ASTD-Lincoln - Tech in Training

Flipping the Classroom

Wed, June 06, 2012 4:32 PM | Ranelle Maltas (Administrator)

There is big talk in Higher Ed (besides mobile learning) about the flipped classroom. Essentially, it means you have the students watch/listen to the lecture (learning transfer) outside of class and then have them do the homework (discussion/application) in the class. Since most of the learning comes from this level, it makes sense to have this come in a more facilitated environment to ensure correct application.

How does this apply to Workplace Learning and Performance (WLP)?

Even though you don’t have an entire semester to build on, you can still apply many of the same techniques to WLP. Let’s start by looking at Bloom’s Taxonomy and how you can use technology to assist in flipping your classroom.

Much of the time spent in the classroom is the learning transfer or lecture. This is the Knowledge/Remembering and possibly the Comprehension/Understanding level. As trainers, we know the learning and retention begins in the Application/Applying level. If a learner spends time with the trainer in the first level, and then returns to the job and applies the knowledge in the wrong way, no one is there to assist them in the correct application and the learning doesn’t stick or the wrong learning is applied. If you can have the learner use another method to gain the knowledge, and the trainer help facilitate the comprehension and application, you can ensure better learning.

Level 1: Knowledge/Remembering

There are many ways to you can use technology to push the knowledge to the learner. Some obvious ones are podcasts or videos of the lecture. There are already a ton of videos on TED and TED Ed for a lot of things, but why not create your own podcasts or videos. Not only can they be used for the providing the knowledge prior to training, but can also be an easily accessible reference for after the training.

You can also use a variety of social media for this. You can create and share AuthorStream or SlideShare presentations. Share a Google Doc or SkyDrive document. Have learners explore specified Delicious or Diigo bookmarked items. Conduct a video chat via Skype, Microsoft Lync or Adobe Connect. Get creative and make it interesting. It doesn’t have to be flashy unless you want to. It is the content that is important.

Level 2: Comprehension/Understanding

Some options you used for Level 1 can get you through level two, Comprehension/Understanding, such as the video chat that allows for a two way conversation. If not, you can easily cover this in the face to face time with the learners. If you need to catch up on the Comprehension when you meet, consider a review of the material using Poll Everywhere or another clicker option. Clickers give you the opportunity for a guided review to ensure correct comprehension. Otherwise, you can have the learners do a quiz or survey before arriving using any type of polling software, such as Survey Monkey, or create a quiz using Google Forms.

Level 3: Application/Applying

Here is where the trainer is essential. In the application of knowledge, if it is not applied correctly, the learner will not be able to properly do their job or task. This level is also harder to correct if the wrong behavior is learned. You can provide the correct guidance for application.

Level 4: Analysis/Analysing

Technology to the rescue, again! Here is where you can implement a wiki or discussion board for learners to return to and analyse their performance. Perhaps a quick video or instant message chat can help. Even something as simple as a Facebook page or group where the discussion and sharing can happen. A blog which allows for commenting or a YouTube video does, too, can also help with the analysis.

Level 5: Synthesis/Evaluating & Level 6: Evaluating/Creating

Many of the same tools used before can be used again, but instead of watching YouTube videos or commenting on Blogs or Discussion board, have the learner do the creating. Learners can begin their own threads or pages on wikis and facilitate the discussions there. Have the learner lead their own specialized Facebook group or start and contribute to Delicious or Diigo bookmarks and tags.

ZOOM, ZOOM!!

Mon, April 02, 2012 9:43 AM | Ranelle Maltas (Administrator)

As I have been going to various departments at UNL training on Outlook, there are a couple of tools I never leave home without. I didn't think much of them, but I've gotten almost as many questions about the tools I use as the training I'm providing. So here are my "can't train without" tools.

ZoomIt is screen zoom and annotation tool with a break timer for Windows XP and higher. ZoomIt runs unobtrusively in the system tray and activates with customizable hotkeys to zoom in on an area of the screen, move around while zoomed, and draw on the zoomed image. It’s small enough to run from my flash drive with no installation needed, so I can use it on any computer.

Although it’s called ZoomIt, you’ll notice it shows up in your menu as Sysinternals Screen Magnifier. ZoomIt is incredibly easy to learn. I’ve put together a manual (which consists of one page) you can use.

Uses: I use ZoomIt for drawing boxes and circles around areas of the screen when I talk about them. It also has a dynamic mode where I can click or type on screen while zoomed in. The break timer is also handy as a countdown to when the training will begin or time left before our break is over.

