Week 9 (repost)

As a distance education learner at Walden University, I have found myself using both static technology tools and dynamic technology tools. Moller defined static technology tools or media as “operationalized tools used in a manner that allows the user to publish or capture information electronically where the activities resemble a traditional classroom environment (Moller, 2008).” While these static learning tools provide information, it is usually presented from a singular perspective. Therefore, dynamic technology tools, in which learners are engaged in collaboration and communication (Moller, 2008), are also necessary.

I was unaware of all the different technologies that would be a part of my distance education program until I started my Specialist degree. As I previously stated, I find balance in using both static and dynamic tools. As a student at Walden I have utilized static tools such as Wikis, Blogs, Digital libraries, and Podcasts. However, I am more excited about the dynamic technology tools, because most of them are new to me as a educational technologist. Last week, I held my first teleconference with a parent and am also starting to utilize virtual simulators in my classroom using a virtual simulating game system to help teach academic knowledge and skills to my students.

Reference:

Moller, L. (2008). Static and dynamic technological tools. [Unpublished Paper].