Subject: [IFETS-DISCUSSION:986] -
From: Nichol, Cameron B (nichol.cameron.b@edumail.vic.gov.au)
Date: Mon 29 Jan 2001 - 01:50:15 MET
From: "Nichol, Cameron B" <nichol.cameron.b@edumail.vic.gov.au> Subject: [IFETS-DISCUSSION:986] - Date: Mon, 29 Jan 2001 13:50:15 +1300
Greetings All,
In Victoria (Australia) we are actively fostering the development of online
learning (content and skills) in the Vocational Education and Training sector
via an online content development fund. In terms on developing good content the
importance of experienced Instructional Designers in the central role cannot be
over-emphasised. This is a specialised skill and unfortunately being a damned
good classroom teacher or academic of high standing does not really equip you
with the range of skills required.
Many good classroom teachers with excellent face to face skill seem to be
seduced into developing "web sites" rather than learning environments.
Here are some questions I find useful to help teachers orientate their thinking:
- How do you keep your class on track?
- How do you handle your class when a valuable question that is off the specific
current topic is asked?
- How you handle situations when a valuable side track discussion arises?
- What do you do to keep the student involved eg "ok, give me 5 reasons why this
might occur", "has anybody seem a different way to do this?", "that reminds me
of joke.."
- What homework do you give out?
- Now how are you going to do that online?
The weakest coureware I have seen is usually the result of teams led by content
experts (online text books) or graphics/multi-media designers (lots to look at
but little engagement). Each role is important but someone has to in the middle
who understands how to make the online environment work (and when it doesn't).
Some (hard learnt) additional pearls of wisdom for future online learning
innovators:
- In terms of explaining the relative virtues of online learning, refer to
flexible learning and learning strategies that increase options. If possible
try to avoid referring to online learning.
- Get in first with the limitations on online learning ("there are a lot things
you can't do on a computer.."), then introduce the relative advantages of your
strategy eg hybrid classroom/online courses.
- Develop a good working knowledge of the existing organisational and political
culture. Align the "product" with the organisational goals (or biases).
- Take a long term view. Consider from the outset what level of compromise is
acceptable.
- People want to see examples.
- 2 pages of pictures and arrows is worth more than a 10 page description (and
if done well will take you longer to do).
- The best project in the world is useless if your boss "doesn't get it". Have
an implementation / marketing plan for senior management.
- Be prepared to take advantage of "lucky breaks" ("the harder I work the
luckier I get")
- It's not the end of the world when your boss says "no, I don't like it".
onward and upward
regards,
Cameron Nichol
Project Manager - Online Content
Learning Technologies Branch
Office of Post Compulsory Education Training and Employment (PETE)
Phone: 03 9637 3732
Fax: 03 9637 3160
Email: nichol.cameron.b@edumail.vic.gov.au
http://www.otfe.vic.gov.au/learningtechnologies/index.htm
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