Virtual Magnifying Glass is a free, open source, cross-platform screen magnification tool. It is simple, customizable, and easy-to-use. The program shows a magnifying glass lens that follows the mouse movement. To close the lens, click the left mouse button. It stays in the system tray for launching the lens again. Right-click the Magnifying Glass system tray icon to for various customization options such as the glass size and magnification.

Uses: I use the Magnifying Glass to show buttons and text that are too small to be seen on my screen as is for those people sitting in the back of the room. It’s so easy to use with a simple click on and click off.

Use email 'delayed delivery' to do the work for you after training

Mon, January 30, 2012 10:24 AM | Ranelle Maltas (Administrator)

Have you heard? The University of Nebraska is getting a new email system. We’re moving from Lotus Notes to Microsoft Office 365 (cloud) and Outlook. With all change comes it’s fair share of pains. For me, not all of my calendar entries migrated from the the old system. This means missing appointments and reminders to post to the ASTD-Lincoln Tech Blog. Oops, I do have that fixed now (better late then never). But it got me to thinking about all the ways we can use technology to remind us to do things.

There are a plethora of reminder programs on the market, free and paid. There are applications for your smartphone, services to send you a text or email message, but if you already use an email program with a calendar, chances are it’s already there.

In Lotus Notes, there is the To-do list. In Outlook, there is Tasks. In Gmail, you add reminders when you put something on your calendar. Great tool for reminders, but how does this all apply to training?

In learning more about Outlook, I found a great way to set emails for a delayed delivery. Check out your email system, it may have something similar. Some thoughts I have for using this in my training is to send that Level 2 evaluation out a set time after training. Perhaps I can send “what you learned in training” messages to attendees for several weeks after they attend training. Or messages that give them examples on how to apply what they learned in training to real-life. I can create templates or drafts of this information and then set them to send a specific intervals.

I can’t wait to try some of these things out. I’m already planning how to keep the learners I encounter learning long after they attend a training session. This is another great way to have technology help make my job easier.

Happy training in 2012!

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Happy Holidays!

Fri, December 16, 2011 9:05 AM | Ranelle Maltas (Administrator)

Just like every year, I find myself saying, "it can't be the middle of December already?!" Well, it is and just like every year, I'm behind on my holiday tasks. I did get a few cards in the mail today, but I haven't started on my cooking. I always share homemade goodies with my neighbors and coworkers. I've really got to get on that. I'm just happy I have all my decorating done, including my computer desktop.

With Windows 7, you can use many beautiful themes to decorate your desktop. You can even save your own wallpapers and settings as a theme. I have some wonderful holiday photos rotating in the background, but miss the blinking lights of a tree. Thanks to a friend, I now have a variety of blinking trees for my desktop. So, here's my gift to you, your very own desktop tree. http://www.get-xmas.com/

Remember to not get caught up in all the planning and preparing that you forget to enjoy the company of your family and friends.

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ePortfolios for the Workplace Learning and Performance Professional

Tue, November 01, 2011 5:18 PM | Ranelle Maltas (Administrator)

Everything these days seems to start with the letter "e." There are eBooks, ePubs, e-mail and our topic today, ePortfolios. Of course we all know the "e" stands for electronic. So you can understand the concept of an eBook or e-mail. But, not everyone is familiar with portfolios. A portfolio is “a selection of a student's work (as papers and tests) compiled over a period of time and used for assessing performance or progress” according to Merriam-Webster Dictionary. Artists also use portfolios for their works of art (photos, drawings, writings, etc.). Without a lot of work experience, students use them to provide evidence to an employer about their skills, abilities and extra curricula activities. So why would a trainer need a portfolio, and what would be a part of it?

Why have a portfolio?

It's difficult to explain your comprehensive training program in a few bullet points on a one-page résumé. A portfolio documents your planning process, training, follow-up, and evaluation process. It can showcase presentations, result data and other achievements.

Throughout your career as a workplace learning and performance professional, you have many opportunities to present and train on a variety of topics. You can include podcasts, webinar recordings, presentations and other media so potential clients and employers can get a feel for how your present and teach.

What should your portfolio say about YOU?

You are enthusiastic about your profession and continually learn and improve.

You reflect and learn from achievements and mistakes.
You provide your employer, clients, and learners with the highest-level quality education, training, and development.

You keep informed of pertinent knowledge and competence in the workplace learning and performance field.

