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Welcome!

EDUC 232/505 is an introduction to basic theories and principles of instructional technology.  Five main area of focus are structured within this course including: research, theory and history of instructional technology; visual literacy; evaluation of instructional technology; the relationship of instructional technology to learning styles; and instructional computing experiences.  To assist in developing a link between theory and practices, students will have hands-on experience with instructional technology and will employ problem solving techniques appropriate to the media.

Course Description
This course offers an introduction to theories and principles of instructional technology, focusing specifically upon:

• Research, theory and history of instructional technology
• Visual Literacy
• Evaluation of instructional technology (including information on design criteria)
• The relationship of instructional technology to learning styles
• Instructional computing experiences

Assignments consist of individual work in-class and on-line with presentations being an integral part of regular class practices. To assist in developing a link between theory and practice, you will also have hands-on experience with various forms of instructional technology including web page design, educational and production software, and current trends viable for the classroom. 

Course Objectives
After this course, you will be able demonstrate your knowledge, skills, and dispositions regarding the following issues in instructional technology.

• Basic terminology and concepts related to instructional technology and their use in education
• Comprehensive scope of the realm of instructional technology  
• Basic theories underlying the design and use of instructional technology  
• The potential and the limitations of instructional technology as tools for teachers  
• Criteria for evaluating instructional technology  
• The relevant Ashland University software and information technology policies

Skills to be Developed
The following skills will be addressed and developed throughout the semester.  As stated within the course description, class activities and homework assignments will provide building blocks to allow you to:

• Demonstrate skills in using various types of instructional technology to create instructional materials
• Identify appropriate instructional technology to meet the different learning styles of students  
• Evaluate various types of instructional technology  
• Plan and produce instructional technology designed for given objectives in teaching field content areas  

Disposition Statements
As defined by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher education (NCATE) glossary, dispositions are :

" The values, commitments, and professional ethics that influence behaviors toward students, families, colleagues, and communities and affect student learning, motivation, and development as well as the educator’s own professional growth. Dispositions are guided by beliefs and attitudes related to values such as caring, fairness, honesty, responsibility, and social justice. For example, they might include a belief that all students can learn, a vision of high and challenging standards, or a commitment to a safe and supportive learning environment."

The following disposition statements are in place for EDUC 232/505:

• Value various forms of instructional technology as professional tools for use in education
• Appreciate the instructional variety of instructional technology in meeting the various learning needs and learning styles of students
• Feel comfortable in using relevant instructional technology  
• Appreciate the ever-changing possibilities of instructional technology  
• Value the theory which provides a basis for the practical applications of instructional technology  

Required Course Materials
There is no text required for this course.  

• Class web site and blog will be used for supplementary information.
• Readings will be assigned throughout the semester and will be accessed via AU Library Electronic Reserves:
   
  • Click here for more information concerning ERes.
  • Some reserve articles may require authentication off campus before proceeding.
    
  • Articles placed on the reserve may require Acrobat Reader for viewing.

• Books are on reserve; view a complete listing of available titles here .  
• Students are required to purchase a USB Storage device, flash or pen drive, at least 64 Mb in size, 128 Mb is recommended.
   
  • USB drives may be purchased at various retail stores (K-Mart, Wal-Mart, Target, Staples), computer stores (Best Buy, Circuit City), online (Amazon, Ebay), and at the AU book store.
  • Expect to pay $20 to $25 for 128 Mb, more for larger storage configurations.
  • Drives may be used in 32 Miller (class), Patterson computer labs (Mac and PC), the library, and with most campus lap tops. 
  • Newer computers have USB ports accessible at the front of the CPU, while older models will require you to pull out the CPU to find the port.  
  • Pen drives vary in size and shape. If your drive includes an extension USB cord, be sure to bring it to campus.
  • Computers using Windows 98 may have to download drivers for the storage devices to work properly.  AU campus computers are Windows XP.

• Final electronic portfolio assignment requires a CD-R for completion.

Emailing Class Assignments
Grading rubrics may list emailing the assignment as a requirement.  It is not required that an AU email account be used, however proper procedure must be followed.  When saved, each file or document should include your last name. Be sure to use the correct file type when saving (word = *.doc, power point = *.ppt, excel = *.xls). Address each email to dschreck@ashland.edu with the subject line "assignment number ___." Attach the file, carbon copy the email to yourself for reference, provide a short note in the body of the email message, sign the email (your name in the body of the message or a signature file), and send it. Email must arrive prior to the beginning of class.

Grading
The course grading is as follows:  A = 93 - 100; B = 89 - 92; C = 81 - 88; D = 73 - 80; and D = 72 and below. More information about grading percentages and how they apply to individual assignments is available on the class assignment page. EDUC 232/505 is a four credit course, workload and grading scale reflect this level.

Class Participation and Attendance
You are required to be in class, arrive on time, participate in discussions when applicable, and turn in prepared assignments as directed. More than two classes missed will adversely affect class participation points and your grade.  Guidelines include the following:

• Chatting and web surfing during class is not acceptable.  
• It is the students responsibility to make up any work missed.
• Generally speaking, absence is not a reason for assignments being turned in late.
• Leaving class before it's completion is missing class.
• Class participation grade will include blog posts and constructive comments on article responses.
• Cell phone use is prohibited during class time.
• Common courtesy is expected.
• Students should exhibit behavior befitting pre-service teacher education candidates.

Academic Policy
This course follows the Ashland University Academic Integrity Policy which defines academic integrity and responsibilities for each student as the necessity "to complete the assignments/ tests/experiences of each class on one's own. To present no work completed by others as one's own."  Within this document, plagiarism and cheating are clearly defined. Be sure you are familiar with the repercussions if academic integrity is compromised.

Information Technology Acceptable Use Policy
This course is an introduction to the principles of instructional technology. As such, you should be familiar with Ashland University's Information Technology Acceptable Use Policy. Additional policies are in place for software, laptop computers, web site guidelines, and the web site privacy.

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Diane Schrecker, MLIS
URL: http://www.ashland.edu/~dschreck/educ232/232.html
email: dschreck@ashland.edu
Updated: 1-9-06