Module 3: What I have learned

As an online teacher, I have always felt as though I am fairly knowledgeable about the latest technology. My perspective changed a bit after reading "The Perfect E-Storm" by Dr. Curtis J. Bonk. I was familiar with several of the advances mentioned within the article. In fact, the ones I am familiar with, LMS (Learning Management Systems), E-books, Hand-held devices, Online gradebooks, Online Surveys and Live e-learning, don't seem very new to me. The mentioning of these technologies made the article seem a bit out dated. And I guess it actually is (written in 2003?). But the article did introduce me to things I am not familiar with. Digital Libraries really peaked my interest. I think this would be a great tool to use in my courses.
What the article made me realize is that technology is always changing. Bonk states, "It can be overwhelming for a professor to hear about a new technology that should be incorporated when she has already extensively experimented with a number of educational technologies.” New advances are made daily, and it becomes very difficult for instructors to keep up with each one. There is also a amount of training that must be provide so the technology is implemented properly. When I taught in a f2f classroom our English department received a SmartBoard. The Smartboard sat unused for 2 years because no one had the time to be trained how to use it correctly. If institutions of learning are going to expect their instructors to be knowledgeable of the latest and greatest technology, then they must provide adequate training and support.