If I were going to deliver a class via Elluminate I would want to consider how boring it is and I would try to think of ways to infuse it with life and excitement. Unfortunately I can't really think of any of those, so I probably just wouldn't use it. I feel that if people wanted to be at a certain place at a certain time, then they would probably rather just attend the class in person. Being stuck in front of a computer and having to hope that you'll be able to hit the "talk" button before someone else does, seems like more of a waste of time than anything. I would rather use uLearn, or WebCT, full time that have to schedule around a 2 hour window on Monday night.
As far as different activities, I would try to have a scavenger hunt type game where students would be allowed (and encouraged) to search for information on the Internet. I mean, if we all have a computer in front of us, let's use it to the fullest. Finding images that convey a certain feeling, or a link to page that has useful information on assessments, and then pasting them onto the whiteboard, would be a valuable and more entertaining way to utilize the software.
That's just my opinion.
Some might like to actually attend a class every Monday night, but for me 3 1/2 hours of driving every week would be a killer! I can handle Elluminate for 2 hours with a smile on my face and supper in the oven.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Teresa. I was sick this week and would not have been able to attend class. It is nice when the class is over that I don't have to drive from Atlanta.
ReplyDeleteHi Josh,
ReplyDeleteThank you for the very frank feedback. I admire you for being truthful. I have been struggling with Elluminate since this is new to me and you have inspired me to do better. I am actually going to change how we do the section on cognitive evaluation based on your feedback. I think it's like all of us when we are new at something - we are afraid to give up control to the class. You all are going to get a lot more opportunities after this next class to use the technology. By the way, do you have to be so blunt? There are more positive ways of getting the point across. thank, Dr. J