Designated Learner

The TLT Group has been experimenting with real time learning using a designated learner. The context for our experimentation is Adobe Connect web conferencing. The content is an online application, in this case Google Forms.  A designated learner learns "in front" of others and serves as the voice of the learner for the other participants. 

These are the questions we are addressing through our experimentation in this area:

• How can we make these "TRAINING"  sessions more useful to YOU and your colleagues?
• For which conditions, context would this new approach be especially helpful?  Not helpful?
• What should we try in this way next?

Gloria Hofer, Instructional Technology Resource Specialist, Santa Clara University, needs to be recognized for her bravery. Her expertise, patience and positive persistence during the session was a model in and of itself.

Here are the lessons we've learned so far:

• PREREQUISITE INFORMATION - Include a link to the prerequisite information in the workshop announcement such as: background information or set-up information.  
• In the case of our topic on Google forms that would include: establishing a Google Account and accessing Google Drive. We also wanted participants to open a second window on their computer and then be able to size the Adobe Connect window and the new window so they could be viewed side by side.  This information could have been provided as a screen cast.
• Include a handout with the steps of the process.
• BRIEFEST POSSIBLE ORIENTATION:
• Very very brief recap from the pre-session info
• How to make the Adobe presentation window full-screen and back to normal view. Chat is in normal view.
• How to signal the presenter using emoticons: raise hand, slow down, etc.
• Give the participants some options on how they might want to participate:
• resize the Adobe window and a second browser so they can see the demonstration at the same time as they follow along
• Toggle between the Adobe room and their browser as they listen and follow the instructions.
• Use two computers or an iPad and a computer.
• Use two monitors.
• PART 2, DEMONSTRATION: Designated Learner is guided to RAPIDLY  produce something to completion - if very rudimentary
• PART 3: instructor goes through more features  and responds to questions
• Figure out how to manage the windows in Adobe in advance. This may vary based on the content and instructor preference.
• NOTE: The variations between how things look if you are using a Mac versus if you are using a PC need to be taken into consideration.
• How much should the designated learner and the expert communicate before the session.  Someone suggested that the questions from the designated learner be scripted to help move the content along.  On the other hand, the designated learner and expert would have no contact and the reactions and questions from the designated learner would be spontaneous.
• During the demonstration, when the instructor is sharing their screen,use full screen.  Need a way for presenter to be able to see chat or hear to monitor what's going on.  Check this out.
• Be careful about allowing unanticipated questions.

Our plan is to apply these lessons to a series of Member Exchange Workshops related to Social Media/Networking Tools/Resources. planned for January 9, 23 and Feb 13th. This link will take you to the registration page

Claire Dailey