Integration of audio/video/podcasts into lesson
plans just seems natural in today’s society. In my workplace, it has become
second nature for physicians to utilize podcasts when they are physically
unable (or unwilling) to attend a live session. As King & Cox (2011)
mentions, new technology must be incorporated into educational activities,
because if adult learners’ needs are not met they will not participate.
There are many pros to utilizing
multimedia in lessons plans, due to the different styles of learning and poor
attention span of learners. As previously mentioned, the availability of audio
and videos that allow users to learn. The ability to listen to a podcast
through online streaming content is a plus, as well as the ability to download
onto a portable audio device (King & Cox).
However the use of podcasts may
discourage learners from attending live sessions, thus resulting in lower
physical attendance at lectures. This is a concern in my workplace when physicians
(some renowned) are invited to speak to a group of resident physicians and the
crowd is very small. It can be embarrassing for both the presenter and the
host.
From the perspective of an adult
online learner, I have found the integration of technology in courses to be
more impactful than simple Powerpoint presentations and text documents from
instructors. However, there is a fine line between the use and over-use of
technology. I was particularly impressed with one professor’s use of technology
until she implemented mandatory Wimba classroom session – which takes away the
advantage of online learning. In subsequent courses, professors have done a
better job of having virtual office hours and Wimba sessions that were recorded
for those who could not participate in the live session.
Regarding favorite podcasting
sites, I really can’t name any, as the only podcasting I do is those related to
educational courses.
References:
Sonora,
ReplyDeleteYour comment about how podcasts may decrease attendance at an event or conference is a valid one, although it seems like a great way to share information across a broader audience and it is certainly much less expensive. The federal government is starting to implement virtual conferences where all the guest speakers present via a podcast. There are also virtual forums where you can comment about the presentations and dialogue with other attendees. I like the podcast format because I can replay sections of a presentation that I may have not completely understood, did not catch the first time around, or just thought was very important and I want to listen to it again. You do miss out on that personal interaction when attending a virtual conference but it is convenient and allows me to listen to some wonderful presenters that I may not otherwise get to hear.
Sonora, I too believe your comment about podcasts decreasing physical attendance is a concern in the adult education realm. Low turnout can insult guest speakers and decrease institutions' motivation to secure future presenters.
ReplyDeleteI also agree that too much of a good thing is still too much. Overuse of technology does not make a course more interesting and cutting edge. In fact non-essential integration of technology in a program leaves me wondering who or what is driving the program planning. I understand that higher education is becoming more competitive and securing tuition-paying students is prioritized at the higher end. However, I am more interested in enrolling in a program in which the use of technology enhances the educational format and makes practical sense. It is not being used simply for bragging rights.
I don't fault the professors. They are receiving their instructions from administrators who want their institutions to appear competitive. I guess I am more of a paper, pencil and physical book learner. I do not like the depersonalization of the computer. We are always broadcasting our views and opinions, but we are more and more lacking human interaction. At least that's my humble opinion anyway.
Sonora,
ReplyDeleteI might as well just copy and paste Tonya’s response here; she did a good job of saying everything I wanted to say, haha. When you spoke about the lectures and not many people showing up I immediately thought of the 80’s movie “Real Genius”, where a young kid walks into a prestigious university classroom and the instructor is speaking from a tape recorder and all the students are taping the session on their own recorders (the picture of the movie scene is on the below blog address); some good interaction and learning going on there. I believe this would be an over-use of technology that you talked about. The ability to record and playback the content is a great tool when used in addition to other learning methods.
http://soundstudiesblog.com/2011/08/15/play-it-again-and-again-sam-the-tape-recorder-in-film-part-three-on-the-1980s/real-genius/
Sonora I agree with you concerns about applying the right technology for the learner. I had not thought about podcasts possibly detracting from the live environment, but I guess it is a possibility if no one shows up for the live lecture! Who would have guessed that doctors would rather be elsewhere, just kidding, well maybe...
ReplyDeleteI agree with Dean that podcasts are probably good when used in combination with other technologies and instructional methodologies. Oh, concur that podcasts are better than a PowerPoint but have you ever thought that someone could make a video podcast of themselves giving a lecture using PowerPoint? Uh, I shudder at the very thought....Death by PowerPoint just became portable.