Asynchronous learning refers to an instructor's facilitation of material by providing materials, lessons, and learning activities which may be assessed by students freely and submitted within a specified time-frame. Examples include email, online discussion forums, blogs, texting, and social media platforms.
Synchronous learning refers to instruction that occurs when teachers and students are online and interacting in real-time. Examples include skype/facetime, virtual classrooms, instant messaging, and video conferencing.
In my current classroom setup, asynchronous learning occurs. I communicate to students, parents, and colleagues via email. The county also uses email to relay announcements to teachers at all the district schools. I also am a big fan of online discussion forums, and have used those before with my students. In my personal life, I have found that I'm able to skype with family across the country as well as instant messaging. I participated in virtual classrooms in college for teachers to have review sessions or for real-time presentations (live). I can see advantages for each of these learning methods.
1.2.1 Describe Roles and Functions in Online Learning Environments Quest
The two systems introduced include a Student Information System (SIS) and a Learning Management System (LMS). The SIS was described as packaged or custom software applications that manage student information records, grades, and possibly payments. The LMS was described as a software system or application that manage an organization and the delivery of digital learning materials.As I think back to my experiences with online education, the Learning Management System was process for which my courses were communicated. For example, I paid tuition dues and fees thru the university and then used the online platform Georgia On My Line for coursework; the 2 entities were separate.
Within the LMS, there are administrators for both technology and instruction, content developers, teachers, and students all involved in the process. Administrators take care of behind-the-scenes troubles with log-ins, upgrades, and other management issues. They also deal with instructional tools, course schedules, assignments, grading, and reporting of data. Content developers assist course instructors with the tools and resources needed to allow the course to run smoothly. Some platforms might not use content developers but rather buy from notable content writers instead. During my online courses, I had the most interaction with the course teacher/instructor. That individual facilitated discussions, sent out weekly reminders, provided feedback, controlled grading, and answered any emails relating to the course. My advanced degrees in Curriculum & Instruction would allow me to work as a content developer, but my goal is to be a course instructor for many years to come.
1.3.1 Discussing the LMS and CMS Quest
As technology has become more advanced, so have the learning platforms that are available for educational use. The Learning Management System (LMS) and Course Management System (CMS) have become more integrated as developers are finding ways to meet the needs of users by combining the platforms.
Course management systems serve as a component of learning management systems. The articles pointed out that LMS's are more robust in nature and are seen as a more dynamic structure compared to CMS's. The CMS is seen as more of a file repository and does not have the capability of scaling into a LMS. LMS's can start as a CMS and adapt into a larger overarching learning strategy.
An organization would need to consider some long-term goals when deciding if a CMS or LMS is the better educational platform route. As more users become involved and interaction/feedback become desired, the move to the LMS should be used. LMS's have the ability to take on growth and increased learning needs.
2.1.1 Delivery Methods and the Synchronous Vendor Market Quest
The need to have synchronous learning experiences for students is paramount as virtual learning becomes more popular and desired by many. People might wonder how virtual learning differs from face-to-face classrooms, and it is still possible to have lectures, host help sessions, and other modes where there is instantaneous feedback. One of the biggest obstacles that I noticed when researching the different platforms was the associated costs, and many didn't include pricing but required me to call a representative and talk numbers. Some tools that would aid the virtual classroom include a space for students to make presentations, video sharing, instant messaging, polling, and discussion boards. I have had experience with several platforms and would be interested in the preferred platform that Georgia Virtual uses.
The tools I was most interested included Adobe Connect, Cisco WebEx, Blackboard Collaborate, and Google Hangouts. I compared Google Hangouts to GoToMeeting...the latter received higher ratings but the costs associated with it caused me to look elsewhere. I like that the platforms have FREE trials associated and the ability to connect via mobile device. For my online teaching courses through Georgia On My Line, teachers had access to Blackboard Collabroate and that was the platform for which we did our presentations and teaching. In terms of ease and costs, I have found interest with the Google tool because of the many available resources. The ability to share with all students in a class, chat feature, hangouts for video messaging, and more, this is the most feasible platform for me at this point. If Google did not meet my needs, then I would go with Cisco WebEx next, as their monthly rates are more reasonable as well as providing necessary technical support.
For my recorded session, I chose to use Google Hangouts. Upon getting logged in Gmail and accessing the hangouts area, I then had to install a PlugIn to allow the Google application to become available. The system ran a check on the program and tested out the sounds along with the camera. From there, I was ready to get started. For someone who understands the process of downloading packages and what might need to be installed, it was fairly easy. I did not have any problems during the process, and learned some new things about the resources/tools that Google provides.
The recording allowed me to start with a video call, phone call, or instant message/chat. The phone call feature would most likely not be used except maybe office hours. The video call allowed me to invite people based on email addresses or stored contacts and then my webcam turned on. I was allow to record and instant message in the side bar at the same time. The instant messaging/chat feature is great for direct feedback and I use often when on Google docs. Although I did not use for this recording, I also record my lectures in class via QuickTime Player; it allows me to record my voice only as well as a screen recording with audio included. Many students from the past have commented that they would watch my podcasts if absent from school or go back and review them before a test. There are a lot of modes out there for teachers, and it is important to find one that you are comfortable with and meets the intended needs.
