Real vs. Virtual - Distance learning courses provide opportunities to use emerging communication technologies to build an online learning community. Just as in this class, I think the communication is very real, even if technically labeled as virtual. In some sense, having a written log of communication activities (evidence) even makes it more real.
We are also recognizing that the technology tools we use in our everyday lives – PDAs, ipods and cell phones can be leveraged to extend the classroom. Recently, I was able to experience the pervasive communication environment while visiting the Long Beach Aquarium. One of the exhibits had a sign to use your cell phone to dial a number for more information about the exhibit. I thought this was an interesting merge of written information (the exhibit signage), physical information (the fish) and virtual information (what I was listening to on my cell phone). If I had thought to use the internet o my phone, I could’ve also viewed the aquarium’s web page for more information!
1 comment:
It's so true that having a written form of communication can be used as evidence that ultimately makes virtual communication seem a bit more real. The only reason why I continuously choose to take courses online is because I am still able to succeed within courses via internet. I personally feel as though I get just as much attention as I would within a classroom at SJSU (minus the eye contact). I like how you brought up the idea of how we can now use cell phones to access more information in certain places like your example of the aquarium. It goes to prove just how advanced technology is and the different methods that it can assist us in our daily lives.
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