Is the Module designed in such a way as to reach/connect with and engage the learners for whom it is intended?
You designed the module to the other asynchronous or synchronous which is great because for those that want to be work "live" can use it and those who want to work on their own time can do it too. You have made it very simple to follow and you give not only good information on probeware, but where to find it being stored in the division to check out.
Is the content delivered in engaging, stimulating and challenging ways?
While I have no background in science, I found that the plans were easy to follow. I thought that the Adobe Connect Meeting can be recorded is a nice feature. Your plans, materials and evaluation were all detailed. For me the subject matter itself is not engaging, which is no fault of your own. However, that could then be a challenge as how can these middle years teachers make their lessons engaging beyond just doing a good job of giving the information to the students. I would think just as important would be tips and ideas for how to get the students excited to use the probeware.
You spoke of some of the teachers being digital immigrants, who need to feel comfortable with the technology while their students would likely feel comfortable with it right away. From what I see of the probeware it is very functional. I enjoyed your video on how to use the probeware. I would also start to look at how to better engage middle years students with the probeware. You asked the question, "What else can this stuff do?" That is a great question and one where you could give your teachers ideas and lessons in interesting ways to use the technology.
Are the learning activities, multimedia elements (if any) and assignments/learner assessment samples relevant, appropriate? Do they help extend learning?
You listed teacher professional development as the key outcome. I like the flexibility of Adobe Connect and its efforts to be more personal like a traditional classroom. The activities were well-done. They seem to match the subject matter and would be easy for a teacher to follow. The multi-media element was your video, which was informative and easy to follow. With the situation you are in geographically being so far away from all of your teachers this allows them to get to know you and your resources. Once they feel comfortable with you, they might be more inclined to contact you.
What is the best aspect of the Module? What is exciting, interesting, unique, creative?
You made a good point about the aftermath of the amalgamation process in terms of PD opportunities becoming more challenging. The best aspect of this module for me was the information on probeware. I felt you were very detailed with the technology, how to use it, resources and where you could find it by listing all of the different locations. If I was a middle years science teacher I could see that you have made many efforts to be flexible, approachable and helpful. Although the technology could be intimidating, I would be put at ease know how you have made yourself available. While the challenge is laid out in terms of distance, you addressed this well with how you could connect and maintain a working relationship with your teachers.
What would make it even better?
I had at times trouble following the report. I was looking for more information on Adobe Connect, and while there was information there, I did not find it convincing in terms of why this is a great resource. From reading your report to getting ready for our Adobe Connect session, I have spent 3-4 hours just on researching Adobe Connect and how to use it. I would consider myself someone fairly tech savvy, and yet I struggled to learn how to use Adobe Connect. You mentioned at the end a quote saying something like it is the best resource of it's kind, but for me the interface and ease of use were challenging. Middle Years Science Teachers could be teaching five or more different subjects. It is hard to find the time to do PD in all of your subjects, especially ones you are not comfortable with. I would fear many teachers might have a similar experience as me and not give it a chance.
I would be looking for solutions that were simple to understand and interfaces that were simple to use. Your video on the probeware an explanation of the probeware technology was excellent and thorough. I would suggest making similar videos for Adobe Connect such as how to set up an Adobe Connect session and some other resources to help teachers with this.
In summary, I would say this is a great narrative on some interesting, interactive technology.
Thanks Ryan! I really appreciate the feedback and will incorporate it into the next stages of this module that i intend to continue developing for our teachers. I realize that there are possibilities for further expansion, and the possibilities for using Adobe Connect and creating videos for that site are potential realities. Within the confines of this course, we were required to create a one hour module, and so that is what i created. I consider it the first stage of a professional development process that might need many more sessions to fully cover and familiarize teachers with technologies such as probeware, but also Adobe Connect, and many of the technologies that we have learned ab out in this course. Again, thanks so much for the fedback. It will help me with further development!
Is the Module designed in such a way as to reach/connect with and engage the learners for whom it is intended?
