Tips for Success

The DUT's Your Web-Your Way is an independent learning programme that provides participants with an opportunity to explore Web 2.0 tools and the impact these tools have on teaching and learning in higher education. Participants will be guided by a series of weekly activities and encouraged to take control of their own learning.

How does it work?
For 10 weeks (starting January 11, 2010) you will use freely available Web 2.0 tools (such as Blogger, Flickr, Wikispaces and Del.icio.us) to complete a number of activities. Each new week will focus on a specific tool and all activities will give you the opportunity to explore the tool and consider the ways in which the tool can be used in your own specific curriculum.

You will find that you need to create quite a few online accounts for yourself. If you email me, I will send you the form that I use, otherwise devise your own plan!! Believe me, you will need some way to keep track.

How much time will this require?
You will want to devote at least two hours per week on each Web 2.0 tool; you will probably spend more time on the tools that catch your interest. A reasonable goal is to cover one topic per week, however you have the flexibility to move at your own pace. The programme will remain online through the winter term, but will not be monitored after March 31st.

What do I need to participate?

1. High-speed Internet access
2. Intermediate computer skills
3. Comfort and skill to independently navigate the Internet and create online accounts
4. Motivation to learn

Is there any tech support?
Not really! I will try and answer questions by email with the assistance one of my trusty technology mentors Mary Astorino or Sue Davis, but I cannot provide full technical support. This is all about learning independently but problem-solve with other participants as much as possible. As well, most sites like Blogger, Google and Flickr will have a Help or a FAQ section - they are very useful!