Blog #7 week ending Oct 22, 2007

Entry #1

Computer-based learning environments can greatly enhance learning. It gives the teacher an alternate way to deliver new learning materials. Because we are moving into a more ‘digital world’, computer-based learning is an interest to students. Students know a lot about technology and having the opportunity to learn new material on the computer gives them the opportunity to learn and to enhance their skills with technology depending on the type of technology being used. In the book there are four procedures to develop a computer-based course:
Create storyboards
Create and assemble media elements
Perform online reviews
Deliver and implement the course
Following these procedures will result in a computer-based system that will greatly help students learn new material. Take time creating a storyboard and assembling media elements so that you know what exactly is going to be taught through the computer-based application/program. Make sure feedback is considered from the reviews. This will help you tailor the application/program to the ways the participants will get the most out of the application. Finally you deliver and implement the course and hope the students learn what is expected from them.Computer-based learning is an excellent way to introduce new learning materials.

Entry #2

In class on Thursday we were introduced to a new software application called Camtasia. I have heard of Camtasia before, but have never used it. It seems like a cool program. Camtasia is where you can record what is happening on the computer screen to use as tutorials. We are at the very beginning stages of learning the new program. When I learn new software I like to use the program hands on. I feel that is the best way to learn. I do look at tutorials just to get an idea to know what to look at when using the program.
We will be using Camtasia when developing our tutorial for GIMPshop. I consider myself an auditory and visual learner and I think adding these video tutorials to our design project will add an extra element to the whole project. The design project is moving along and I like that we are learning a new application along with it.