From reading your narrative, I notice that your intended audience is the middle level math teachers in PVSD, a geographically large school division. By using an Adobe Connect meeting, you will be able to give access to those teachers, no matter where in the school division they happen to be teaching. All of the material you provide is accessible via distance methods, so it would be equally available to all. I know that at times our schools that are farthest away, like Kelliher or Kennedy, feel that they miss out on opportunities, so providing the collaboration online gives them the opportunity to be participating members. I especially liked that you included a list of the Probeware equipment available in our school division, along with its location and information on how to access the material from the host school. I think this makes it easier for teachers to try using probeware if the process by which they sign out material is clearly laid out and easily accessible from a host school.
Is the content delivered in engaging, stimulating and challenging ways?
Because you have used a number of methods of addressing your content, such as real time meetings, asynchronous meetings, videos, print, etc., I think you have provided both engagement and challenge. I particularly found the video engaging, because to me, it was the most inviting way of showing me how to use Probeware. I could visually see how to connect the probes, could see how to use it, and no longer felt as overwhelmed or intimidated by the technological aspects. As a digital immigrant, by viewing the video, I felt that even I, as a math person, could dabble with Probeware in my classroom because I no longer felt that I wouldn't be able to understand how to use the technology. It also allowed me to see the cross-curricular, graphing potential that could be used in math. The print material was more challenging, therefore, I was happy to see you had included a couple of 'ready to use' lessons that I could begin with in my classroom.
Are the learning activities, multimedia elements (if any) and assignments/learner assessment samples relevant, appropriate? Do they help extend learning?
I notice that you have included a number of components; such as a unit plan, a couple of sample lesson activities, an inventory of available materials with a procedure for accessing them, a feedback form for collecting ideas from teachers, a video modeling the technical aspect of using Probeware, synchronous meetings to make connections with your audience, asynchronous access so that you offer the option of working around busy schedules, and I may have forgotten a few. Because you offered such a variety, I think that you have addressed the various needs and learning styles of your audience. In addition, you have provided enough material that people can begin using Probeware in smaller experimental ways, without feeling overwhelmed. At the same time, they can see that there are many 'attachments' or probes to measure temperature, pH of soil, soil moisture content, magnetic field, etc. etc. so they can also extend the use of Probeware in many, many ways.
What is the best aspect of the Module? What is exciting, interesting, unique, creative?
I found the video the most interesting and exciting because it appeals to my learning style as a visual learner. I also found that it made me feel most comfortable with the technological aspects, as it decreased the intimidation factor for a digital immigrant, like myself. I found the variety of media used - video, print, online meetings - to be interesting and unique and allowed a variety of entry point for learners.
What would make it even better?
I recognize that time provides constraints, but in the future, if you were to add a number of short video clips on using a number of 'attachments' or probes, along with a ready-to-go lesson ideas, I think it would be very encouraging for people wanting to experiment with using ProbeWare. As a fellow consultant, I think the easier we make an idea or technique for people to implement in their classroom, the more likely they will be to try it out.
Hi Carol! Thanks so very much for the feedback. I really appreciate it and will incorporate it into my future DE modules that i hope to create for teachers to utilize! As with Ryan, you had identified further video creation as part of the module improvements that I should consider. I agree with you both, and will endeavor to create more visual aids to strengthen my module for future use, and varying different DE modules I create for DE purposes.
After using Adobe Connect, many of my reservations about the program are gone. In practice, it works well. While not the most elegant interface, it is highly functional and works well. For your situation as a consultant with school up to three hours away, this is a great resource (a great resource for anyone really). Again, great work!
Again. Thanks Ryan. It was great to have you in our group. I learned a lot by going through your technology as well. It makes me want to purcahse an IPad to see what Apps are available for me to utilize! All the best,
Thank you for your module Mark! Adobe Connect seems like an absolutely brilliant program. PD days are often lonely for us arts specialists so being able to connect with other specialists around the Division would be amazing. Not only that, doing a class project between schools- the possibilities are endless ! My head is spinning ( and not just from the flu)!
