Mid-Semester Reflection: F2F Special Topic Facilitation

One of the most memorable moments of this course was to experience presentations with wide variety of topics throughout the semester. Starting with Collaborative Learning Through Wikis,
I liked the idea of presenting the Wiki’s different aspects. In addition to the benefits of Wiki the presenter methodically described the disadvantages too. The presentation was equally poised between public and business use of Wiki. The in-class activity enabled us to have a critical view of Wiki. Simultaneously, we had some hands-on practice of Wiki use.

Online Readiness Assessment presentation was unique in bringing up presenter’s personal experiences into the subject matter. I believe, the findings will be very useful for online learners in deciding their goals and objectives. The presenter systematically developed the assessment benchmarking which will help prepare online learners before embarking in an online course. The references provided with the presentation are very informative. It was a very thought-provoking presentation. Another thought provoking presentation was Virtual Work Teams.
The Presenter’s focus on cultural differences in virtual work teams was very informative and thought provoking. The discussion was facilitated very well. She delivered her presentation agenda very systematically.

In Critical Pedagogy and Online Learning the idea of conducting a debate was very unique. Informative video link at the beginning made the presentation more interesting. Definition of pedagogy was well described. Other informative presentation was Learning Environment Design. The presentation opened a new window of thoughts for me. It showed, all things taken care of, a poor environment design can diminish the effect of instruction. Moreover, the presentation adequately covered the points to be considered in designing environment in online learning. The logically organized presentation held the audience with its sharply designed visuals.

Presentation of Mobile Learning was informative in its introduction of new technology. Moreover, the presentation enabled a first-hand experience for the audience with the introduction of Mobile Learning gadgets in the presentation. I enjoyed the in-class activity of opening a podcast account which showed the user-friendliness of today’s educational technology. The presenter raised the question whether it is appropriate to adopt mobile learning in Instructional Technology in certain circumstances. The discussion showed careful examination of context has no substitute. Another technology related presentation was Organizational Podcasting. Presenter’s introduction of the dilemma in employee communication was best fit for this presentation. She raised the question whether we should spent bulk of our time in facilitating employee communication or maintaining our daily business. The answer was revealed in this presentation in applying moderation and in utilizing technology hence podcasting. It was a very thought-provoking presentation. . In essence, all these presentations were very enjoyable learning experience for me.