Selecting Distance Learning Technologies

Interactive Tours:

A high school history teacher, located on the west coast of the United States, wants to showcase to her students new exhibits being held at two prominent New York City museums. The teacher wants her students to take a "tour" of the museums and be able to interact with the museum curators, as well as see the artwork on display. Afterward, the teacher would like to choose two pieces of artwork from each exhibit and have the students participate in a group critique of the individual work of art. As a novice of distance learning and distance learning technologies, the teacher turned to the school district’s instructional designer for assistance. In the role of the instructional designer, what distance learning technologies would you suggest the teacher use to provide the best learning experience for her students?

Solution:

There are a number of solutions that may address the difficulties associated with this scenario.  Web 2.0 applications allows for collaboration and interaction, these “technologies have extraordinary potential for education and the kinds of learner-engaging functions that should be incorporated into the next generation of course management systems” (Simonson, Smaldino, Albright, & Zvacek, 2012); i.e. wikis, blogging, skype, podcasting, etc.

SmartBoards/Video Communication

To generate optimal learning while creating an environment, which engages students in real time, the use of video communication in conjunction with a SmartBoard may be an excellent substitute for an actual field trip.  SmartBoards are interactive, touch sensitive white boards utilized in many of todays k12 public school classrooms.  Video communication allows individuals and groups to be brought together in real time. The technology allows for two-way communication, which simulates the traditional, face-to-face instructional classroom.  When used with a SmartBoard participants are able manipulate virtual object and contribute visually to the presentation.  The technology enhances collaboration allowing for immediate feedback when questions are asked. 

Virtual Tours/Field Trips

There are a variety of virtual tours offered online.  Many of the major museums offer such tours that allow the user to “virtually” interact with the various artifacts that are on display at the actual museum.  The Metropolitan Museum of Art and The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) offer a variety of tours that a participant may choose to engage in.  The Metropolitan Museum of Art offers several tours providing audio and video to enhance the experience.  MoMA utilizes a more interactive approach to engaging participants.  Individuals are immersed within the art works of Vincent Van Gogh, a clickable self guided tour highlighting the artist various works.  Both tours provide an abundance of information and visuals.

The combination of the various technologies mentioned will allow for the instructor/curator to create an immersive, interactive and engaging environment. 

Reference:

Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2012). Teaching and learning at distance: Foundations of distance education (5th ed.) Boston, MA: Pearson