I thought your narrative was well written and really explained the goals of your module. When spoke about the “direct service delivery”, this tool will be especially effective given the vast distance of our school division. You can send less time driving and more time working with teachers. You very clearly explained the tools of Adobe Connect and inviting Dean and I to engage in an actual session clarified how those tools work. The asynchronous aspects of Adobe Connect are also excellent. Being able to watch recorded sessions is so important as teachers all have different schedules. The “immediate access to instructional support as a participant, by merely using the “emoticons” on the top of the page and “raising their hand” is awesome and I know that if I find it neat, little kids would be enthralled!
I watched the video for the probe wear and found the video clear with good volume and very informative. In your module you addressed how not all middle years teachers are “specialized in the sciences, and so are outside of their comfort zones when introduced to new technologies that could potentially help their teaching”. I’m not sure if this was intentional, but having a video where one of the Probe wear devices has a dead battery may help set teachers at ease. They see that it can happen, and that you are not get panicked, the lessons not ruined, and when that happens and if issues arise with technology, as they almost invariably do, that it’s okay- solution is on the horizon.
For some reason in the video it was difficult to see the SMARTboard once you plugged in the temperature gage. Did you dim the lights? This may have caused the visibility to go down. When you turned the lights back on, at the end of the video, I could see the board again. Showing teachers where to click or where to download the software may be helpful.
I went through the attached lesson plans and sample activities and found them very user friendly and I especially appreciated the student friendly language as a non-science person.
Overall I very much enjoyed your module and I really appreciate all of your hard work. Thank you for including me in this learning journey!
Once again, THANK YOU for participating with me today despite having the flu! I hope to use this technology to address certain needs within our division regarding PD. Actually, the video mix ups were totally unintentional, but I DID intend on using the video as if I were actually in front of a classroom and "teaching to the masses", so it kind of worked out. It was also my hope that the video would help to build confidence within my audience in regards to a technology that many simply have not had exposure to (vernier probware). I also hope to develop another module regarding digital microscopy in the future. I think too many times that we as teachers are self-conscious of how we are perceived when in front of an audience. I personally feel it is OK to be human - everyone makes mistakes, and technology has a tendency at times to magnify the possibility and potentiality of "something unplanned happening". We just have to learn to "let go" and "go with the flow".
Dean's Feedback for Mark - Part 1 • Is the Module designed in such a way as to reach/connect with and engage the learners for whom it is intended?
This resource will be extremely useful and practical for middle years science teachers as they begin introducing the probeware kits into their classrooms. Teachers that have less experience with technology will have a steeper learning curve and may experience some frustration with the platform and the probeware as they begin. I believe that with the support you describe both in-person and online, teachers with less technological experience will be able to effectively learn how to use the platform and subsequently the probeware kits. The objectives listed in the narrative of the module clarified the intended outcomes and the "big picture" of the what the module was intended to accomplish. You have designed a relevant module that aligns very well with technological problem solving and inquiry based learning in science. As you mention in your narrative, these are two pillars of the new science curricula in Saskatchewan. • Is the content delivered in engaging, stimulating and challenging ways?
Adobe Connect is a very engaging platform and when used synchronously, participants have the ability to interact with each other and the instructor in many ways. During a synchronous session, students can "raise hands," ask questions, collaborate and interact. I enjoyed your video and commend you on taking this risk. The "pods" in Adobe Connect make it possible to collaborate and interact in a number of ways. I really like the ability to use SMART lessons. I love the idea of pods being used like "sticky notes." I love sticky notes! You have chosen a very interactive and engaging platform to deliver this information.
• Are the learning activities, multimedia elements (if any) and assignments/learner assessment samples relevant, appropriate? Do they help extend learning?
Yes, the learning activities are very relevant and as mentioned, align very well with Saskatchewan Science curricula. The resource you have created will be extremely useful for middle years science teachers and will definitely extend their learning in this area. The feedback form that you have offered at the end of the module will help identify possible gaps in participant learning which will in turn help you to assist teachers as they work through the process of learning and teaching the probeware. The options of synchronous or asynchronous learning allow this module to be accessed by a large number of teachers with varying schedules.
• What is the best aspect of the Module? What is exciting, interesting, unique, creative?
