Engaging Learners with New Strategies and Tools






New and emerging technologies have seemingly altered the way in whch we communicate, collaborate, and share information with others. The technological tools that are listed above in the graphic organizer are only a few Web 2.0 tools that are available today.

 

 

Integrating tools such as blogs, wikis, blackboard, or skype into online education is equivalent to the traditional classroom instruction. In order for communication and collaboration to take place the learning environment must be one that is supportive, open, and respectful. This can only be accomplished if instructors build a community in which trust has been established amonger learners, timelines followed, communication occurs in a timely manner, clear and concise rubrics are provided.

 

 

The three main categories I have identified above includes collaboration, communication, and content. Communication tools are generally synchronous, they occur at the same time. The communication tools that I identified in my graphic organizer such as facebook, twitter, email, and skype provide a way for learners to communication. The collaboation tools that I identified such as wikis and blogs provide learners a central location to share their ideas and resources and to work collaboratively with one another. The tools used for collaboration are asynchronous and they allow learners to gain a deeper understanding; they are afforded the opportunity to think and research before responding.

 

 

The tools identified have the potential to bring a new meaning to learning and teaching as well.