So how does one create Plan B, Plan C..........Plan Z when it comes to technology and its implementation. I think what happened today with the online class is a good example of a combination of things that can go wrong in a technology environment and worthy of exploring.
There were several issues that contributed to the thwarted online class today integrating new technology: Power failure, computer problems, phone issues and human error. Though not necessarily in this order, let's take them one by one.
1. Power failure - not a lot one can do about this so just be aware of its possibility and trouble shooting in its aftermath.
2. Computer problems - in trying to override taking the time to reboot from a previous problem earlier in the day my dear computer crashed - some ways this can be avoided - system clean ups are a recommended course of action on a regular basis - though the crash was an unexpected occurence stemming from #1.
3. Phone issues - related to #1 too.
4. Human error - after reviewing the WebEx protocol I realized that in trying to correct the system freezing, I inadvertenly knocked us out of the virtual space not once but twice...
At the end of the day, I continually realize that like other relationship, the one with technology has its ups and downs and above all a challenging but satisfying learning curve.
We will try it again with greater success I'm sure. If you are ready to try again, let's look at dates to reschedule this online experience once again - when we are in class together on March 26.
Catherine
1 comment:
Technology is a wonderful thing... when it works!
And when it doesn't work, it is so incredibly frustrating.
I think you did the best you could do under the circumstances. There's downsides to teaching online, and there's downsides to teaching in person. The key is to understand where problems may occur, have your plan B/C/D, and have a little patience.
And make regular backups!!!!!
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