First Contact: Using Technology to Prepare Students for Class

Simmons, Greg         (828) 262-6991

Instructional Technology Consultant

Instructional Computing Services

Appalachian State University

First co-presenter:	Church, Jeff
Organization:	Appalachian State University

Abstract (up to 200 words):
A challenge facing teachers in the 21st century is finding effective ways to move the first point of contact with a given concept out of the normal lecture/class time. Technology allows us to create online activities to both prepare students for upcoming material, and also provide prompt feedback to the students as to their understanding of the topic to be covered. Our presentation will discuss how we as educators can use existing online course tools in a more pedagogically effective way. Threaded discussion, content pages, and online quizzing are nothing new...but utilizing these tools to create an empowering learning environment is a challenge many course designers have yet to conquer. Using actual online WebCT courses as examples, we will demonstrate suggested practices for attaining this elusive goal. The presentation will emphasize sound pedagogical practice, as well as the associated online tools for achieving it. Specifically, we will discuss the strategic use of self-tests, threaded discussion, and structuring online content in such a way as to allow students to maximize their preparation before attending class.

Session type:
Short presentation (20 minutes)

Time slots:
C6 - Fr 1:00 - 1:45

Room:
Victoria C

Last Modified September 9, 2003
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