It is interesting to see how Salmon’s (2002) E-tivities play in the FIT course. In deed some learners are experiencing the access and motivation stage. There is interplay between participants and technical access and skills. Even though some students feel they are good at using computers, the online learning experience seems quite new and challenging. Some have commented on the need to step out of their boxes. One participant feels he is “cut out of the loop”. Some participants are intimidated by the information load and time constraints considering the fact that most of them are full-time workers. You could actually feel the frustrations and apprehensions. I guess at this stage the facilitator is allowing participants to “arrive” (Salmon, p.19). I also feel that these initial frustrations are not just about the competencies with using the technology, but rather with the unfamiliar and relatively new software, the Bb, and experience – but there are always the laggards and the novice. It’s just a matter of time.
Almost six week into the program, some participants are still in the ‘trying’ stage. Some are still asking for help to post materials and submit assignments. Hei! some are blaming it on blockers and bugs, while others are socializing and identifying with groups of interest for the class project. One participant remarked: “I am trying to get hold of someone in my group to talk about what needs to be done. Can anyone help me?”
Another lost soul: “I am not sure (or I can’t find) how to post our group project once it is ready. Do we put it in the digital drop box and Prof. Z. uploads it? Also I want to make sure that we heard correctly, we don’t need to narrate the ppt. if we maintain the discussion board?” But I also see this as a sign to initiate communication, interestingly, no one has responded or offered any help yet. I guess by the sixth week into the program, participants would have completed forming groups and started with the information exchange.
JAL
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