The aspect of the module that I found most exciting and innovative was your creative approach to providing professional development opportunities for teachers in your school division. As you mention in your narrative, the schools in your division are spread out across a large geographic area which can make centralized PD challenging. You have created a resource that is relevant and useful for teachers and at the same time does not require travel. Your school division will benefit financially from your module. As well, teachers requiring this PD will not have to spend time away from their building and most importantly will not have to travel during inclement weather.
Secondly, I must commend you on the YouTube video. As a visual learner I appreciated the video and found that I was better able to understand the use of probeware after watching your demonstration. As a teacher I would also appreciate the personal touch of the video and being able to actually see and hear my Science Consultant demonstrating and explaining new technology would be very meaningful to me. I see your video as a great example of leadership by example.
I believe that one of the challenges of this module would be the use of Adobe Connect and the probeware for teachers with less technological experience. The first part of the module does introduce Adobe Connect, however, do you think this is adequate in supporting the needs of teachers with little experience using this platform? I realize that our modules were confined to 1 hour learning experiences, just wondering if the larger picture includes some specific PD in the use of Adobe Connect? Having said all of this, under your expert tutelage, all participants will find success. Could future PD modules include leading teachers in the use of Adobe Connect to deliver DE courses in their respective subject areas? Perhaps you have started the development of capacity in this area and in doing so will open up future DE options in PVSD.
On a minor note, during the video, some parts were so dark that I could not see the SMART Board. Also, some close up shots of the probeware may be useful when powering up the unit and plugging in the power source and sensors. Again minor considerations and I am certainly not a video director!
Thanks Mark, well done!! What a great resource you have created for the middle years science teachers in PVSD!
Hi Dean. Thanks for participating yesterday, it was much appreciated. Thanks also for the excellent feedback, I will incorporate it into my DE module, as you make some excellent points for me to consider.
Response to Mark Edmonds' DE Module
ReplyDeleteIs the Module designed in such a way as to reach/connect with and engage the learners for whom it is intended?
You designed the module to the other asynchronous or synchronous which is great because for those that want to be work "live" can use it and those who want to work on their own time can do it too. You have made it very simple to follow and you give not only good information on probeware, but where to find it being stored in the division to check out.
Is the content delivered in engaging, stimulating and challenging ways?
ReplyDeleteWhile I have no background in science, I found that the plans were easy to follow. I thought that the Adobe Connect Meeting can be recorded is a nice feature. Your plans, materials and evaluation were all detailed. For me the subject matter itself is not engaging, which is no fault of your own. However, that could then be a challenge as how can these middle years teachers make their lessons engaging beyond just doing a good job of giving the information to the students. I would think just as important would be tips and ideas for how to get the students excited to use the probeware.
You spoke of some of the teachers being digital immigrants, who need to feel comfortable with the technology while their students would likely feel comfortable with it right away. From what I see of the probeware it is very functional. I enjoyed your video on how to use the probeware. I would also start to look at how to better engage middle years students with the probeware. You asked the question, "What else can this stuff do?" That is a great question and one where you could give your teachers ideas and lessons in interesting ways to use the technology.
Are the learning activities, multimedia elements (if any) and assignments/learner assessment samples relevant, appropriate? Do they help extend learning?
ReplyDeleteYou listed teacher professional development as the key outcome. I like the flexibility of Adobe Connect and its efforts to be more personal like a traditional classroom. The activities were well-done. They seem to match the subject matter and would be easy for a teacher to follow. The multi-media element was your video, which was informative and easy to follow. With the situation you are in geographically being so far away from all of your teachers this allows them to get to know you and your resources. Once they feel comfortable with you, they might be more inclined to contact you.
What is the best aspect of the Module? What is exciting, interesting, unique, creative?
You made a good point about the aftermath of the amalgamation process in terms of PD opportunities becoming more challenging. The best aspect of this module for me was the information on probeware. I felt you were very detailed with the technology, how to use it, resources and where you could find it by listing all of the different locations. If I was a middle years science teacher I could see that you have made many efforts to be flexible, approachable and helpful. Although the technology could be intimidating, I would be put at ease know how you have made yourself available. While the challenge is laid out in terms of distance, you addressed this well with how you could connect and maintain a working relationship with your teachers.
