Key Information
About the content
Emerging technologies are quickly gaining momentum in the field of virtual K-12 instruction. In this course, we will explore how the latest trends in the use of technology affect student learning and engagement. What innovative learning spaces and tools are available to instructors? How can instructors best utilize free and open resources to more deeply engage students in their learning? What impact can the use of emerging technologies have on student retention and performance? We will discuss the possibilities and challenges of using technology in fully online environments, although many of the ideas can be applied to blended and traditional environments as well. Learners will compare and contrast tools for use in K-12 virtual instruction, as well as examine best practices for implementing and managing these tools. Upon completing this course, you will be able to: 1. Understand the role of technology in the distribution of content, the facilitation of collaborative activities, and the assessment of students, courses, and organizations. 2. Identify and evaluate existing and emerging technologies for their value in virtual course instruction and curriculum development. 3. Design and assess a learning activity that utilizes social learning tools. 4. Design and assess a learning activity or curricular program that uses game-based strategies and/or badges to deepen student engagement in virtual courses. 5. Research, critically evaluate, and employ open content in virtual education. 6. Debate the role of MOOCs in virtual K-12 education.
Syllabus
- Week 1 - Week 1: The Role of Technology in Virtual Education
Welcome to the course! Begin by reading the Course Overview and familiarizing yourself with our course. This week we will explore the role of technology in virtual education, evaluating technologies for use, and implementing technology in the virtual classroom... - Week 2 - Week 2: Social Technologies in Virtual Education
In week two, we will explore collaborative and social learning technologies. - Week 3 - Week 3: Game-based Learning & Badges in Virtual Education
In week three, we will discuss game-based learning, badging, augmented reality, and wearable technologies. You will also have the opportunity to submit your assignment and evaluate three of your classmates' work. - Week 4 - Week 4: Open Content in Virtual Education
In week four, we will explore open educational content, web resources, and MOOCs in the context of K-12 education. - Week 5 - Week 5: Course Reflection
In our last week, I'll share some final thoughts about virtual education. Be sure to review the course material before taking the Final Exam. Good luck!
Instructors
Melissa Joell Loble, M.A., MBA
Instructor
UC Irvine Extension
Content Designer
The University of California, Irvine (commonly known as UC Irvine) is a campus of the University of California, founded in 1965 and located in Irvine.
Located in the centre of Orange County, UC Irvine serves the five most populated regions in the United States.
Platform
Coursera is a digital company offering massive open online course founded by computer teachers Andrew Ng and Daphne Koller Stanford University, located in Mountain View, California.
Coursera works with top universities and organizations to make some of their courses available online, and offers courses in many subjects, including: physics, engineering, humanities, medicine, biology, social sciences, mathematics, business, computer science, digital marketing, data science, and other subjects.
