While I teach face to face, I definitely incorporate technology into my classes, in various ways. I use Blackboard to post all assignments, the syllabus, outside readings or videos, lecture notes (PPT) for each class, office hours, and grades. After this class, I will utilize even more. What I don’t use enough of is group work/collaborative learning. I do have these activities, but I am leaning towards adding even more. Reflecting upon those activities, they are class periods that I enjoy and I can see the students become more lively. In George Siemens post on theory and MOOCs, he discussed the term “resonance.” This made a lot of sense for me and I can see this when my students are given collaborative activities. It is hard to gauge whether students are really taking in the content during lectures. Yes, there are always those students who actively participate, but I am always wondering about my more quiet students. This is why it is so beneficial to do collaborative work where students are applying and demonstrating their understanding of the content. It encourages students to come to class with homework/readings done, so they are ready to work. This fosters “autonomous and self-regulated learning.”
Two ideas that were discussed in ch 13 are ones that I will likely incorporate into my classes. I think that students would benefit from using the web for student presentations (PPT, videos, etc). I also love the concept of having students take turns facilitating discussion groups. I wonder if I could make that successful in my f2f classes? When I teach online, that will definitely be a great teaching tool.
I am leaning towards creating 4-5 minute intro video on the week 8 topic of creating class elements. I can say that utilizing different elements in class has really added to the dynamic nature of my classes. When I tie pedagogy in with technology and creativity, good things happen in class.