What would make it even better?
I had at times trouble following the report. I was looking for more information on Adobe Connect, and while there was information there, I did not find it convincing in terms of why this is a great resource. From reading your report to getting ready for our Adobe Connect session, I have spent 3-4 hours just on researching Adobe Connect and how to use it. I would consider myself someone fairly tech savvy, and yet I struggled to learn how to use Adobe Connect. You mentioned at the end a quote saying something like it is the best resource of it's kind, but for me the interface and ease of use were challenging. Middle Years Science Teachers could be teaching five or more different subjects. It is hard to find the time to do PD in all of your subjects, especially ones you are not comfortable with. I would fear many teachers might have a similar experience as me and not give it a chance.
I would be looking for solutions that were simple to understand and interfaces that were simple to use. Your video on the probeware an explanation of the probeware technology was excellent and thorough. I would suggest making similar videos for Adobe Connect such as how to set up an Adobe Connect session and some other resources to help teachers with this.
In summary, I would say this is a great narrative on some interesting, interactive technology.
Great job Mark!
Thanks Ryan! I really appreciate the feedback and will incorporate it into the next stages of this module that i intend to continue developing for our teachers. I realize that there are possibilities for further expansion, and the possibilities for using Adobe Connect and creating videos for that site are potential realities. Within the confines of this course, we were required to create a one hour module, and so that is what i created. I consider it the first stage of a professional development process that might need many more sessions to fully cover and familiarize teachers with technologies such as probeware, but also Adobe Connect, and many of the technologies that we have learned ab out in this course. Again, thanks so much for the fedback. It will help me with further development!
DeleteIs the Module designed in such a way as to reach/connect with and engage the learners for whom it is intended?
ReplyDeleteFrom reading your narrative, I notice that your intended audience is the middle level math teachers in PVSD, a geographically large school division. By using an Adobe Connect meeting, you will be able to give access to those teachers, no matter where in the school division they happen to be teaching. All of the material you provide is accessible via distance methods, so it would be equally available to all. I know that at times our schools that are farthest away, like Kelliher or Kennedy, feel that they miss out on opportunities, so providing the collaboration online gives them the opportunity to be participating members. I especially liked that you included a list of the Probeware equipment available in our school division, along with its location and information on how to access the material from the host school. I think this makes it easier for teachers to try using probeware if the process by which they sign out material is clearly laid out and easily accessible from a host school.
Is the content delivered in engaging, stimulating and challenging ways?
Because you have used a number of methods of addressing your content, such as real time meetings, asynchronous meetings, videos, print, etc., I think you have provided both engagement and challenge. I particularly found the video engaging, because to me, it was the most inviting way of showing me how to use Probeware. I could visually see how to connect the probes, could see how to use it, and no longer felt as overwhelmed or intimidated by the technological aspects. As a digital immigrant, by viewing the video, I felt that even I, as a math person, could dabble with Probeware in my classroom because I no longer felt that I wouldn't be able to understand how to use the technology. It also allowed me to see the cross-curricular, graphing potential that could be used in math. The print material was more challenging, therefore, I was happy to see you had included a couple of 'ready to use' lessons that I could begin with in my classroom.
Are the learning activities, multimedia elements (if any) and assignments/learner assessment samples relevant, appropriate? Do they help extend learning?
ReplyDeleteI notice that you have included a number of components; such as a unit plan, a couple of sample lesson activities, an inventory of available materials with a procedure for accessing them, a feedback form for collecting ideas from teachers, a video modeling the technical aspect of using Probeware, synchronous meetings to make connections with your audience, asynchronous access so that you offer the option of working around busy schedules, and I may have forgotten a few. Because you offered such a variety, I think that you have addressed the various needs and learning styles of your audience. In addition, you have provided enough material that people can begin using Probeware in smaller experimental ways, without feeling overwhelmed. At the same time, they can see that there are many 'attachments' or probes to measure temperature, pH of soil, soil moisture content, magnetic field, etc. etc. so they can also extend the use of Probeware in many, many ways.
