UFV Teaching and Learning Blog

We at ETS have heard Blackboard being described as everything from essential to a hindrance.  In your opinion, what one word would best describe Blackboard and why?

Fundamentally, technology is here to connect ideas to people, people to ideas and help turn ideas into reality.  Students have ideas and when given the freedom to choose their own medium, their engagement increases leading to better outcomes. In today’s classroom, educators are now more likely to be required to act as guides and facilitators giving … Read more

A 47 year-old student came in to ETS. He is being re-skilled through WorkSafeBC and is new to UFV.  He just learned how to use email in his ENGL 090 class. He said he couldn’t believe he lived without it.  What transferable technologies might students take away from your courses?

Many teachers have said they don’t want to use too much technology in their course for fear of overwhelming their students and frustrating them. What is your idea of “too much” technology?

Instructors have often said that students come to UFV campus because they like the sense of community that exists. Their students say they prefer it to online learning. How have you created a “sense of community” or have been in a learning community online?

Instructors have mentioned more of their students are accessing their courses on mobile devices but the instructors are unsure if their courses are mobile friendly. Name one aspect of a mobile friendly course in Blackboard, or one aspect that isn’t mobile friendly.

Instructors have mentioned that using older technologies, such as overheads, still prove effective in the classroom and the complexity of newer technologies, like smartboards, can interfere with he learning process.  How do you incorporate newer technologies when teaching?  Join the conversation.

Classrooms can be set up in pods. Does this layout change the dynamics in facilitating and learning in the classroom? How? Share your views with your peers in this blog

Instructors have been asked by students, “Why do you use so many YouTube and third party videos in your course, can’t you do your own?”  This may imply that an instructor’s expertise on the subject is being challenged.  How would you respond to the student?  What’s your approach to using third party videos in your … Read more