Internet-Based Multimedia Resources for Online Learning

For this assignment I chose the following two sites.  There is a wealth of information on the internet and educators have to make sure that it aligns with their instructional goals.  In addition to what a learner has to master with the Universities online site educators also have outside expectations of their students and must keep in mind that exploring a school’s site can be the first time that an online student has engaged in an online program therefore lots of direction and student monitoring could possibly be needed. By involving cyberstudents in activities that utilize games and simulations, real-life skills can be enhanced and learning can be made fun (Conrad and Donaldson, 2011, p. 101).

Google Docs http://docs.google.com

Google Docs is a Web-based word processing, presentation and spreadsheet program offered by Google.  This software is similar to the Walden online website and most online educational websites in that students can connect from any device that is internet accessible.  With this technology adult learners are able to collaborate on group projects at the same time by tracking and updating data, take quizzes, check grades and form discussions all on line.  I selected this technology because it’s free it does not require the need to sign up for any license.  I would use this technology to specifically allow multiple students to work outside of the classroom in groups several would be able to collaborate on one document as a group assignment then present as a group in addition I would build on conversations via discussion board and/or blog. 

 

Reading Companion http://www.readingcompanion.org/ReadingCompanion/testimonials.jsp

This speech recognition technology assists with teaching students to read.  A reading monitor reads information to the student and then the student is afforded the opportunity to read the information back.  If the student is successful he/she receives positive feedback if not the user is able to try again.  As the students reading skills improve the monitor reads less and the student reads more on their own.  I selected this technology because ELL students need lots of practice hearing accurately spoken words and being given the opportunity to practice for accuracy and understanding on their own.  I would use this program in the classroom during instruction so that the students could revisit the material in class and at home.  I would also set up online tutorials for the student to utilize at home over the weekends and breaks.

 

 

Conrad, R.M. and Donaldson, J.A. (2011). Engaging the Online Learner: Activities and Resources for 

Creative Instruction. San Francisco, CA. Jossey-Bass.