Module+4

=**Module 4 - Technology Tools for Distance Education**= The focus of this module are technology tools online teachers can use to facilitate teaching and learning in distance education environments.

Learning Goals:

 * Become familiar with the Internet and the different communication technologies.
 * Know about different learning management systems and how they work.
 * Explore web-based tools for communicating with students.
 * Explore web-based tools for creating instructional materials.

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** Simonson Chapter 4 - Technologies, the Internet, and Distance Education **
In this chapter, the authors present comprehensive information about the technologies used in distance education systems. Technology, generally, and instructional or communications technology, specifically, are broadly defined. This chapter includes discussions, explanations, and many visuals to provide you with practical knowledge about how information is communicated and how synchronous and asynchronous distance education systems operate. The use of the Internet and the Web for distance education is also discussed extensively. This should give you good background information on "how stuff works" when it comes to technologies for distance education. A basic understanding of how the Internet works and how various communication technologies work will help you with troubleshooting and problem solving while you're using these tools.

**Rice Chapter 3 - Tools for Teaching Online**
Chapter 3 provides an overview of the essential tools online teachers use to perform their jobs. These include tools for communicating, delivering instruction, and designing instructional materials.

NOTE: No journal entry required this week for the readings.

2. Technology Lab
Learn how to use Blackboard Learn and Blackboard Collaborate. Training materials for Blackboard Learn are in Module 3. Training materials for Blackboard Collaborate are in Module 4.

WARNING: If Blackboard seems slow for you, postpone your work at another time. The ACIT and Blackboard Management are still working on problems with the Blackboard Learn system.