2.1.3 Commercial versus Open Virtual Classrooms Quest
Commercial software refers to products offered to schools for a set cost; open source software relates to materials that are free and available to users. The concept of free and easy access is quite appealing. The first example that came to mind about commercial software is when teachers attend conferences. I presented at the National Financial Literacy Conference for Economic Education last year and there were sponsors and vendors for teachers to talk with. Several of the vendors had pre-packaged software and curriculum; they were willing to let me look thru or even us a demo copy but then the prices jumped when looking into ordering class sets.
I feel that a commercial product creates a basic foundation. If a teacher feels that they need more resources and ideas beyond the commercial product, then that is when the open source software would be useful. The biggest con against commercial software are the associated costs. My school district has also found that when they order pre-packaged resources, they might like some but not the entire package. They are working on strategies now to select specific materials to pay for and not have to buy the entire bundle. When thinking about the open source concept, the possibilities could be endless and it might see overwhelming to someone who does not know exactly what to look for. Either way, the common theme is that educators and instructional leaders need to think about their short and long-term goals, and do the resources/tool help accomplish the goals effectively.
2.1.4 Lecture Capture Quest
Lecture capture has truly added a technological component to my current classroom and provides an alternative option for students who are absent from school. I refer to lecture capturing as podcasting or screen recording. The program that I use the most for my recordings is called QuickTime Player, and it comes installed on my MacBook Air.
There is a need for lecture capturing methods in both the virtual classroom and face-to-face environments. Podcasts serve as an extension of content or lessons for students who need remediation or extended support. In my own classroom, I have kept podcasts posted for the entire semester to allow students the ability to view them in the current unit or to review at the end of the semester. Podcasts are also compatible with other devices, which gives students access via their cell phones, ipads, tablets, or home computers. Our school district also has a program called hospital-homebound for students who have medical complications and do not attend school for periods of time; the use of podcasting allows for students to access daily lectures just as if they were sitting in the classroom.
With lecture capturing/podcasting growing in popularity, we can expect to see some changes in teaching methods and modes of delivery. The biggest benefactor will be the student--podcasts address both auditory and visual learning styles. Students can also take part in the creation of podcasts, as they can develop skills like researching, writing, effective speaking, vocabulary acquisition, and time management. Students can share little projects with their own peers and take pride and ownership in their own learning. Many students and teachers have the programs already installed on their computers to take part in lecture capturing...now we have to encourage people to explore the endless possibilities for learning and the classroom (virtual and face-to-face).
Some great resources included below:
17 Screencasting Tools for Virtual Learning
Podcasting for Dummies
Uses of Podcasting in Education
Other Podcasting Resources and Tools
3.1.1 LMS Tool Categories Quest
In order to be a successful learning platform, ease of navigation is essential. Virtual learning can be overwhelming to someone initially, but being able to explore and important information will help lessen the fear of online education. As I compose this post about categories, I can't help but think of the organization and structure of the Georgia On My Line platform. The dashboard have an easy to follow layout and a sidebar panel included folders for each unit/week. I have to attribute my Type A personality and need for organization to how I structure my current classroom and hopes for my virtual classrooms in the future.
Tools: blogs, journals, glossary, email
Course Administration: course home, widgets
Teacher Information: class list, calendar, bulletin board, office hours, instructor contact information
Course Content: curriculum, pdf's, podcasts, study guides, notes, syllabus
Communication: email, instant messaging, discussion boards
Course Assessments: tests, quizzes, rubrics, dropbox
Grades/Gradebook: grades
Reporting: class data
Learning Object Repository: learning objectives
ePortfolio: documentation of class evidence
From the teachers perspective, the tools, information, content, communication, and gradebook are extremely important features. The tools and content tabs would provide students with necessary information to be successful in the course. The use of a course blog could also provide another way for the teacher to give weekly updates. Information tab has pertinent info for students, including the calendar of due dates, methods for communicating with the instructor, and office hours. The gradebook feature is a way for teacher to provide feedback to students on their performance. The use of comments for grades would allow the teacher to give specific feedback to each students based on the situation.
From the students perspective, the course content, information, communication, and assessments would be important to locate. Course content will contain all necessary curriculum. Information would provide students with a weekly/daily calendar of work expectations as well as ways to contact the instructor. Communication tools are also important for discussion posts and also collaboration with class peers. The assessments should be user-friendly and easy to locate to alleviate any stresses that might occur with testing online. Based on the nature of the course, the ePortfolio could be a way in which students demonstrate mastery of the learning objectives.
The most important thing to remember about virtual learning platforms is easy navigation/organized structure.
3.1.2 Creation and Investigation into Courses Quest
The LMS that I chose to work with was Course Sites by Blackboard. Using the resources provided, they downloaded in the form of a zip file. I was not as familiar with all the files included and so it took some time to sort through and decide what I wanted to use and where I wanted to use it. Once I registered for the teacher trial and got logged in, I was able to setup my course platform as a module. This format would be my preferred platform setting because I could organize materials by units or modules. The creation of a page was challenging because I was not familiar with the content and had to navigate my own way through Blackboard. I do like what Blackboard has to offer and feel that the process would be a lot easier with my own content and materials. I have bookmarked Blackboard as a resource to use in the future.
