There is a vast variety of technologies that could
incorporated into the environment of adult learners. Careful consideration must
be given to which technologies might be engaging and which ones may not be so
engaging. I have chosen to investigate one of each with Video Tutorials being intriguing and Search Engines being uninteresting.
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VIDEO TUTORIALS
“allow a classroom
setting to come to life, offering different perspectives and tools that
students might not normally be able to take advantage of in their learning”
(Windermere, n.d., para. 1). This technology offers recorded online lessons
with specific learning goals. It may be “viewed on computers through either
DVDs or online streams, as well as mobile devices” (Windermere, n.d.,
para. 2). I found video tutorials to be engaging as they provide opportunities
to learn by doing. They may contain examples, experiences, and applications. Furthermore,
their visual and audio components are more captivating than lectures and
reading material. Importantly, it can be viewed at the learner’s own pace and
convenience. As an educator, I would implement video tutorials to assist
students with development and application of skills. I would also use this
technology as a resource for additional learning opportunities. Below is a link
with more information on Video Tutorials.
http://work.chron.com/importance-video-tutorials-students-16633.html
Reference
Windermere, A. (n.d.). What
is the importance of video tutorials to students? Houston Chronicle. Retrieved
from http://work.chron.com/importance-video-tutorials-students-16633.html
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SEARCH
ENGINE “is a software
program that searches for sites based on the words that you designate as search
terms. Search engines look through their own databases of information in order
to find what it is that you are looking for” (Boswell, 2016, para. 2). I suspect
search engines may not be viewed as engaging as they are often associated with
research. They contain large amounts of resources and information for learners
to sift and search through, which can be time consuming. Effective use of
search engines requires knowing where to look and how to apply best practices
for the searches. Search engines may not be a very appealing technology. Yet,
they are useful and has an important place in learning. As an educator, I would
utilize search engines for their intended purposes, which is to locate
information. However, I would allow for search of content that interests
learners via engines of their choice and familiarity.
Below is a link with more
information on Search Engines.
https://www.lifewire.com/how-does-search-engine-work-3482032
Reference
Boswell, W. (2016). How does a search engine work? Lifewire.com.
Retrieved from https://www.lifewire.com/how-does-search-engine-work-3482032
