Topic 5 - E-learning and pedagogical benefits

In this week's assignment, we needed to locate an e-Learning course (synchronous or asynchronous) and describe its pedagogical benefits for teaching and learning. Below is a brief description of the weekly assignment:

Step 1. Search an e-Learning course & post a summary on e-Portfolio (Individual work) Please include such information:

1)  Course topic, course source & link, learning objectives, 

2)  Target learners,

3)  Course evaluation criteria

4) Pedagogical benefits of this e-Learning course

5) Your other reflections about this course (e.g. advantages, disadvantages, effectiveness, reasons for recommending this course….)

Step 2. Share within your group

Step 3. Select a best e-Learning course, refine the e-Learning course report, and post it on e-Portfolio (Group work).

Group 2's e-learning course suggestion: 

Our group suggests the course proposed by Matthew, the "Dinosaur Ecosystems".

1) Course topic:

Dinosaur Ecosystems

2) Course source & link:

https://www.edx.org/course/dinosaur-ecosystems-kong-long-de-sheng-hkux-dinox

3) Learning objectives:

1. To have basic knowledge of dinosaur biology

2. To understand how paleontologists reconstruct ancient ecosystems

3. To learn about the traits of a Late Cretaceous dinosaur ecosystem

4) Target learners:

Anyone interested in dinosaurs and/or paleontology. No prerequisite knowledge is needed.

5) Course evaluation criteria:

1. Assessment (in form of MC quiz) after each session

2. Discussion forum for learners to raise questions and exchange idea for each session

3. An exit survey after completion of the course to collect feedback/comments from learners.

6) Pedagogical benefits:

1. Personalise and Flexible Learning Process

Learners have the autonomy to learn at their own pace and choose to skip/repeat any topics.

2. Support Mechanism - Glossary

A pre-class glossary of biological terms are provided in each lesson for learners to familiarise with the terminology and support learners' understanding of the content.

3. Wrap-up Video 

A wrap-up video is provided after each session. This helps learners to summarise the important ideas covered in the session, as well as help them to organise what they have just learnt.

4. Followed-up Exercise

The MC quizzes help to test learners' understanding of the topic. Learners are also allowed to go back to a particular sub-session and watch the video again.

7) Advantages:

It’s free, definitely a great advantage. Learners could also pay to get a certificate.

There is an e-learning blog about this course, in which the learners could view an introduction video of the course, teasers, other learners’ comments, etc., so that the learners could have adequate information to decide whether to take the course.

Subtitles in English, traditional and simplified Chinese are available. Moreover, transcripts of the subtitle (in all languages) are provided so that the learners could copy any important things from the transcripts into their own notes.

Interview with renowned academics, real dinosaur fossil, papers are extensively included in the course. These real resources/examples, together with the animation of dinosaurs and the their ecosystems, could definitely enhance construction of knowledge of the learners.

8) Disadvantages

Freedom comes with a price. As mentioned above, learners might choose to skip a particular topic if they want to. In this case, there is a possibility (though little, I think) that the learners might skip some of the basic or important ideas. The course provider might consider listing some of the topics as “highly recommended” so that the learners could have a reference.

9) Reasons for recommending this course:

It’s interesting, in particular, to those who are interested in zoology (not to mention dinosaur lovers).

Learners do not only learn about dinosaurs in this course. They could also learn some basic ideas about zoology.

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Sharon's e-learning course suggestion:

1)  Course topic, course source & link, learning objectives

Course topic: Python Basics (an asynchronous e-learning course)

Course source & link: https://www.codeschool.com/courses/try-python

Learning objectives: 

• To learn about Python math, variables, strings and conditions 
• To write simple Python codes

2)  Target learners

For beginners who wants to learn about the Python programming language 

3)  Course evaluation criteria

Learners' performance is evaluated based on the followed-up exercises (in the form of MCs, quizzes) in each level

4) Pedagogical benefits of this e-Learning course

1. Scaffolding
   This e-learning course on Python basics is segmented into 3 levels, scaffolding learners to learn step by step, from the easier concepts to the harder ones. There is also a navigation panel showing learners the content outline, allowing learners to check their status in the learning process. 
2. Interactive followed-up exercise
3. After learning a topic, there is an interactive exercises (i.e. a console for learners to type the Python code). Most of the exercises provided are problems, and learners need to apply the learnt knowledge of Python and solve the problem. A hint will be given if the answer is incorrect and learners can keep trying until they answer it correctly. The process helps learners to review their answer and revise until they get the correct answer. 
4. Gamification
5. Gamification is applied this e-learning course. If I have successfully solved the problems in the followed-up exercise, I will be awarded with 250 points. The points can be used and deducted when I need a tip/solution if I find it difficult to solve the problems in the exercises. Also, after completing the course, I will be awarded with a badge and it will be added to my collection. This points and badges system help to engage and motivate learners in the learning process. 

