Posted 7:23 PM by George Siemens
Simple Starts with Technology
Integrating technology and curriculum does not need to be an overwhelming, daunting task. Integration happens at the user level (i.e. instructor/student), so it is important that the process reflects the needs of these users. The real challenge is to allow teachers to remain teachers...not convert them to second-rate technologists - which seems to be the current trend in many elearning implementations. What is needed for this to happen? Concepts like low threshold applications ("Don't raise unrealistic expectations, don't add to the hype; LOWER THE THRESHOLDS!") can help instructors move into technology use efficiently. With that in mind, here is a simple list of ideas that I consider to be simple starts with technology:

• Discussion board - using a program like Quick Topic
  
• Discussion forum - using a service like Topica or Yahoo! Groups
  
• Instant messaging as a discussion forum - ICQ
  
• Collaborative tools and spaces - using Community Zero or Groove
  
• Blogs - using Blogger or movabletype
  
• Incorporate simple web/news searches using Google
  
• Add media/interactivity using PalTalk
  

This is a short list of simple (generally only a few minutes to set up - exception: movabletype) tools that can be used to enhance learning - in a face-to-face class or distance learning. An expensive learning management system (LMS) is not needed. Small starting points that succeed are better than large projects that overwhelm learners and instructors.

Instructors and administrators need to let go of the desire to control and dominate the learning cycle (as evidenced by LMS being viewed as being the backbone of elearning). Learning is simply a communication process with an intended outcome/goal. Software tools can facilitate this process...and it need not be a complex start.

Posted 8:02 AM by George Siemens
Random thoughts: I was in a planning meeting this week...focused on creating recommendations for the technology/learning integration at Red River College. The committee basically reviewed and updated an existing technology plan. Very interesting to see how things have changed in only a few years. The original document was heavily centered on creating capacity for technology adoption...and on making technology available to faculty/college staff. The revisions suggested focused more on the use of technology...content management, knowledge management, development model, instructor support, etc.

In a span of several years, the focus shifted from technology availability to application of technology...from making resources available to early adopters to making resources available for majority users...next: student focus? simplification of technology? learning focus?

Posted 7:35 AM by George Siemens
How to make e-learning interesting
Quote: "E-learning courseware and interface design is still in its infancy, struggling with static Web-based technologies not designed for the purpose. Now companies are also facing legal obligations to provide access for the sight, hearing and dexterity-impaired, too. Are your content development and programming tools up to the task?"
Comment: Good suggestions: invent exercises to present information, structure in layered fashion - rather than linear (allows for greater exploration)...but that's it. After that it turns into an advertisement for Macromedia.