Helping (convince) Students to Use Technology

It’s a common question: “How do I teach my students to use a technology that I don’t fully understand myself?” Or, more common still: “I use that technology all the time, but I just don’t feel comfortable teaching it.”  So here are some of the issues that arise with teaching technology, and some tips for addressing them.

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Group Projects: Online Collaboration Keeps Students Working

Online technologies allow for asynchronous, delocalized collaboration. This not only means your students can avoid those awkward group meetings where one person never shows up, but it also means that you can have direct evidence of which students are contributing the group’s efforts.

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In-Class Activities: STV 250 and Extending the Discussion

Sometimes, it’s good to be able to refer back on a previous discussion – this can not only help your students better reflect on what they’ve learned, but it can also help you use specific examples as you write teaching statements for future employment.

The technology in the STV 250 classroom offers unique opportunities for students to write records of their discussions. Plus, when discussions are shared online, students can continue the discussion beyond the classroom.  Here are some techniques and technologies I use to engage my students during class time.

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E-mail Communications: Pointers for a Better Life

Writing is about communication. Regardless of technology – whether you’re speaking to the group or sending out an e-mail – you need to set an example for your students. E-mails, in particular, offer a good example of how to start.

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