5) Your other reflections about this course

Advantages: 

1. Attractive modern web design
   

   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   The course has a modern web design which I find quite attractive. Together with a clear outline for the course and a navigation panel on the left showing my process, it is very useful for learners to keep track of their progress.
2. Instruction Video is fun to watch
   
   
   At the beginning of the course, there is a video and the narrator sings a song about Python (including the features of Python in the lyrics). It is quite interesting to watch the video and the music is catchy. I think the use of music helps to grab learners’ attention. Moreover, before moving on to the learning content, the video also outlines the benefits of learning Python and it is important to let leaners understand why it is important/beneficial to take the course and learn the knowledge. It sets the expectation of what learners can achieve after completing this e-learning course.
3. Hands-on exercise
   There are hands-on exercise for practice right after each topic. I find them very useful as I can immediately apply what I have just learnt and test my own understanding.
4. Free 
   The course is totally free to enroll. 

Disadvantages: 

1. Currently the instruction language is in English and they only have English and Turkish subtitles. Learners might find it difficult to understand. 
2. This e-learning course is free and if learners want to deepen their understanding in Python, they will need to enroll in a paid course which will cover more advanced topics. 

Effectiveness: 

It is effective as my knowledge and understanding is tested with the followed-up exercise after each topic. The answers will be automatically checked and an error message will pop up if my answer is wrong. There is also a ‘Help Me’ button (lead to re-watch video/see answer/go to discussion section) and ‘use a free hint’ button for learners to click and seek help. 

Reasons for recommending this course:

1. Python is a powerful and easy to learn programming language
2. The course is free, interesting and fun with challenges provided

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Arti's e-learning course suggestion: 

1. Course Topic: Teaching English as a Foreign Language - 120-hour TEFL course with tutor & videos (+ free course)

Course Source: International TEFL and TESOL Training (Where the World is your Classroom) https://www.teflcourse.net/

Link: https://www.teflcourse.net/online-tefl-courses/120-hour-tefl-certification/

Learning Objectives:

To be able to develop a

·       comprehensive understanding to the world of Teaching English as a Foreign Language

·       good working knowledge of the English grammar system

·       variety of useful skills and techniques that will help in the delivery of interesting and well-

        constructed lessons in the classroom

2. Target learners

Anyone aged 17 or above, who is a native English speaker or a fluent speaker of English that aspires to become an educator in teaching English as a foreign language and needs an internationally recognized and accredited qualification.

3.  Course evaluation criteria 

At the end of each unit, the student's understanding of the materials will be assessed before he/she can move on to the next unit. After all the course units have been successfully completed, he/she will proceed to the final task, which is the lesson planning. Once completed, he/she will submit it online for assessment by the course tutors. If successfully completed, he/she will graduate from the course.

4.   Pedagogical benefits of this e-Learning course

Scaffolding of Knowledge (Course Units & Stimulating and Relevant Video Lectures)

The range of topics has been divided into twenty units that are designed to build on the student's knowledge systematically. The areas covered in this course include:

120-hour TEFL Certification Course Units: *

·       Introductory Unit

·       Unit 1: Teachers and Learners

·       Unit 2: Parts of Speech

·       Unit 3: Theories, Methods and Techniques

·       Unit 4: Present Tenses

·       Unit 5: Managing Classes

·       Unit 6: Past Tenses

·       Unit 7: Teaching New Language

·       Unit 8: Future Tenses

·       Unit 9: Lesson Planning

·       Unit 10: Video Lessons

·       Unit 11: Teaching Receptive Skills

·       Unit 12: Teaching Productive Skills

·       Unit 13: Teaching Pronunciation & Phonology

·       Unit 14: Course Books and Lesson Materials

·       Unit 15: Evaluation and Testing

·       Unit 16: Conditionals & Reported Speech

·       Unit 17: Equipment and Teaching Aids

·       Unit 18: Modals, Phrasal Verbs and Passive Voice

·       Unit 19: Teaching Special Groups

·       Unit 20: Troubleshooting

In addition, the tutored version of this course will enable the student to view a series of useful video lectures presented by experienced TEFL trainers. The amalgamation of written materials and videos provides a complete coverage of theory and practice, which will be useful to novice teachers and to those with some teaching experience. 

