AHE 503: Learning with Technology in Higher Education

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I had a successful technological learning experience. At that time, I was taking a class that was crucial for my graduation, so transitioning to online learning was initially overwhelming. However, as the professors started using Zoom for classes and meetings, I became more comfortable with the online learning environment. These experiences not only helped me successfully complete my master's degree but also prepared me for my current pursuit of a doctorate.

I discovered that I enjoy the structure of an in-person classroom. It allows me to focus on specific tasks and engage in more meaningful discussions with my peers and mentors. Although I miss the accountability and camaraderie with colleagues, there are aspects of online courses that I appreciate. For instance, having access to course materials upfront allows me to manage my workload better and avoid procrastination. Additionally, online classes provide opportunities for technological development, as new tools are constantly being developed to enhance distance education and communication.

I believe that online courses are a great option for graduate students. They offer flexibility in terms of balancing work and family responsibilities, while also providing unique educational experiences that may not be available in one's immediate geographical location. However, one challenge I anticipate this semester is creating meaningful connections with my classmates. While discussion boards facilitate communication, it can be difficult to continue a discussion beyond the initial response post. This is where synchronous courses, which encourage real-time dialogue, can be valuable.

I scored in the 95+ range on readiness assessments! Growing up with early exposure to technology and a solid understanding of internet usage, I feel well-equipped for success in online classes. Throughout my childhood, I balanced outdoor activities and socialization with daily interactions with my iPod, Facebook, and educational websites. This early exposure taught me how to effectively use these tools while still engaging in real-life experiences. To reach a perfect score of 100%, I plan to continue learning new skills and software to stay current with technological advancements. While I already use the internet for basic searches and functions, I could benefit from utilizing online research platforms and libraries more frequently. Additionally, I believe my proximity to campus, as I work on-site, may have contributed to the slight decrease in my score.

Having used both Learning Management System (LMS) and Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) platforms regularly, I was fascinated by the distinctions between the two. Prior to engaging with the readings in this module, I had not fully comprehended the unique features and capabilities that each platform provides.

I find using online resources relatively easy due to my exposure to digital sources throughout my education. From grade school to higher education, professors have consistently incorporated digital platforms into their courses. Growing up in the digital era has given me confidence in my ability to navigate and utilize online platforms effectively.

It wasn't until graduate school that I truly realized the depth and breadth of online resources, especially through the University. As a student, I have access to numerous databases and experts who can assist me with research projects. However, one challenge that persists, and may become more problematic in the online space, is the issue of reliability. With the abundance of information available online, it can be difficult to discern what is fact versus opinion. Search engines often become saturated with irrelevant information as more people publish content online. To navigate online resources effectively, I always make sure to use academically grounded search engines and apply filters to ensure that my sources are peer-reviewed and credible.

Google and other search engines have become incredibly powerful tools for finding information. However, their true potential is unlocked when users learn how to search using the search engines' own reasoning capabilities.

By understanding how search engines work and the algorithms they use to rank and display search results, users can improve the effectiveness and efficiency of their searches. Instead of simply entering keywords and hoping for the best, users can employ advanced search techniques to narrow down their results and find exactly what they're looking for.

For example, search engines like Google have features such as Boolean operators, which allow users to combine or exclude specific keywords in their search queries. This can help refine search results and eliminate irrelevant information.

Additionally, search engines often provide advanced search options that allow users to filter results based on criteria such as date, location, language, and file type. By utilizing these options, users can further tailor their search results to meet their specific needs.

Furthermore, search engines are constantly evolving and improving their algorithms to provide more accurate and relevant results. This means that users need to stay updated on the latest search engine features and techniques in order to make the most of their searches.

In summary, while search engines are powerful tools on their own, users can enhance their search capabilities by understanding and utilizing the reasoning capabilities built into these platforms. By learning advanced search techniques and staying updated on search engine features, users can become more efficient and effective in finding the information they need.

During my search for literature on the intersection of social media and higher education, I came across several intriguing topics. Specifically, I was drawn to the relationship between social media habits and academic performance, as well as the impact of social media influencers on the college decision-making process for high school students. While my research ultimately focused on the impact of online learning platforms on student engagement and academic performance, I aspire to become a leader in the field of influencing as I pursue my degree.