Online Teaching Tools: Adapting to the Educational Revolution

Online teaching is not a new phenomenon. Statistics from a 2019 survey by the Canadian Digital Learning Research Association¹ indicate that the move towards online learning pre-dates COVID-19, with almost three-quarters of post-secondary institutions reporting its importance in their long-term planning. The key findings revealed that almost all of them were using video and learning management system technologies. However, it was also noted that there is a pressing need for faculty support and training to encourage increased adoption.

The global pandemic propelled educators into an accelerated exploration of eLearning tools, confronting them with an overwhelming plethora of possibilities, as digital providers upped the game with a constantly expanding selection: YouTube videos, published lectures, animations and simulations, virtual labs and virtual worlds.

Educators and stakeholders are tasked with evaluating online teaching tools and systems, choosing carefully with due consideration of a number of factors, such as quality, usability, affordability, course alignment, and assessment capabilities.

A Revolution in Education

As online teaching gains momentum, the line between the roles of those who deliver and those who receive has become blurred. Education has undergone a revolution, reducing the onus on faculty to be solely responsible for the preparation and transmission of knowledge. Rather, students become empowered to manage their own learning through research and discussion, guided by their instructor, who provides constructive feedback on source analysis, self-evaluation, and performance assessment.

Today’s sophisticated technology offers a vivid virtual environment for students, supplying visual and auditory experiences that engage their interest. Accessible for comment and debate at any time, from any place, digital tools also invite a deeper level of collaboration and interaction.

Online learning presents a smoother path for teachers as well. Beyond simply dispensing content, the tools can show each student’s progress, while pinpointing problem areas and suggesting activities to fill in any gaps.

Choosing the Right Tools

There is an abundant assortment of digital teaching tools available, delighting some and dismaying others. One might liken it to a child’s first trip to a candy shop: so many choices, but how do you narrow it down and pick the best ones!

Fortunately, there are many opportunities for professional development. Educators can also form their own groups to share ideas on researching resources, shaping strategies, and giving their students a superior experience.

Most software providers offer free trials on a limited-time basis. This is an excellent way to see if the platform will benefit you and your students. And who better than those students to contribute their evaluation of its effectiveness? It may be useful to organize a focus group and gain their valuable insights. Checking online reviews and discussion groups is another way to filter through the maze.

You might draw up a checklist for yourself on the criteria that are most relevant to you. Here are some of the considerations:

• Is the software flexible enough for multiple usages? You want a good return on your investment, particularly when budgetary constraints limit the expenditures.
• Does it align with the substance and goals of your programs?
• What about usability? Is it easy to understand and navigate? Is it appropriate for your students? Can it accommodate both small and large groups?
• Is the format visually appealing? Does it facilitate student participation in activities? Can it adapt to multiple learning styles and abilities?
• Does the system include professional support and resources to guarantee successful implementation?
• Can you customize it by rearranging modules and adding content?
• Can the tool monitor student performance and respond with individualized learning paths? Does it produce reports that assist you with assessment? Can you review student work easily?
• Can the students control the pace of their learning? Can they set their own goals? Does it enable self-assessment?
• What technology is required to use the product? How is data stored? Are there sufficient provisions for privacy and security?

The shift toward digital platforms means that both educators and learners are changing their traditional patterns. Students are taking an increasingly active role, exploring different avenues and communicating more confidently; while teachers are finding their place as trusted partners and mentors.

The Way of The Future

Transitioning to any new situation involves challenges. The leap to the online environment has thrust many educators into unfamiliar territory, posing more questions than solutions in many cases. It is an interesting journey, as faculty take a fresh look at the academic landscape, share frustrations and triumphs with their colleagues, and examine the latest course design options.

While COVID-19 abruptly altered habits and protocols, the application of online learning will continue to thrive beyond the pandemic. The impetus to embrace technology – in business, in society, and in the classroom – is the inevitable path of progress. Post-secondary institutions acknowledge that digital teaching systems are shrewd investments, providing flexibility and outreach to a broad student body.

Skill-Building for the Digital Age

Technology is the indisputable architect of our knowledge-based society. New information is acquired every minute, and online real-time access is essential to keep updated. Pedagogy is taking on a more creative and interactive perspective, as instructors channel their students into developing the skills of research, analysis, and application of knowledge, with awareness of its ever-evolving nature. Critical thinking, autonomous learning, and technological expertise are key to successful careers in a competitive arena. Teachers can help their students to acquire and finesse these skills through the wise choice of digital tools.

While face-to-face connections are indispensable in a rich post-secondary experience, online instruction is a vital component in the future face of pedagogy. Faculty, administration, and advisors will continue to investigate the most recent models, as technology balances the physical and virtual classrooms, blending the benefits of each to prepare students for lifelong learning.

^{[1] Nicole Johnson, “Tracking Online Education in Canadian Universities and Colleges,” National Survey of Online and Digital Learning 2019 National Report, Canadian Digital Learning Research Association, http://www.cdlra-acrfl.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/2019_national_en.pdf}