I think that communication can be difficult in general. Whether you are dealing with communicating with others professionally or personally, the reality is, some people communicate well and some people don't. In my job, I am communicating constantly with people. So some days I may exchange 25 emails with one person or I might skype back and forth 50 different times. And then sometimes you have those people who just pick up the phone because it is just easier to keep things straight. Therefore, I really appreciate this chapter on supporting communication with technology! I think in all of my daily projects, we are trying to find out ways to encourage and help our students communicate effectively. One thing we are adding to our modules this year is collaborative projects, thus, communication will be even more important.
I loved the guidelines for designing technology-supported communication. To look at the following four guidelines:
1. Consider the context: what is the most efficient tool for communication
2. Safety first: teach students how to communicate appropriately
3. Teach group dynamics and team building skills: state views clearly, define roles, use appropriate levels of language, etc.
4. Provide students with a reason to listen.
I think that as I approach my projects this year and as I am working with my SMEs, I am going to keep these guidelines at the front of our thoughts. What tool is going to help our students communicate most effectively and appropriately in order to achieve a mastery of the required standards. Again, while I think communication is difficult...we all can learn to express our ideas clearly and with appropriate tone in order for all parties to benefit. I guess we will see how this goes...I'm challenged and excited by this task of effective, technology supported communication.
You're so right, Twila. Some people communicate really well, but others do not. Effective communication is so critical to everything we do...school, work, relationships, etc. that it's an important skill to have. I think it's great that GAVS uses a lot of different technologies to support student communication. It's really teaching students multiple formats for expressing themselves and what they've learned. Like learning styles, there isn't one best way to communicate. We and our students have to adapt to meet the needs of people we're communicating with.
ReplyDeleteIt's funny that you mention email, Skype, and how some people prefer to talk on the phone. I've gotten lazy with my friends and we often just text, but sometimes we misinterpret each others messages. My husband mentioned the other day that our daughter would grow up thinking communication via Skype/Facetime is normal, but really it's just an emerging technology that gives us another avenue for communicating. I don't think there's any substitute for face to face communication.
When I read this chapter I was really struck by that number 4 guideline. The other three are really moot if students don't listen. Makes me wonder if half of what I say goes in one ear and out the other. I am one of those people that does much better with face to face communication. I like to see the body language of the person I'm talking too. That way I can have clues as to when they are trying to get out of talking to me, if they aren't going to stop talking anytime soon, and if what I'm saying is being perceived correctly. It's one of the things that I dislike about on-line class. The professor cannot see if we are taking it in or lost. We can't see if anyone else feels lost in the subject (which for me is often and I have to work in getting straight). This however is a minor dislike about online classes (I really enjoy not having to drive to class and being able to attend class in my jammies!). I think that communication is key for on-line classes and I'm glad (but unsurprised :o) ) at how organized and thoughtful you are when considering communication in your course designs. Great thoughts!
ReplyDeleteOh good points, girls! And Jeanine...are you just being so nice today because you were so MEAN last week??? :)
ReplyDeleteNo... You know you're one of my favorites!! :o)
ReplyDeleteTwila, you made a good point. I also liked the four guidelines. Yes, communication is so important in every aspect of learning and even of our everyday life. Learning how to communicate should be taught to all students. Now even with great technology available, I hope we can further promote effective communication among students!
ReplyDelete