I have several goals in this presentation, all geared towards optimizing the user experience from the researcher, educator, and/or participant point of view. Each item demonstrated is selected for unique interfaces, specialized services, and/or unusual perspectives on processes we did differently in the past.
The first goal is efficiency. New interfaces that allow you to gather information and process it quickly. Participants will learn about sites that promote free exploration as you create search threads on given topics.
Engagement is the second goal. Whether an online class or working on a collaborative assignment outside of the classroom, students want and need interfaces and techniques that will engage them as they plough through content. The presentation demonstrates several methods of collaborating on projects while providing interfaces that promote spontaneous interactions. Some systems help organize a free flow dialog into usable content that can be shaped into the project being submitted for a class.
Another goal is communication. Today's student uses multimedia formats to communicate directly or to gather information from colleagues and resources. Emerging technologies promise to take these processes to higher levels in the upcoming months, not years. Communication methods also provide mediums through which students can present projects in an asynchronous environment.
One more element we want to conquer is the financial aspect of adding programs to accomplish the previous goals. While a few programs with price tags may outshine those in the demonstration, all programs shown are either free or offer limited editions that are free. In a fiscal environment that carefully watches the bottom line, free is a price we are all happy with. It is also a pleasant surprise for the students when they discover free products that are useful in other projects and classes.
A final goal is extension. These products are not intended to be used only in a class or two. They promote effective work environments beyond the classroom and into the workplace. Exposing students and faculty to methods that provide greater flexibility and dynamic approaches to solve problems makes these demonstrations part of a lifelong learning process.
