The other small point I wish to make is for tutors reading the blog who may be new to most of the technology mentioned. Don't feel daunted by the variety of all the different possibilities. Finding out more IT possibilities can be a fascinating challenge for some people and overwhelming for others. As a non IT person (just a bit of work processing) I have grappled with the docucam, camera and projector to show and take photos and demonstrate techniques and show pictures and textiles with the docucam. No doubt, from time to time I will add to these skills, but this is plenty for enhancing learning in an ad ed course. My experience is to become relaxed and confident with a few technologies. Developing my textiles and ceramic skills will always be my priority. This may be verging on saying what I want to do rather that what has actually happened - as I have spent a lot of time getting to this point of confidence with 'the kit'.
By definition, what we don't know is a mystery and this can generate both curiosity, anxiety and fear. For example I havn't taken a simple video yet with the camera (probably because I am not comfortable with this medium) and as I havn't done it, it seems daunting. The fact that it is easy is not something I have discovered yet! I think reading the blog could sound rather daunting. Keep it simple to start with - until your curiosity gets the better of you. Maybe an evening to help tutors (new to it all) to select one technology that could be 'their cup of tea' would be one idea to explore. Each tutor could have a 'one to one' session with another tutor who can use that piece of equipment with confidence. Then they could maybe keep in e-mail contact until confidence is gained.
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2 comments:
Both these recent postings are very useful Sara, providing much food for thought. There's a lot to share and discuss at the meeting on 28th July. Thanks.
Sara, I think one of my main discoveries along this e-learning path has been that not every piece of kit is for everyone and every situation. There will always be those favourite pieces of equipment that we feel confident using, which enhance our teaching and make the learning process more effective for our students as a result. On the other hand, there will be bits we leave in the box - either because they are too complex (or too heavy!) and simply get in the way of our work. Each of us will put different items into each category, depending on what we are teaching and the situation we work in.
I think my main priority is to make sure that none of this kit stays in a box because it's too precious to use. That's what it's there for!
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