Group items tagged

One of the best features of the new Notebook 11 software is the ability to record and attach audio to an object directly inside the program. However, using specialized sounds (i.e. - sound effects) is extremely important and teachers need to be able to find and use various sounds to make their lessons more effective. Since Notebook requires "mp3″ audio files, it's also helpful if these resources provide "mp3″ formatted audio files so teachers don't have to convert the file to use in their Notebook lessons.

When I read this article and what they are doing, I shuddered. I come from a background where distance education courses are specifically re-designed for distance learners. In particular, they are designed to allow students to interact with instructor and other students any time and anywhere. They are designed to ensure that distance learners have adequate support and help from their instructors. This takes longer and means thinking differently about how the course is designed and delivered - not taking the standard classroom model and multiplying it to extra students. Now I'm not against introducing new methods of design to accommodate or exploit new technology, but it must meet certain criteria. Does it at least maintain and if possible increase the interaction between student and instructor and between students? Do all students have equal access to service within the course? Does it provide the flexibility and access that distance learners require? Do students learn better?