wiki, or live chat room. Project based -Student(s) complete a task by learning concepts and them applying them to create a final product which must be presented and shared with instructor or group. Reflection and evaluation is encouraged by creator(s) and audience.
- 5. I nstructional Media Instruction Media is what many people think of when they hear the word technology today. Media includes computers, chat rooms, the world wide web, wikis, Accelerated Reader, Reader Rabbit Software, touch screen monitors, calculators, Smart boards, etc. I like to think of these as the tools of instructional technology. It is possible for an Instructional Technologist to design instruction using appropriate instructional methods, but choosing not to use an electronic media and choose a book or newspaper instead. It is the goal of many Instruction Technologist to prepare students for 21st Century skills and learning so therefore many do attempt to use electronic media such as online newspapers and E-books. instructional media, instructional methods, instructional technology and performance technology
- 6. Instructional Media Common media used in E-Learning: Printed Text -Yes, books. Where we can not be with our students to ensure that they are receiving the correct information necessary to complete assignments and learn concepts, we can provide them with the text necessary to find such information. Threading Discussion Boards -In a secure location, this is a wonderful way to still encourage collaboration and discussion among peers in a virtual environment. Students can communicate and track conversations over an extended period of time. Virtual Reality - In programs such as Second Life students can create avatars and interact with instructors and students just as they would in a traditional classroom setting. This is appropriate only if students can meet at a specific time and have the computer capabilities to hold such transfer of information.
- 7. Performance Technology Performance technology tools is an example of Instructional Media. These are programs that help students approach instructional goals by repeating skills in an organized way. Many of these tools help monitor progress and adapt to the learner's needs.
- 8. Performance Technology Interactive Learning Modules - Presentations that quiz and and check for understanding, provides feedback and gives re-mediation when necessary. This could be done through an interactive power point or video. Simulators - This technology is especially useful when teaching courses that require specific skills not just content knowledge. Virtual environments present students with task and show immediate outcomes to their input. This may be created to look like a game or be carried out in a live virtual environment like Second Life. My Writing Web -Software program designed to present students with writing prompts. Electronically grades for content and lexille levels. Provides students with feedback on conventional errors or focus problems. Improves writing ability.