UNIT 6: Checklist For Remote Learning Tools

When choosing the remote learning tools to use, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind. While some will be specific to the class being taught (such as what topics you need the resource collections to cover), many are general points worth taking into account.

6.1. Security.

Anything being used in online learning needs to be secure. This is especially important where children are involved. Check for appropriate security certificates, and whether they talk about how they use any data gathered. Whilst this applies to all learning tools, it’s especially relevant to video conferencing solutions.

Covid-19 led many organisations to use Zoom, where Zoom bombing (unauthorised users accessing a call and being disruptive, sometimes sharing disturbing material) has been a real problem. Instead, you’ll want to use platforms with stricter security to avoid putting students at risk.

6.2. Ease of use and accessibility.

Not everyone who signs up for online learning has the same level of technological ability. This is especially prevalent in the pandemic, with young children being taught online. Any tools should be easy to use and have good accessibility options (i.e., colourblind mode, adjustable font size). It’s also worth ensuring they’re easy for tutors to use, too. There’s nothing worse than a lecture in which the lecturer keeps stopping and starting because of tech issues.

6.3. Availability of tutorials.

This is similar to the above point. Any learning tool you use should have tutorials – whether they’re official ones on their website, or easy to find through google. While unofficial ones can be a good alternative, it’s worth watching them make sure the content is suitable. Having tutorials available means, you can use slightly more complex tools, without worrying about leaving students or staff behind.

6.4. Appropriate topic coverage.

The best-designed tools may not always have the content needed for your course. This is especially relevant for resource collections and interactive activities, though it applies to other categories too. After all, there’s no use investing in a subscription to a language learning platform if it doesn’t include the language you’re teaching.

6.5. Cost.

Finally, there’s the cost. Many tools provide versions free to schools and universities to help them adapt to the ‘new normal’, but this isn’t guaranteed to last. It’s worth comparing the price of the tools you want, and weighing them up against the budget before committing – even if one is free at the moment. You don’t want to start a term with one tool and have to transfer to another because of a price increase.

6.6. Practical Assessment

Take this into consideration:

• What is the cost of the tool you decided to use?
• Do you have enough tutorials for mastering the tool?
• Is it secure enough for you and your students to use it online?
• Do you have appropriate topic coverage?

Take this in account while planning online tools!

Conclusion

Online learning may be a relatively new form of distance learning, but it’s more than proven how useful it can be. Whether you’re studying this way temporarily due to Covid-19 or your preferred method, these tools can help ensure you have a high-quality experience – whether it’s a full degree or a short course.

Usefull Tools

https://moodle.academy/

https://moodle.com/

https://www.efrontlearning.com/

https://download.moodle.org/docs/en/moodle_1.4.3_for_teachers_and_trainers.pdf

https://www.ringcentral.com/gb/en/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-online-learning-tools/