One strategy for infusing technology into the classroom is to use webconferencing such as Blackboard Collaborate (aka Elluminate). Replacing 'seat time' with a webinar for students not only utilizes technology but reduces the time and expense of driving to campus. As adjunct faculty teaching fully online, I use webconferencing to enrich my class with experts in their field. These guest speakers may or may not be local but add another dimension to the learning experience. The webinars are well attended and receive high ratings and feedback.
Certainly CGU has many adult learners who are making a long commute in challenging circumstances with LA traffic! Additionally, this presents valuable opportunities to include guest speakers from around the world. In all likelihood, students are already extremely familiar with this commonly used tool through work or other environments. Therefore, implementing the strategy in your course would be fairly easy.
Academic Computing can assist you with getting comfortable and setting up your sessions. You will see Web Based Conferencing listed on our OIT Services page. Just email cgu.learning@cgu.edu for information and orientation to Elluminate/Collaborate.
Carleen
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