Artefact 1 - Adobe Connect Project

MDDE 610 provides hands-on experience with a number of computer-based technologies. This course also outlines various ways for selecting and using computer-based technologies within the classroom and utilizes the SECTIONS model to analyze and compare the following educational technologies:

• Asynchronous tools - LMS, CMS, E-mail
• Social software - Blogs, Wikis, Electronic Portfolios
• Synchronous tools - Text chat, Web Conferencing, Videoconferencing
• Push technologies - RSS, Aton
• Podcasting
• Computer Assisted Instruction - Lynda.com

Artefact Summary

A component in MDDE 610 was to form groups of four to five members to select a technology and present a demonstration of the technology to the class. Once the group was formed, we discussed the synchronous software available and unanimously choose to demonstrate Adobe Connect to our fellow classmates.

This was a great opportunity to explore the software and use it to confer with our class. Each of the group members selected two affordances of Adobe Connect. We each researched our affordances in preparation to present the topic to the class.

This first artefact reflects a significant part of my learning journey by focusing on competencies that I developed and fostered in the Instructional Design and Development section; Communication Technologies and Networking section; and Communication and Interpersonal Skills section. Each related competency is listed on the left pane under the Associated Competencies heading and is embedded within my reflection. The predominant competencies learned, as a result of this artefact, are those within the Communication Technologies and Networking section and the Communication and Interpersonal Skills section.

To view the group demonstration artefact, click on the Group Project link located on the left pane.

Reflection

I chose to demonstrate Adobe Connect because in the past I recall being quite fascinated with synchronous software and I value its potential and effectiveness in enhancing an online course. Conferencing is used quite frequently at my institution. Since we have many campuses, we often use this technology to facilitate department meetings. Also, I am aware of instances in the institution where this technology is being used to deliver courses both face-to-face and online.

As a group, we met in discussion forums and social networking sites to create a list of affordances that we felt were worthy of demonstrating to our class (3.1, 4.5, 4.6, 4.8). Each member selected two affordances and developed a learning object (2.5) to add to our Adobe Connect presentation. Each of the group members spent time getting to know Adobe Connect by exploring the interface and the various features it has to offer. Prior to our presentation, we met in an Adobe Connect practice session to rehearse our demonstration. Presenting with many hosts has its challenges; however, we worked well as a team and were respectful of each other's time (3.1, 4.4, 4.5, 4.6, 4.8). At this time, there was much discussion surrounding the advantages and disadvantages of the software (3.2, 3.4, 3.5). A few of the group members had experience working with other software products; therefore, their input concerning benefits and drawbacks of the software, was valuable.

The rehearsal was very stressful; it became apparent to me how crucial it is to have equipment and computers that work properly. The desktop computer that I was using was dated and the Internet connection was unreliable. I found myself having problems throughout the entire rehearsal. I could see and hear my fellow group members; however, they could not see or hear me.  By not testing my equipment prior to our meeting, the group was unable to adequately prepare for the presentation. As a result, I felt as though I let my team members down. However, my team members were fantastic in helping me troubleshoot  by providing me with technical advice (3.4, 4.4). Specifically, one member of the group offered to contact me via telephone to help troubleshoot the problem. The next day I replaced my dated computer with a new up-to-date laptop and I asked a group member to help me test the new equipment to ensure that all the technical issues were resolved. This stressful experience has taught me to test all technical equipment prior to any synchronous conferences and to ensure that students participating in conferences do the same. 

Adobe Connect - This application software contains great tools that allow for effective interactions among all of the students and the instructor. Screen sharing, easy upload of documents for sharing, and whiteboard were a few of my favourites. I found the Adobe Connect software to be easy to use; the interface is subtle, making the screen easy to navigate. It is evident that having good working equipment is critical to an effective presentation. Students must have some experience with equipment to actively participate in this environment. Presenters and participants can easily be distracted from reading the ongoing chat. I feel the most effective method to avoid this type of distraction is to have a coworker mediate and respond to the ongoing chat. This helps the presenter to stay focused and to stay on topic. This type of video conferencing establishes a connection among the members, which fosters student relations. In addition, it is comforting to put a face to a name.  Adobe Connect also provides a recording feature for those unable to attend (3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5)

Comments on our presentation from our classmates were interesting and encouraging (4.4, 4.8). We did encounter a technical glitch where one of our group members was upside down during the presentation. This actually gave the session a more relaxed atmosphere and a lot of laughs. We invited students to participate during our presentation by using interactive tools (4.4, 4.5, 4.6, 4.8). As a result, our class presentation was fun, went smoothly and was very informative. It was clearly evident that this group project provoked our group in developing relationships within. The support, coordination, and collaboration contributed to a fantastic learning experience. Thanks Guys! 

Application

After working with Adobe Connect, I can clearly see that this software can solve many online issues that exist within current course designs. Often students find that online personal connection is lacking, making them feel distant and alone. Adobe Connect allows the student to feel part of a group and valued as a class member, while providing a positive group experience. The support and collaboration that group work presents is beneficial in online learning. Specifically, I plan to incorporate a mock interview into the Job Search course using Adobe Connect where students could perform interviews with each other by taking turns role playing. This type of activity encourages hands-on experience and simulates real life interviews, as well as connects students with their peers and foster student interaction. In addition, I am anxious to put my newly learned skills to work by administering the next department meeting as a way to communicate and collaborate at a distance.