You fairly and accurately represent your credentials, qualifications, experience, and ability.

Designing Your Portfolio

Chose a program. Blogging sites can much of what you need. If you want good design with quick startup, try Blogger. If you want more control, WordPress and Tumblr allow for more customization. If you prefer to set your portfolio to be more like a website, Google Sites is relatively easy to learn.

Make navigation simple; include a contents section with links to the various sections/pages. Use keywords or tags to help categorize entries. Be logical in your layout; consider the impression you will be giving about the way you potentially think and work.

Include an "About Me" section that tells a little more about your personal side. This is also a place to include a brief summary of employment and positions. You can also highlight awards and other accomplishments. Mention conferences and continuing education, such as certificates and certifications. ASTD meetings and other speaking engagements also speak well for you as a workplace learning and performance professional.

If you're not sure where to start, take a look at the ASTD Competency Model. This should give you ideas of what to focus on and what to include.

In summary, everybody's ePorfolio will be different, and it should reflect your growth and personality in your profession. It makes for a great reference for potential clients and employers. Good luck!

Filesharing in the Cloud

Tue, October 04, 2011 11:30 AM | Ranelle Maltas (Administrator)

Have you run into a problem sharing large files with others? I hate to print extra handouts and waste paper, but some files are too big to email. If you've had this problem, you should try a filesharing site. Some are free with limitations, some are a pay service. But is you're looking for a place to share a large file with others, start with the ones here: http://delicious.com/astdlincoln/filesharing.

Personally, I've used DocStoc and Wikisend. I'm a huge fan of Dropbox because of it's options. If you have used a filesharing site and would like to share it with others, let me know and I'll add it to the list of resources.

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Tablets for mLearning

Fri, July 01, 2011 9:14 AM | Ranelle Maltas (Administrator)

Do you have an iPad? If not, how about a XOOM, Galaxy Tab, or Playbook? They are all tablets, and can do much of the same things. I have an iPad for work and a smartphone (Droid X) for myself. I can usually find the same or comparatively the same apps for either.

If you know your users all have access to a smartphone or tablet, you can use apps. You can find them in the app store for the iOS, Android, and Amazon Markets. Some are free, others will cost. By the time you read this, a hundred more will be released and I just can’t keep up on them all. Just know that a study has been done at a Higher Ed institution and they found there is no one “killer” app for learning. Each instructor found different apps that worked best for them. My suggestion is try it, and if you like it, keep it. Otherwise, dump it. Ask others in your profession what they recommend. Ask your PLN on Twitter. Post a question in you LinkedIn groups.

If you’re still reading, here are some iPad apps others have recommended. I’m sure some if not most are also available for the other tablets and smart phones as well.

eClicker is a Personal Response System that allows you to use ‘hinge’ questions to asses understanding.
Dragon Dictation allows iPad users to quickly and easily convert speech into editable text that can be copied or sent via e-mail. Great for learners who prefer talking over writing.
Mobile Mouse allows you to control your IWB / projected computer from across the room.
With the Remote Desktop App you are remotely accessing your computer and you your iPad is acting like a touchscreen monitor. You can control the projected screen fully and see it on your iPad.
Use SmartNote to send learners outlines or worksheet activities. They can then 'write' on them and share them back with you for assessment or send them to the web for pickup at home. Using this app, learners can also audio record ideas or instructions for later use. SmartNote allows users to insert images, browser views, and tons of widgets in a personalized notebook.
Use Idea Sketch (free, simple and pleasing to use) to create mind maps. SlingNote and Popplet work great for this, too.
Evernote allows you to keep notes and clippings in an online account that you can access anywhere.
Use i-Prompt or the "On Air" app to gain fluency when presenting (teleprompter).
DropBox account will automatically sync files wirelessly from a laptop to a set of iPads using the same account. You could set up a folder in DropBox for each learner.
SoundNote will allow you type notes as well as adding handwritten via your finger or stylus.
Whiteboard Free allows you to share iPad screens across a number of iPads. Once you open the app it asks if you want to 'share' your screen. Once you allow this it means that when one person write on their iPad it will be seen on the other iPads that it has been shared with.

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Your Phone Doesn’t have to be Smart to Learn

Wed, June 01, 2011 9:14 AM | Ranelle Maltas (Administrator)

These days when you think of mobile, you think of mobile phones. Not every phone has to be a smartphone with a data plan to use in learning. If your learners do all have a smartphone, there are a ton of apps you can get or even build. They make for great just-in-time learning. But if not, as long as they have texting, you can still have them learn on the go.

