Design Experiment 3

1. Online content that comes with the textbook you use for your course. Although, I have typically been one to purchase hard copy textbooks during my tenure in higher education, I have had two experiences with supplemental instruction materials being provided by a publisher.  Each time, I was quite successful with the “extras” provided. In one particular case, the supplemental course material proved to be valuable as a complete glossary of terms used in the book was readily available, as well as a sample quizzes. Due to the course expectations, and the limited amount of information being provided via a PowerPoint live-lecture presentation, the supplemental material was a great tool to use…in essence I created a flipped classroom experience for myself.  For example, I took it upon myself to ask the professor to send his PowerPoint presentation prior to the class session so that I could read what was required and take notes directly onto the PowerPoint.  This allowed me to be prepared for the class and have specific questions ready to be asked.  One of the things that I reflected upon when I used this type of supplemental instruction, was the issue of access.  I had the funds to purchase the ‘extras’, while some of my classmates did not.  I knew that these supplements could assist others, and therefore I shared. 

Another feature that I enjoyed when using a digital textbook, was that of a Search feature.  I could easily word, or phrase search anything referenced in a live lecture.  This Search feature proved to be a great asset when taking quizzes or other assessments.

I have learned that with digital textbooks one can also save time and energy.  For example, I learned one does not have to wait for the textbook to arrive in the mail.  Another advantage is that one does not have to be weighed down with the bulk of the book.  I could simply access it via my Kindle App. 

Many universities and colleges are issuing laptops to first-time students when they arrive to campus; my alma mater, St. Mary’s University, has practiced doing so with new students, thus affording the students to have access to digital textbooks; saving costs for the students and their families. 

The only disadvantage I view in using digital textbooks is when there is a loss of internet service.  Without access to the World Wide Web, there is a loss in opportunity to obtain an education.

2. YouTube and Tell us what you found.

Prior to taking courses at Texas A&M University - Commerce, I had limited experience with YouTube; I typically used YouTube for DIY videos and to research music artists. 

I have had to use YouTube this term and last term for supplemental instruction.  Various professors have linked YouTube videos as required ‘viewings’ for course learning outcomes.  And, due to the fact that most of my doctoral courses have been online at TAMUC, the use of YouTube videos seems to increase each semester. 

The advantage of using YouTube is that the resource is easy to navigate, and readily available (if there is consistent access to the World Wide Web).  In taking this course, I have had to research via YouTube various software or Apps proposed for research and use.  It has also been interesting to read in other people's posts and blogs what they have researched via YouTube.  It seems as you say, there is so much posted on YouTube, that I have found myself caught in an endless loop of education, one video leads to another.  

What I researched were various types of instruction for my advanced statistics course.  I found some videos valuable, however those that were difficult to follow had to the do with the quality of ‘video’ instruction because of the style of the professor.  I learned that I know my level of knowledge and my favored learning style, thus became a challenge for me to seek a fit when using online instruction/YouTube video instruction for my knowledge level and distinct learning style. I found that during this particular exercise, I had to discern if the video would prove valuable for supplemental instruction.  To do so, I had to continually view video for 2-3 minutes.  This was time consuming and at times confusing.  I also learned that the length of the video and more importantly the presentation format were other factors in my satisfaction level of supplemental instruction.  

In relation to this assignment, the blog, I would say that it is very important that students are encouraged to have a good internet connection; speed matters. 

Without a good connection, videos cannot be viewed properly.

Additionally, the instructor should take into account what others and I have been speaking to in weekly our discussion posts; learning styles do matter.  And, that an individualized (and class) assessment should be completed to learn where the student stands in his/her level of knowledge; equally important when formatting a course for online instruction is that the professor should take into consideration how much the student is being asked to comprehend, and later show as a satisfactory outcome.