What is the best aspect of the Module? What is exciting, interesting, unique, creative?
I found the video the most interesting and exciting because it appeals to my learning style as a visual learner. I also found that it made me feel most comfortable with the technological aspects, as it decreased the intimidation factor for a digital immigrant, like myself. I found the variety of media used - video, print, online meetings - to be interesting and unique and allowed a variety of entry point for learners.
What would make it even better?
I recognize that time provides constraints, but in the future, if you were to add a number of short video clips on using a number of 'attachments' or probes, along with a ready-to-go lesson ideas, I think it would be very encouraging for people wanting to experiment with using ProbeWare. As a fellow consultant, I think the easier we make an idea or technique for people to implement in their classroom, the more likely they will be to try it out.
Great job, Mark!
Hi Carol!
DeleteThanks so very much for the feedback. I really appreciate it and will incorporate it into my future DE modules that i hope to create for teachers to utilize! As with Ryan, you had identified further video creation as part of the module improvements that I should consider. I agree with you both, and will endeavor to create more visual aids to strengthen my module for future use, and varying different DE modules I create for DE purposes.
After using Adobe Connect, many of my reservations about the program are gone. In practice, it works well. While not the most elegant interface, it is highly functional and works well. For your situation as a consultant with school up to three hours away, this is a great resource (a great resource for anyone really).
ReplyDeleteAgain, great work!
Again. Thanks Ryan. It was great to have you in our group. I learned a lot by going through your technology as well. It makes me want to purcahse an IPad to see what Apps are available for me to utilize! All the best,
ReplyDeleteMark
Thank you for your module Mark! Adobe Connect seems like an absolutely brilliant program. PD days are often lonely for us arts specialists so being able to connect with other specialists around the Division would be amazing. Not only that, doing a class project between schools- the possibilities are endless ! My head is spinning ( and not just from the flu)!
ReplyDeleteI thought your narrative was well written and really explained the goals of your module. When spoke about the “direct service delivery”, this tool will be especially effective given the vast distance of our school division. You can send less time driving and more time working with teachers.
You very clearly explained the tools of Adobe Connect and inviting Dean and I to engage in an actual session clarified how those tools work. The asynchronous aspects of Adobe Connect are also excellent. Being able to watch recorded sessions is so important as teachers all have different schedules.
The “immediate access to instructional support as a participant, by merely using the “emoticons” on the top of the page and “raising their hand” is awesome and I know that if I find it neat, little kids would be enthralled!
I watched the video for the probe wear and found the video clear with good volume and very informative. In your module you addressed how not all middle years teachers are “specialized in the sciences, and so are outside of their comfort zones when introduced to new technologies that could potentially help their teaching”. I’m not sure if this was intentional, but having a video where one of the Probe wear devices has a dead battery may help set teachers at ease. They see that it can happen, and that you are not get panicked, the lessons not ruined, and when that happens and if issues arise with technology, as they almost invariably do, that it’s okay- solution is on the horizon.
For some reason in the video it was difficult to see the SMARTboard once you plugged in the temperature gage. Did you dim the lights? This may have caused the visibility to go down. When you turned the lights back on, at the end of the video, I could see the board again. Showing teachers where to click or where to download the software may be helpful.
I went through the attached lesson plans and sample activities and found them very user friendly and
I especially appreciated the student friendly language as a non-science person.
Overall I very much enjoyed your module and I really appreciate all of your hard work. Thank you for including me in this learning journey!
Once again, THANK YOU for participating with me today despite having the flu! I hope to use this technology to address certain needs within our division regarding PD. Actually, the video mix ups were totally unintentional, but I DID intend on using the video as if I were actually in front of a classroom and "teaching to the masses", so it kind of worked out. It was also my hope that the video would help to build confidence within my audience in regards to a technology that many simply have not had exposure to (vernier probware). I also hope to develop another module regarding digital microscopy in the future. I think too many times that we as teachers are self-conscious of how we are perceived when in front of an audience. I personally feel it is OK to be human - everyone makes mistakes, and technology has a tendency at times to magnify the possibility and potentiality of "something unplanned happening". We just have to learn to "let go" and "go with the flow".
