Abstract
Digital technologies provide learners with the opportunity to be actively involved and engaged in the online learning experience. However, with the rapid growth of technology, it can be challenging for instructors to keep up with the changes and assess the effectiveness of new technologies within online learning environments. In order to successfully integrate technology, two theoretical frameworks are commonly used to evaluate instructional technology effectiveness: the SAMR and TPACK models. Although there are many studies that discuss theoretical frameworks for technology integration, there is still a need to discuss the practical use of technology tools in the live online classroom in higher education. This chapter provides instructors with a practical guide for evaluating and implementing synchronous tools to enhance the student experience and learning. It focuses on four components: virtual classrooms, individual activities, real-time assessments, and group work.
TopIntroduction
Technology plays an essential role in online synchronous learning environments. Synchronous technology tools allow instructors to interact with their students, and the students to interact with their classmates in real time, thereby enriching the learning that occurs in online classes through collaborative learning (or something like that). Although there are many technology tools that can be used for teaching and learning, it is important to understand how the choice of technology can assist in meeting learning goals and helping students to learn.
The Association for Educational Communication and Technology defines instructional and educational technology as “the study and ethical practice of facilitating learning and improving performance by creating, using and managing appropriate technological processes and resources” (Januszewski & Molenda, 2013, p. 1). Although instructors in higher education are considered content experts and have advanced degrees in their field of study, they are not often prepared in or have knowledge of pedagogy or effective technology integration. For this reason, before discussing technology tools to integrate in synchronous teaching and learning, it is important to highlight some of the theoretical frameworks to better understand how to effectively integrate technology in the classroom. Two commonly used theoretical frameworks to assess instructional technology effectiveness are the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) model and the Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, Redefinition (SAMR) model.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Small Group Discussions: A type of online breakout room that allow group members to get together to interact live.
Live Presentations with Integrated Feedback: A type of presentation that allows participants to present live either through slideshow or with camera and gather real-time feedback.
SAMR (Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, Redefinition): It is an assessment model to evaluate how technology can be fully utilized to transform the students’ learning experiences.
Web Conferencing: Software that allow instructors and learners to host online classes.
Online Polling: It is an online response system that allow the instructor to gather live responses.
TPACK (Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge): It is instructor’s knowledge in a subject matter, how to effectively teach it, and how technology can be integrated to help student learn.
Collaborative Whiteboards: An online collaborative workspace that allow participants to draw, write, integrate multimedia, and more.
Microblogging: an online activity of making short frequent posts in an online platform.
Instant Chat: A form of online text-based chatting that requires two or more people to communicate in real time.