Group items tagged

The first instinct is thus to graft technology onto preexisting modes of behavior. Hence PowerPoint slides replace the overhead projector, and the learning or course management system attempts to simulate an in-person classroom

As technologists, however, we have to realize that incremental change is the best we can hope for in many cases

That pace is dictated in large measure by their response to the Three E’s. We have to make them aware of the benefits realized through the effective use of technology. We have to make sure that the platforms they are forced to use are relatively easy to manipulate and conform in some way to the reality in which they exist

Technology of the Week” posters. We actually advertise some of the useful and interesting things that faculty can do with a particular technology. They can then go to the Curriculum Innovation Center or attend a workshop to learn how to use that technology.

Sketchup is remarkably user-friendly! Technology in the classroom is a great tool... it motivates students, stimulates learning, and often levels the playing field. Sketchup is a terrific example... there were gasps of delight and exclamations of enthusiasm as Brian demonstrated just a few of the basics. We all wondered why we had spent so much time with pencil and paper... this looked to be a whole lot more fun and more versatile. Needless to say, every child wanted to try it and they were all able to quickly master a few simple steps with Brian's guidance. I think they would have gladly designed an entire city had we given them time!"

As a teacher, I saw a multitude of curriculum connections; geometry, measurement, logic, problem solving, art, perspective... the list goes on and on.

First, a technology must be evident to the user as potentially useful in making his or her life easier (or more enjoyable). Second, a technology must be easy to use to avoid rousing feelings of inadequacy. Third, the technology must become essential to the user in going about his or her business. This “Three-E Strategy,” if applied properly, has been at the core of every successful technology adoption throughout history.

Technology must be easy and intuitive to use for the majority of the user audience—or they won’t use it.

Complexity, however, remains a potent obstacle to realizing the goal of making technology easy. Omnivores (the top 8 percent of users) revel in complexity. Consider for a moment how much time some people spend creating clothes for their avatars in Second Life or the intricacies of gameplay in World of Warcraft. This complexity gives the expert users a type of power, but is also a turnoff for the majority of potential users.

Web 2.0 and open source present another interesting solution to this problem. The user community quickly abandons those applications they consider too complicated.

any new technology must become essential to users

Finally, we have to show them how the enhanced communication made possible through technologies such as Web 2.0 will enhance their efficiency, productivity, and ability to teach and learn.