Tutor Support (Keeps the Learner Engaged)

With this option, a learner will receive assistance throughout the course from experienced tutors. He/she will be able to contact a tutor with a query and the tutor will respond to the query within one working day. The timely responses encourage a learner to stay engaged and committed to completing the online course.

5. Other reflections about this course (e.g. advantages, disadvantages, effectiveness, and reasons for recommending this course….)

Advantages

1. Accessibility

      -  The course materials can be can be studied online or downloaded to your personal computer, tablet or smartphone.

      -  Can be used for learning from anywhere, especially for those who do not have the time or

     proximity to study at a learning center.

2. The learner can work at his/her own pace as the learner is given a 6-month period to study the 

course materials, take the online tests and eventually submit a lesson plan based on all the learning.

3. The learner will have a solid grounding in the fundamentals of teaching English as a 

foreign language.

4. The certificate issued by the institute is globally valid and has its own credibility.

5. Lifetime job support services are provided to assist certificate holders in seeking jobs in any 

part of the world.

Disadvantages

A learner does not get an actual teaching experience besides viewing other TEFL trainers teaching a group of students.

Effectiveness

This course is highly effective in preparing to work in an educational context as it covers:

1. Teaching skills that will be needed in the classroom, including teaching theories and methods, classroom management, lesson planning and student evaluation.

2. The subject of language awareness, which includes the most significant areas of English grammar such as tenses and parts of speech, as well as other areas such as pronunciation.

Reasons for recommending this course

1.The learner receives a TEFL certificate which is globally recognized and accepted.

2. Upon successfully completing this course, a learner has the option to select a free course  

between either ‘Certificate in Teaching Business English (CTBE), or Certificate in Teaching  

English to Young Learners (CTEYL)’

3. At the end of the course learners are provided with access to lifetime support services from 

ITTT, which include; resume writing, how to find TEFL job vacancies, how to effectively apply for TEFL jobs, interview preparation, and free downloadable teaching materials and lesson plans.

Video on the course: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=238&v=BZ1XwWbOoMk

*All information is taken from https://www.teflcourse.net

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Cedric's e-learning course suggestion: 

1) Topic:

A Global History of Architecture

2) Course source & link:

- Francis Ching, Mark Jarzombek and Vikram Prakash, A Global History of Architecture 

   (Wiley, 2010). 

- Mark Jarzombek’s Architecture of First Societies: A Global Perspective (Wiley, 2013).

Course Link:

https://www.edx.org/course/global-history-architecture-mitx-4-605x-0

3) Learning objectives:

• History and context of the important buildings that shaped our culture

• History of technological advances that significantly impacted the development of 

   architecture

• Impacts of certain cultural and religious traditions on architecture

• History of climate and geographical changes that shaped human civilization and 

   its architecture

4) Target learners:

That is an open course for all people who are interested in learning architecture 

5) Course evaluation criteria:

It doesn’t mention the criteria for the evaluation on the website, just tell us the evaluation tools and methods

1 review questions 

2 forum discussion

3 four examinations

4 assessment method: 20% on Lecture Review Questions, and 80% on exams

6) Pedagogical benefits of this e-Learning course:

1.  it includes most of the advantages of e-learning course such as no limitation in time and place to learn, free of charge, permit to download all the learning resources. 

2. Online programs as a tool to learn in distance provide lectures conducting with  outstanding tutor from influential educational institution. In this case, high quality education can reach anywhere in the world with Internet and fulfil the need of education in poor region. This online course provided by a MIT professor from the faulty of architecture. It is hard to find an expert who is major in the architecture of early ancient society to offer an online course concentrate on this topic. 

3.  the use of clear and high resolution 3D geographical image and animation to explain the location and geographical factor of architecture is extremely helpful in architecture learning.  

4.  they designed an interactive google map especially for this course to show the location of the target architectures related to the course including video, photo, summary.

7) Other Reflections about this course :

-  the subtitle is synchronous display to let learner follow easily the explanation of 

   professional terms. 

-  as mentioned above, I am really like the high quality of landscape animation that helps the 

   teaching and learning effectiveness for the education of architecture.

-  the disadvantage is that this course covers only the period until 1600 CE. It doesn’t hit a 

   much more complicated era of Baroque, Neoclassicism and 19th century architecture.    

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Matthew's e-learning course suggestion:

1) Course topic:

Dinosaur Ecosystems

2) Course source & link:

https://www.edx.org/course/dinosaur-ecosystems-kong-long-de-sheng-hkux-dinox

3) Learning objectives:

1. To have basic knowledge of dinosaur biology

2. To understand how paleontologists reconstruct ancient ecosystems

3. To learn about the traits of a Late Cretaceous dinosaur ecosystem

4) Target learners:

Anyone interested in dinosaurs and/or paleontology. No prerequisite knowledge is needed.

