Using E-Learning and Multimedia to Develop Technical Skills

Abstract:

Elearning is often viewed as a tool to communicate only theory courses, with little relevance to building vocational skills. Current learning platforms are primarily concerned with basic software features like whiteboards, discussion questions, CHAT, etc. While these applications are helpful for communicating many concepts, a different approach is needed when using elearning to teach vocational skills.

The presenters of this workshop have ears of experience in designing and delivering training to the vocational market. They have been involved in video production, designing online courses, and developing simulation exercises to communicate technical skills.

Technology can be combined with adult education principles to create an advanced form of learning that extends beyond discussion questions and CHAT. When properly used, elearning can be a critical concept in the field of vocational education.

Presenters:

Stephen Yurkiw
George Siemens

Stephen Yurkiw is the Instruction Designer in the Hospitality Department Red River College (RRC) of Applied Arts, Science and Technology in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Stephen has over 15 years of experience in developing innovative methods of incorporating learning technologies into the program and curriculum design process. As the Instruction Designer, he coordinates the Hospitality Department's efforts to incorporate these learning technology resources into its courses. He has developed multimedia learning resources including video, HTML documents, Authorware activities, etc. for various vocational courses. He is currently completing his Masters in Educational Technology.

George Siemens is an Instructor in the Hospitality Department Red River College (RRC) of Applied Arts, Science and Technology in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. As an Instructor for the past 5 years, he has participated in the curriculum design process and he has experienced the challenges and opportunities that are presented by the use of new learning technologies in a vocational environment. He is currently instructing a variety of courses using multimedia resources to develop technical skills. Learning resources include: simulations, video, and streaming technologies. He is also active in leading the RRC elearning community through his publication of a twice-weekly elearning newsletter and through seminars and workshops designed to expand RRC's elearning capacity to other departments at the college.

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