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.