DeleteAll the best,
Mark
Dean's Feedback for Mark - Part 1
ReplyDelete• Is the Module designed in such a way as to reach/connect with and engage the learners for whom it is intended?
This resource will be extremely useful and practical for middle years science teachers as they begin introducing the probeware kits into their classrooms. Teachers that have less experience with technology will have a steeper learning curve and may experience some frustration with the platform and the probeware as they begin. I believe that with the support you describe both in-person and online, teachers with less technological experience will be able to effectively learn how to use the platform and subsequently the probeware kits. The objectives listed in the narrative of the module clarified the intended outcomes and the "big picture" of the what the module was intended to accomplish. You have designed a relevant module that aligns very well with technological problem solving and inquiry based learning in science. As you mention in your narrative, these are two pillars of the new science curricula in Saskatchewan.
• Is the content delivered in engaging, stimulating and challenging ways?
Adobe Connect is a very engaging platform and when used synchronously, participants have the ability to interact with each other and the instructor in many ways. During a synchronous session, students can "raise hands," ask questions, collaborate and interact. I enjoyed your video and commend you on taking this risk. The "pods" in Adobe Connect make it possible to collaborate and interact in a number of ways. I really like the ability to use SMART lessons. I love the idea of pods being used like "sticky notes." I love sticky notes! You have chosen a very interactive and engaging platform to deliver this information.
Dean's Feedback for Mark - Part 2
ReplyDelete• Are the learning activities, multimedia elements (if any) and assignments/learner assessment samples relevant, appropriate? Do they help extend learning?
Yes, the learning activities are very relevant and as mentioned, align very well with Saskatchewan Science curricula. The resource you have created will be extremely useful for middle years science teachers and will definitely extend their learning in this area. The feedback form that you have offered at the end of the module will help identify possible gaps in participant learning which will in turn help you to assist teachers as they work through the process of learning and teaching the probeware. The options of synchronous or asynchronous learning allow this module to be accessed by a large number of teachers with varying schedules.
• What is the best aspect of the Module? What is exciting, interesting, unique, creative?
The aspect of the module that I found most exciting and innovative was your creative approach to providing professional development opportunities for teachers in your school division. As you mention in your narrative, the schools in your division are spread out across a large geographic area which can make centralized PD challenging. You have created a resource that is relevant and useful for teachers and at the same time does not require travel. Your school division will benefit financially from your module. As well, teachers requiring this PD will not have to spend time away from their building and most importantly will not have to travel during inclement weather.
Secondly, I must commend you on the YouTube video. As a visual learner I appreciated the video and found that I was better able to understand the use of probeware after watching your demonstration. As a teacher I would also appreciate the personal touch of the video and being able to actually see and hear my Science Consultant demonstrating and explaining new technology would be very meaningful to me. I see your video as a great example of leadership by example.
Dean's Feedback for Mark - Part 3
ReplyDelete• What would make it even better?
I believe that one of the challenges of this module would be the use of Adobe Connect and the probeware for teachers with less technological experience. The first part of the module does introduce Adobe Connect, however, do you think this is adequate in supporting the needs of teachers with little experience using this platform? I realize that our modules were confined to 1 hour learning experiences, just wondering if the larger picture includes some specific PD in the use of Adobe Connect? Having said all of this, under your expert tutelage, all participants will find success. Could future PD modules include leading teachers in the use of Adobe Connect to deliver DE courses in their respective subject areas? Perhaps you have started the development of capacity in this area and in doing so will open up future DE options in PVSD.
On a minor note, during the video, some parts were so dark that I could not see the SMART Board. Also, some close up shots of the probeware may be useful when powering up the unit and plugging in the power source and sensors. Again minor considerations and I am certainly not a video director!
Thanks Mark, well done!! What a great resource you have created for the middle years science teachers in PVSD!
Hi Dean. Thanks for participating yesterday, it was much appreciated. Thanks also for the excellent feedback, I will incorporate it into my DE module, as you make some excellent points for me to consider.
ReplyDelete