My first and favorite example is Twitter. You may not think this is a great learning tool, but I have built a great Professional Learning Network (PLN) and we tweet regularly. I tend to follow other people in Higher Education, Instructional Technology, and Workplace Learning and Performance. I also follow a number of K-12 teachers as I know their students will soon be my students.

You may be thinking that this is great for me to learn, but how can I use it for others? Specify a hashtag (ask me at the next meeting and I’ll explain) and have learners follow it. You can post a daily tip or learning nugget. Have the learners do the same and they can learn from each other. Have them tweet a question and some one will respond.

If you don’t think this will work, I have a great example. Check out @UNL_CropWatch sometime. You may think farmers are not that techno-saavy, but they all have mobile phones and text to stay in touch with the family and home when out in the field (in my day, we used a CB Radio). If a farmer comes across an odd bug or problem with a plant, they take a photo and tweet it to @UNL_CropWatch. An expert (at UNL or perhaps another farmer) will see it and can respond. It used to be they took the bug or plant to the “not-so-local” extension office and it may be days before they get a response. Now, it’s almost instant. How’s that for learning on the job?

Next up, Short Messaging Service (SMS). http://www.swaggle.mobi is a simple group text messaging service for cellphones. Send one text message to Swaggle, and and they will send it to everyone in your group. When someone responds, that goes to everyone in the group, as well. Use it to send tips, tricks, learning nuggets, reminders, or ask a question. A few others include http://www.cellsea.com/media/smsindex.htm, http://www.buzz411.org/ or use Google SMS Channels at http://labs.google.co.in/smschannels/. Some are free, some will cost you. Either way, be sure your users are aware of text messaging costs for this service.

As far as the apps available for smart phones, I’ll cover those next month when I talk about tablets (iPads, Xoom, Playbook, etc.) since there is so much cross-over.

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mLearning, Why Do I Care about being Mobile?

Mon, May 02, 2011 9:13 AM | Ranelle Maltas (Administrator)

Mobile learning (mLearning) can mean many things to many different people. The best description I’ve found is Any sort of learning that happens when the learner is not at a fixed, predetermined location. The reason I like this description is that there is no mention of technology. Technology is a tool to help you accomplish something but it is not the only thing that will work. I know, this is an article about technology. Let me explain.

As a teacher, my goal is to either impart knowledge or skill to my learners. (Again, no mention of technology.) The reason I’m so fond of mLearning is that the learning can take place anytime, anywhere--and that doesn’t mean it has to be in a classroom. If my learners can continue learning beyond the classroom walls, I know I’ve gotten them higher up on the Bloom’s taxonomy to where they are applying, analyzing, evaluating and creating. I prefer to do this the most efficient way, and for me, that does include technology.

In the next several months, I’ll take you through some of my favorite tools and talk about mLearning with smartphones, tablets, webinars and podcasts and how you can blend them into your teaching. (Darn, another term: blended learning.) Yes, it all fits together and if you keep reading in the months ahead, you’ll find out how.

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Virtual Business Cards for Your Business

Fri, April 01, 2011 9:12 AM | Ranelle Maltas (Administrator)

If you are a regular reader of this column, you’ll know that I’m cheap. I like free and hate to pay for things. Many things I find I try the free version and if I get a lot of benefit, I’ll go ahead and pay for the full version. I just did that today with two Android apps for my phone. But in other cases, the free version is just good enough.

This brings me to my story. I do computer training on the side. My full-time job doesn’t leave room for lots of extra work, so I don’t put a lot of effort into selling my part-time work. Since I don’t make a lot of money, I don’t want to invest much, either. But when people want to learn more about me or my services, I don’t have a website to direct people to. To help give myself an online presence in the absence of a website, I found a virtual business card I can attach to my social networking sites and email signatures. I use BusinesCard2.com, but it’s not the only online business card option out there. However, I found it looks really good and the free version offers a lot.

On this card, you can have a picture, contact information, your bio, what you offer, links to social networking, videos and files. I haven’t taken the time to make an introductory video, but I plan to someday. It would be nice for people to “meet” me before they really do. I also thought about making videos of customer testimony to link to as well. That would make for a nice sell of me and my services.

If you want to check out my card, go ahead. You can find it at http://ctrlaltgeek.businesscard2.com. I also have it posted on my ASTD-Lincoln profile page. I hope to see yours there soon, too!

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