ILS 570   Utilizing Instructional Media

Course Description:  Workshop in the effective use of computer based instructional media including the planning, selection and production of materials.

Course Objectives: 

• Demonstrate a general knowledge of instructional processes, instructional media, and copyright issues as they relate to education.
• Use Audio Mixing Software to produce multi-track audio files.
• Produce Streaming Audio/Visual/Text presentations for the WWW.

       


     I felt fortunate to be able to partake in a course such as ILS 570 taught by Professor Stan Walonski.  While each project presented a new challenge, the greatest obstacle was learning the technology which would allow the production of a multimedia program.  Yet, the powerful imagery of the end product provided inspiration for incorporating computer-based technologies into instructional media to produce an engaging presentation of information.

     The well-thought-out series of projects supported the core competencies in technological knowledge and skills.  A project investigating the newest generation of the world wide web,  Web 2.0, and ways in which Web 2.0 applications can be used in formal educational settings changed my definition of authentic experiences and collaborative learning.  Emerging technologies can be used for more than conveying information to students;  they create a social networking platform that allows for active participation and authentic learning for all students (core competency 4D).  Yet, the use and application of these technologies presents questions in professional ethics which support an understanding and application of core competency 4B.  An assignment entitled "Who Shot JFK?" investigated the copyright issues involved in using video clips for instructional purposes in an educational setting.  This exercise developed a respect for intellectual property and illustrated the need for caution by professionals when using and sharing resources.       

       The two most challenging projects in ILS 570 required the production of a multi-track audio presentation using the audio mixing software Audacity and a narrated movie produced in Windows Movie Maker.  These projects served as a reminder that learning happe;ns in a variety of ways, and as a result, teaching must address multiple learner preferences.  The value of instructional design is the ability to target the objectives for instruction.  The integration of multimedia products to enhance the educational process allows us to reach our instructional objectives by providing multiple ways to engage learners and to evaluate their learning outcomes.