EdTech: Dealing with technical problems with digital technology
This module looks at ways to deal with technical problems that emerge while teaching.
Technical problems can happen at awkward moments in a session. There are some quick and simple ways to try to resolve them, but if these don’t work then teachers can turn the situation into pedagogical advantage.
Aim
How to deal with technical problems with digital technology
Objective
After completing the module, you will be able to:
- Adopt systematic approaches to resolving technical problems
- Recognise the pedagogical opportunities of technology problems
Digital Teaching Professional Framework
This module covers the EdTech component - C2 : Supporting study skills
- Identify and solve technical problems when operating devices and using digital environments.
- Adjust and customise digital environments to personal needs.
- Identify, evaluate, select and use digital technologies and possible technological responses to solve a given task or problem.
- Use digital technologies in innovative ways to create learning.
- Understand where a learner's digital competence needs to be improved or updated.
- Support others in their digital competence development.
- Seek opportunities for selfdevelopment and to keep up-to-date with digital evolution.
This module inspired the following reflection
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Feedback about this module
Average feedback ratings
Taking note of your feedback
We greatly appreciate the time taken to provide us with feedback on each module. We regularly review all the feedback provided and use it to inform the development of new modules. Subject to funds being available and other constraints, we will amend existing modules where feedback shows this is required.Feedback from other members about this module
Involve learners in the process you are taking to overcome technical problems in a clam way. To model any possible issues students occur.
Good course
I thought this was a really useful module.
Some good points. Love that one of the articles in the resources gives the 404 message!
Getting others involved in IT/Digital issues. I feel this is something I do well and will often ask others if they have been able to access something when others haven't i.e. connecting to the internet
I hadn't considered fear of technical failure before as one of the barriers to digital adoption, and will consider this when coaching and mentoring staff in future
Informative.
Some useful advisory resources.
Very good module , many thanks.
Good ideas provided - Keep Calm and Carry ON
A very useful module on dealing with technology issues.
The more digital equipment and different software apps a teacher uses multiplies many fold the chances of something going wrong. The learners also in remote virtual sessions use many different devices, laptops, iPhones, iPads etc and can have very varied internet speeds and bandwidths that can cause constant interruptions. If the quick fix doesn't solve the problem then move forward with the learners teaching instead of wasting time trying to fix something that might never be fixed without professional help.
Basic module. However good advice if you are working with a group who are very digital and tech illiterate
I didn't feel that it actually taught you anything, surely this is the process everyone would instinctively do?
Useful for individuals who do fear using technology, but less appropriate for individuals who are confident and can rectify issues. It does highlight the opportunity to use it as a learning tool, which is good.
One of the key things to remember when problem solving is not to panic, i like the step by step process of problem solving that was suggested.
Very basic content- would be helpful for someone brand new to teaching with technology. Could have taken this further as there are many online issues that can occur- planning and practice help and always having a plan B
Simple but effective reminder not to panic but use the problem as a learning tool and involve the students.
I found useful the reminded that if the technical issue is not solved we end up with a teaching issue "Involving learners in the process of solution is excellent pedagogical practice."
A useful reminder to take practical steps to engaging learners in problem solving; to seeing comparisons to problem solving in their own curriculum area.
I do not wish to provide feedback at this time. Thank you very much indeed.
Brilliant. If it doesn't work switch it off and back on. Ha Ha Ha am I in the real world here?
Very useful unit
It's surprising how many issues these steps will solve. A particular issue with online learning sits around audio settings - maybe it needs a whole module on that!
Very basic advice here, but the vast majority of my students already know these solutions from their personal experience.
No help when delivering an online lesson.
Simple and good ideas
helpful
Great module. What I know already about dealing with tech issues in the class and what has been re-enforced with this module - 1. have a simple problem solving procedure e.g. reboot 2. Ask the learners for problem solving answers to the tech issue 3. Have an alternative way of teaching, even if you have to use no tech to continue teaching. As I completed this module I was notified that I have received my digital teacher badge. Great!
some very wise advice
Rather than panicking, involving the students in a problem is always a good idea (as long as you have SOME idea of what to do). Its an idea that can be applied to other situations, such as when a demonstration goes wrong - what steps ahve I done incorrectly or what needs adjusting and why?
Good
Poor.
Really useful module!
Over 30 years later and we're being taught to turn if off and on again
Rather basic and common knowledge
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