Navigate 1.3.1 Discussing the LMS and CMS Quest

There are subtle differences between a CMS and an LMS.  Describing the difference isn't easy because they are not drastically different.  Course Management Systems have a narrower scope than Learning Management Systems.  The focus is on management and distribution of instructor lead courses.  An LMS encompasses a CMS.  Colleges use a software for Learning Management to blend traditional classrooms with the web or to provide web-based courses.  Each of these provide a different level of student involvement.  In each of the resources, it is mentioned that these terms are often used interchangeably or inaccurately.  I can see why! The differences are very subtle and hard to understand!

Navigate 1.2.1 Describe Roles and Functions in Online Learning Environments

The interactions between those involved in online learning roles are important and intertwined in many ways.  Each of these parties has an important to in ensuring program success.  The teacher has obvious requirements such as grading papers, providing support for students, answering any questions or concerns and providing instruction and supplemental resources. Reaching out to students and making a connection requires effort when using an online platform.  Information in the SIS allows the teacher information to make this connection.
An online administration sets guidelines for program use and requirements.  The administration sets expectations for parents, students, and teachers. Ensuring consistency in communication and support between teacher and student is also an important requirement for administration.
Parents can play the role of cheerleader.  They can provide support and motive the student in their studies.  Helping their child learn time management strategies and effective ways to communicate online will be helpful.

Navigate 1.1.1 Delineating Between Synchronous and Asynchronous Content Quest

Asynchronous learning allows students to work within a framework that the instructor has specified within a given time frame.  Blogging is an example of asynchronous learning.  Asynchronous learning provides both the student and the instructor flexibility in many ways.  Time is a very valuable thing and choosing the time of day that is best for you to work on assignments or grade assignments is made possible by asynchronous learning opportunities.  Being organized and managing time wisely are necessary for asynchronous learning.

Synchronous learning allows all participants to come together at the same time to interact together at the same time.  There are several technologies available that provide online learners and instructors to collaborate.  Synchronous learning helps students devote a certain amount of time to the class or lesson.  It provides great opportunity for discussion, debate or lecture.  In my opinion, a combination (hybrid) of the two would provide the best opportunity for online learning.

Navigate 2.1.4 Lecture Capture Quest

Lecture Capture allows an instruction to hold live streaming broadcasts or record lessons/broadcasts that can be viewed later.  The instructor can insert audio, video, visual aids and more into their lesson.  Students can access these webcasts via a computer or a mobile device.  Lecture Capture is the essence of the online classroom.  The benefits of online learning such as flexible class times, convenient access to materials, and 24/7 classroom access can all culminate through Lecture Capture.

This method changes classroom instruction because it provides the student with the chance to view and review lessons that they need extra assistance with.  Differentiation can be difficult through the online learning platform, but allowing students access to recorded lessons can provide additional help and review when needed.

Navigate 2.1.3 Commercial versus Open Virtual Classrooms Quest

Commercial products are most commonly used by schools.  These products are licensed to the school and can't be used outside the school or system that paid for it.  One major concern I have about these products is that students would be required to have purchased these programs as well in order to communicate and submit assignments.  Products such as Microsoft Word, Powerpoint, etc. all require a license purchase.  Adobe .pdf files allow teachers and students to exchange files between each other without and money paid to purchase a license. When considering the financial requirement of some of these products, it makes them seem very limiting.

Navigate 2.1.2 Recorded Session Quest

I chose to explore the possibilities available through Adobe Connect.  There are many products available through Adobe.  The product I enjoyed the most that I think would be most beneficial is the Adobe Presenter.  It is a plug-in to Powerpoint that allows the user to add video, narration, animation and quizzes to a powerpoint.  The video creator tool allows the creator to use both their webcam and the computer screen.  Other offerings, including Adobe Connect Training provides course management that includes the ability to track completion and print reports for individual users. Each of these allow for personalized content, which is beneficial in the online learning environment. 

Navigate 2.1.1 Delivery Methods and the Synchronous Vendor Market

There are many options for delivery via the Synchronous Vendor Market.  I completed my doctoral degree through an online program and during my enrollment period, the college changed platforms three times. After reviewing the different vendors in this market, I have noticed just how much is available.  I know that cost is always a factor, but convenience and ease of use for both student and teacher should be the most important factor when choosing which platform to use.  I am a fan of Google and look forward to learning more about what they have to offer in the education world.

Participate 4.1.3 Digital Health Quest

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle takes work now.  In times before individuals likely received exercise through survival.  Hunting down your own food took work!  Now, our lives have become far less strenuous and sometimes even complacent.  As our society moves further and further into technology, we have to set aside time for our own well being.  While working with the computer, putting the screen at eye level allows your neck to set at a more natural, comfortable angle.  Providing a rest for your wrist also helps alleviate pressure on your arms and hands.  These small changes can help while working on the computer, but one must make an effort to find time away from the computer.  I spend alot of time "plugged in" and my children see that.  For my own health, and theirs, I must find time to be active and away from my technology.  Finding a nice balance will ensure better overall health for us all!  Sometimes, meshing them both together is the best.  I love my ipod while running!!

Participate 4.1.2 Digital Safety and Security

https://www.smore.com/9ayec

4.1.1 Digital Rights and Responsibilities

Acceptable Usage Policies should be clearly defined and available for users.  Having members sign off that they have read and understand the policies would also be beneficial.  Having an effective AUP that is upheld and practiced by users is important for all stakeholders.  It is important for leadership to uphold policies and when violations occur, address them appropriately.  Treating others as you would like to be treated is good advice for all facets of life...online communities are no exception.  Clearly defined policies that are communicated well and upheld make for a more positive, supported digital environment.

Digital Netiquette

https://www.smore.com/t6ftk

Participate 3.1.1 Digital Access

Having access to the internet is a mandatory part of online learning.  Although having access is required, the TYPE of access a student has is a critical aspect to the success of their online learning abilities.  Internet connections have changed a lot since I began using it for school work.  Hearing the old beeps and buzzes of dial up internet are long gone for me.....but that's not the case for some.  Students that do not have access to a fast internet connection are not able to use the internet in the same way.  Not only is internet access an important part, but owning technology that works appropriately with the connection is too.  Student desktops, laptops, and tablets must be able to handle the type of connection the student has.

Initiatives by the government to provide free access to the internet in large cities is an amazing start.  Unfortunately, not everyone lives in a city.  Building infrastructure to provide these services to rural areas must be a focus.  Digital learning is not something that will happen in the future....it is happening NOW.  So, we, as a society, must keep up.

Reputable Resources

What were the three most useful tools or resources resulting from the web walkabout? How can students be taught to safely collect tools and resources that can help them maximize their learning? What policies or procedures might need to be in place to make this possible?

The internet is so vast that it's hard to draw a line between what is true and trustworthy and what just sounds good.  This quest makes me think of the commercial where the guy says, "I know it's true cause I saw it on the internet."  That phrase comes to mind often because so many people (especially students) find information while searching the web and don't think about the info not being true.  Their naivete is a blessing in some instances in life.....but not this one.  While working with my students it is important to remind them that not everything can be trusted for face value on the internet.  Good web design and fancy graphics are not enough to prove the reputability of a website.  Discovering tools such as www.mywot.com allow students to gain better knowledge about a website's credibility.  

Students can be taught to safely collect tools and resources by following the information given on the University of Maryland's library web page.  There's a list of things that students should look at when determining whether or not a website is credible.  Providing students with exercises to check credibility would give them a change to practice this skill.  By being exposed to these opportunities during this walkabout has increased my skills in determining a website's reputability.