5) Course evaluation criteria:

1. Assessment (in form of MC quiz) after each session

2. Discussion forum for learners to raise questions and exchange idea for each session

3. An exit survey after completion of the course to collect feedback/comments from learners.

6) Pedagogical benefits:

As an e-learning course, the learners are able to make their own learning schedule. As each session is divided into sub-session for each topic, the learners are at liberty to choose to skip/repeat some of the topics.

Glossaries are provided for each session of the course. Learners are recommended to take a look at the glossaries to familiarize with the biological terms before watching the videos. Learners could also acquire additional information from the glossaries. This would enhance the entire teaching and learning process.

Learners could view roundup videos after completing each of the session. This could not only could remind learners of the important ideas covered in the session, but also help them to organize what they have just learnt.

The MC quizzes could let the learners know whether the have missed some important concepts in the video. If so, as mentioned, the learners could go back to that particular sub-session and watch the video again.

7) Advantages:

It’s free, definitely a great advantage. Learners could also pay to get a certificate.

There is an e-learning blog about this course, in which the learners could view an introduction video of the course, teasers, other learners’ comments, etc., so that the learners could have adequate information to decide whether to take the course.

Sub-title, in English, traditional and simplified Chinese, is available. Moreover, transcripts of the subtitle (in all language) are provided so that the learners could copy any important things from the transcripts into their own notes.

Interview with renowned academics, real dinosaur fossil, papers are extensively included in the course. These real resources/examples, together with the animation of dinosaurs and the their ecosystems, could definitely enhance construction of knowledge of the learners.

8) Disadvantages

Freedom comes with price. As mentioned above, the learners might choose to skip particular topic if they want to. In this case, there is a possibility (though little, I think) that the learners might skip some of the basic or important ideas. The course provider might consider listing some of the topics as “highly recommended” so that the learners could have a reference.

9) Reasons for recommending this course:

It’s interesting, in particular, to those who are interested in zoology (not to mention the dinosaurs lovers).

Learners do not only learn about dinosaurs in this course. They also could learn some basic ideas about zoology.

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Stella's e-learning course suggestion: 

1) Course Topic: 

Communicate Effectively in a Globalized Workplace

2) Course Source & Link:

https://www.coursera.org/specializations/effective-communication

3) Learning Objectives:

1.     Be able to learn how to build your personal profile and appropriately align yourself in a globalized workplace.

2.     Be able to demonstrate a greater communicative and linguistic competence

3.     Be able to structure and express your ideas in a convincing and persuasive manner in writing.

4.     Be able to analyze factors of motivation among workplace counterparts.

5.     Be able to recognize the impact of culture on factors of motivation.

6.     Be able to critique and craft persuasive verbal communication products (i.e. script of dialogue) for exchanges with work teams and critical stakeholders.

7.     Be able to apply principles of effective PowerPoint slide design with consideration for cultural sensitivity.

8.     Be able to identify and adopt strategies on the use of voice and body language for engaging presentations.

9.     Be able to use and/or collect relevant primary data from people in the workplace through emails, face-to-face chats, Skype discussions and incorporate the data into the handbook/guide as support.

4) Target learners:

This course aims for those who are preparing to enter the workplace.

5) Course Evaluation Criteria:

     -Practice & Quiz (in different sessions)
     -Feedback & Evaluation from other learners engaging in the course
     -Peer & tutor assessment for the final capstone project

6) Pedagogical Benefits:

     -From the form of online course and the usage of ICT-supported technological pedagogy, it is beneficial for learners to arrange their learning effectively.
     -This course also provides lots of resources for learners to learn before and after course, such as videoes,  suggested readings.
     -What's more, the way of peer evaluation and assessment motivate learners to engage in the course. And the capstone project makes people use what they have learned to solve problems in their real life. It is quite problem-solved orientation. 

7) Other Reflection:

      -Advantages: 

      The curriculum of this course is appropriate for learners, and it really focuses on the real-life problems in a workplace for the people preparing to enter the workplace, which is helpful for them to adapt themselves to a new workplace environment. 

  

      -Disadvantages:

      The curriculum needs to pay after the free trial period. 

      And the language use is only English, which is a limitation for other language-used learners who want to learn this course.

      The previous learning effects or evaluations from this course are unknown. It makes people hard to know whether this course is suitable for themselves or not.

      -Reasons for recommending:

      I recommend this course because it is really helpful for people preparing to enter a workplace. Before they enter, they need to know how to communicate with others in a great way, and how to express their ideas in a convincing way, which is conducive to work well with others.