Week.

7 Application

Rita Fowler

Facilitate communication through technology: In formulating a best practice guide for

the trainer to follow, when converting to a distance learning format, to include ideas and tips

that could assist in facilitating communication and learning among students, in a blended

course environment could be enhance by using media. This is one way to enhance

communication from an original face to face course to a distance learning format. Whatever

media are selected to facilitate instructor-student and student-student interaction, should be

recognized that these forms of mediated discussion should not completely replace the face

to face element of a course (Simonson, p.150. 2009). For instance, in a video-conferencing

structure, communication is mediated through a technical media application, which remains

mediated communication and cannot replace an actual discussion or an actual argument. A

face to face PowerPoint Presentation could enhance the learning experience.

Furthermore, what takes place in a discussion via technology could only be

transmitted in part, electronically, whereas it could be taken back to the classroom for

further analysis and used in discussion with a flowchart. The advantages of a blended

format could be applied here. That is, when in a face to face format, communication is

actually in discussion and/or argument. This could allow or induce reflection upon what has

been learned online or in face to face formats. For instance, what aspects of his original

training program could be enhanced in the distance learning format? Face to face

interaction by using an electronic whiteboard and meeting in small groups in the presence

of an instructor would enhance the distance learning format by adding two additional

technology, such as video-conference, chat, problem based questions, and in threaded

online discussion format (computer-mediated communication) (CMC) (Simonson, 2009

p.81). Interaction could now be synchronous or asynchronous. And, the network could

distribute course materials to students around the world.

Effective use of a variety of media to facilitate communication could be structured to

discuss in the face to face learning environment for instruction and learning. There are two

key elements called the NSU/ITDE model - Best of Both Worlds. And, they could be used

for online communication in Distance Education. A point for him to remember is that

technologies are not critical elements in shaping students’ satisfaction. It is satisfaction that

is determined by the attention students receive and through the system meeting their

needs. And, that no one approach to course design is ideal (Simonson, p. 150). However, if

his course is a small enrollment, a good plan would be to use the author-editor approach,

which would make economic sense. If the course has a large enrollment, the team-

approach is more effective but expensive.

What are some of the pre-planning strategies the trainer needs to consider before

converting his program? The trainer needs to consider by assessing his institutional

resources the following questions: What is he already working with, what kind of hardware

and operating system is his institution supported, what kind of network are already set up,

and what kind of computer support does the institution provide, as well as accessibility for

the disabled. Gaining consensus from all key players is essential for a smooth transition into

a blended/hybrid environment (Simonson, 2009).

How would his role as trainer change in a distance learning environment. His role

would change based on the four components that define distance education. His role in

distance learning equals to the intellectual separation of teacher and student in location and

time. He will not be able to rely on any gestures, facial expressions, or be able to act upon

with while instructing. His role will change as a face to face teacher to a facilitator that is
essential to the learning environment of his students. That is, to guide in discussions,

support, and motivate along the way. He would have to use more technology to facilitate

his objectives and goals. He will have to create a learning environment that all students to

follow without any face to face interaction.

What steps should the trainer take to encourage the trainees to communicate online?

Computer conferencing increases the potential for interaction and collaborative work among the

students. Posting questions to engage the students into interaction by using the discussion board

helps online communication (Simonson, 2009 p.39). The ARS (audience response system) converts

standard PowerPoint presentation into an interactive learning system that engages students in

active participation, and it allows instructors to display questions, surveys, opinion polls, and

games. Group or study activities really could enhance communication between students. Student

introduction is good, because it allows students to get to know each other and to feel more

comfortable in an online environment. Asking for lots of feedback through questions or to give

their insights or opinions to questions, or in story telling activities should create communication.
 Reference

Schlosser, C.A., & Burmeister, Marsha. (n.d.). Best of both worlds. Unpublished
manuscript, The Nova Southeastern Universtiy, Bloomington, IN. Retrieved from
http://www.schoolofed.nova.edu/itde/pdf/article.pdf

Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2009). Teaching and learning at a distance:
Foundations of distance education (4th ed.) Boston, MA: Pearson.