3.1.3 Tools within the LMS Quest
The tools that serve the LMS are extremely important to both participants and facilitators in virtual learning environments. Communication is vital to all parties being successful throughout the duration of the course. While tools can vary across different systems, there are many common functions that a reputable program must contain.
Communication
*Email: One of the most important communication tools and almost everyone has access to a personal email account or one through the learning platform. They can be sent from participant to facilitator or can even be used for peer-to-peer communication.
*Notification System & Alerts: Participants may be able to sign up for alerts or notifications (via email of text message). Alerts or notifications might be sent when there is activity on an assignment, reply to a discussion thread, upcoming due date or assignment, or class message from the instructor.
*Discussions: A common tool with online courses. Teachers might post a discussion thread and class members are responsible for creating a response and replying to peers. Teachers can use the discussion board to monitor student activity and learning, and address questions, concerns, or give additional insight.
*Instant Messaging: Real-time/live feedback that can be built into a platform or use an outside resource. Options include AOL Instant Messenger, Yahoo Instant Messenger, Facebook chat, Google talk, or GroupMe.
*Blogs: Blogs allow for a more complete written composition, invoking critical-thinking and reflection. Teachers might create a blog to document the progress of the semester or students might be responsible for keeping and updating a blog.
*Calendar: Communication regarding upcoming assignments, activities, and due date are done through a calendar. Course members can usually sync the course externally to their phone calendars so they receive notifications and alerts as if they were logged in.
*Social Media: Networking beyond the LMS has become a growing trend, and even after the completion of a course. Platforms include Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
Assessment
*Dropbox: Dropbox is a spot where participants can upload documents and presentations for the course facilitator to review and grade.
*Discussions: As a tool for communication, discussion boards can also be used for assessments. Sometimes they are informal, other times they can have set requirements. In previous courses, some discussions have been based on participating with peers following teacher-posted threads. Other courses have required each individual to post (minimum 500 words with citations) and then other students would have to respond to a certain number of original posts. These would be graded on thought, detail, and evidence.
*Quizzing/Testing: Can be setup as open-ended and/or multiple choice questioning. Answer keys are pre-loaded and automatic grading can be instantaneous feedback or done at the conclusion of a testing window.
*Gradebook/User Progress: The gradebook shows the learner's progress throughout the course and allows facilitators to provide extra feedback. Students can also view remaining grades and check user statistics.
All of the tools listed above are extremely important for both communication and assessment. When trying to pick a tool that might not be as useful, I would vote for social media or the use of blogs. Both could be covered by sending out course announcements but each serve as an alternative medium for keeping the participants and facilitator connected.
3.1.4 LMS Reporting Quest
Assessment feedback provides critical information to both the student and teacher. Just like in face-to-face classrooms, the role of analytics and data collection paint a clear picture. Gathering student data can redirect instruction or provide for reteaching and remediation. Universities and districts look at data to determine the effectiveness of a course as well.
Perspective is key when understanding who is interested in reporting data. Students use assessment data to determine how successful the course is going. Facilitators look at data to determine the progress levels of their students. Program facilitators can look at courses across the board and compare their effectiveness but also evaluate areas of weakness and suggestions for improvement.
Grade reporting is the quickest, live feedback that students receive and make inferences on how well they are doing in a course. I also think teachers benefit from accessing data relating to the number of times a student logs in, attempts at a quiz, and if content pages were open/downloaded.For the students, course level and program level reporting do not carry as much weight in their minds. Teachers benefit the most from student and teacher level reporting. That data can provide valuable insight and shape instructional decisions for the future.
3.2.1 Tools for Deciding on an LMS Quest
The decision-makers have a tough task when deciding on the appropriate LMS platform. Some important steps to keep in mind when selecting a platform include:
1. Needs analysis
2. Requirements gathering process
3. Vendor information
4. Request information
5. Request for proposal
6. Schedule demonstrations
7. Choose vendor
Commercial LMS vendors include Blackboard Learn (AngelLearning, WebCt, Vista, Prometheus), Desire2Learn, and Person Learning Studio. Open Source LMS vendors include Moodle, Sakai, and Canvas. So how would stakeholders know which platform was best or the right fit? There are many factors and variables to keep in mind. After studying the visuals and reading about various platforms, I would recommend Blackboard as the best commercial LMS and Moodle as the top Open Source LMS. I still am open and interested in researching these further. I am just thankful that I don't have to make a big decision like choosing a LMS platform at this point.
Web-based tools for educational purposes and online educational resources are the hottest educational trend topics right now. What does education look like in the next 5-10 years? I firmly believe that virtual education is on the cusp of being a commonality. More and more universities will be offering online degrees; this movement will allow more people to work while obtaining a degree. In high schools, students are opting to take courses online or in the summer to complete their requirements early or make room in their schedules for electives they hope turn into career paths. Based on the image below, as online education becomes more prevalent, so will the dependence on web-based tools and online educational resources.
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