Learning Experiences

The Past Two Weeks

                Over the past two weeks, I have engaged in multiple web searches for technology available for educators.  Initially, I began with a database search for research articles.  The UIndy library webpage directly links students to various databases with free access with a university log in. I started with a database search because I am comfortable with performing these type of searches.  Instead of using CINAHL, I ventured into a new database, ERIC. I felt this database would have more relevant education information.  The most interesting article was written by Jeremie Seror, a language professor at the University of Ottawa. He wrote ShowMe! Enhanced Feedback Through Screencasting Technology to demonstrate how screencasts can aid instructors on providing valuable feedback to students. The combination of voice guided comments and on screen editing received positive feedback from his students.  A link was provided in the article showing this type of feedback; however it had expired or changed location. Intrigued by the idea of screencasting, I began a general web search using Bing.  The most helpful tutorial found was through a website called TeacherTrainingVideos.com. In the tutorial, found here, the speaker shows how to use Jing to capture video with voice recording and easily share via email.  

Learning Experience

The Jing screencast process seemed easy enough so I tried to create one of my own. Building on the course discussed in my last post, I wanted to create a screencast showing a functionality of the ACE website. Several problems arose at first with my new endeavor. First, I recorded a whole sequence with no sound.  Jing allows the user to turn on and off the microphone via the recording toolbar.  I quickly figured out how to turn it back on and started on my second try. Next, the scroll bar on my internet browser was no longer visible during the recording. The touchpad on my laptop does have a scrolling option, but it took me another few seconds to figure out how to hold down the touchpad then scroll.  On my third recording, my cell phone rang and my dogs decided to bark at the mail truck. These events proved the microphone could pick up background noise.  Finally, on my fourth try, I was able to record the screencast successfully.  Jing allows the user to save the video file to their computer or provides a hyperlink to Screencast.com. I recommend using the hyperlink because my laptop was unable to find a program to view the video.  My completed screencast on how to create events in the calendar on ACE can be found at Screencast.com.  

  

New Knowledge

From this experience I have learned trial and error is necessary when dealing with new technology. The end user should not become discouraged when the first attempts are failures. I feel satisfied with my first screencast and will continue to seek new ways to apply the technology to my role as an educator.  In addition, each type of technology is not perfect. For example, some programs only allow for limited free storage space or none at all.  Jing's screencast also only allows five minute recordings. If more time were necessary, Jing would not be the program of choice. I have learned to take both the positive and negative aspects of the technology into consideration during my evaluation.

Introduction (Post #1)

Introduction

My name is Jessica Clendenen BSN, RN, CNOR. I am a registered nurse currently working as a staff nurse and part-time educator in the cardiovascular operating rooms (CVOR) at St. Francis hospital in Indianapolis. I I received my baccalaureate education at Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis in 2007. My experience includes the general operating room where procedures including orthopedic, neurology, urology, plastic, and gynecology procedures are performed. I chose to specialize in cardiovascular surgery due to the challenge and complexity of the cases.  After two years in the CVOR, I earned my certification in the operating room. Currently, I am pursuing a master’s degree in nursing education. I have yet to decide whether to pursue a career in hospital based education or in a collegiate setting. The collegiate setting seems complex and at times daunting, but I feel it may be where my passion for education lies. 

Note: We were not caring for any patients during this photo

             My fiancé Clint and I live in a home on the south side of Indianapolis. We have three dogs, Harley, Vena, and Biscuit. Our dogs are varying sizes and breeds. We have a Chihuahua who weighs in at four pounds and “rules the roost.” Vena is terrier mix who suffers from the middle child syndrome and Biscuit is a sweetheart pit bull mix.  We enjoy traveling and taking the dogs for hikes in the state parks. In my free time, I enjoy reading fiction books and completing DIY projects in our home. Over the next year I hope to become an expert at multitasking as I will be balancing work, school, and wedding planning!

Course

            During this semester, I would like to continue our work on the LAUNCH program. The LAUNCH program is a type of orientation to the technology services utilized by University of Indianapolis. Many area hospitals have created cohort groups with UIndy in order to increase the number of baccalaureate and masters prepared nurses within the organizations. As these students begin the cohort program, some have been overwhelmed with the technology they are expected to utilize. Last semester my fellow students and I created a program called Learning ACE My UIndy Nursing Cohort Help (ie LAUNCH) in order to provide a more in-depth orientation to the technology. The course objectives we developed last year are as follows:

1. Prepare practicing nurses to advance their degrees through participation in the Cohort program
2. Avoid perception of stress or anxiety to program initiation
3. Perform confident navigation of UIndy technology services

We included an at-home follow up module to the LAUNCH program, but were unable to develop it further. Through this technology course, I would like to learn how to develop technological learning methods for the follow up module. In addition, I would like to have a method for all types of learners, including auditory, visual, and kinaesthetic. A desired goal would be to have each developer, my fellow students, create a portion of the follow up module by the end of the semester. 

Learning Reflection

            My journey through the master’s program allows me to continually learn. Through the last two weeks, I have learned how limited I have been in view of technology. Previously, I felt very savvy in navigating the internet, Microsoft Office, and creating presentations. I felt confident in my ability to excel in a completely online course. However, as I read the syllabus and assignments for this course I immediately panicked. The names of websites or programs were completely foreign and all my confidence turned into stress. Our first assignment was familiar, a forum post and readings, so I started there. After exploring with Diigo and Blogger, I gained some of my confidence back. Now as I read through course assignments and outside sources I feel excitement.  Immediately I think of how I could apply this type of technology or teaching to my role as an educator. One drawback I usually encounter is the cost for technology. However, I have also learned how to read other users comments in order to determine if a free version exists. Throughout the rest of this semester and in my future career, I will no longer limit my view of technology. I understand there is a vast amount of information and will be open to trying new methods to gain the best outcomes for my learners.