Case Study - Central Gippsland Institute of TAFE and the Wimba Voice Tools:

Table of Contents

1. Case Study - Central Gippsland Institute of TAFE and the Wimba Voice Tools
   1. Context
   2. Learning Community - Analysis
   3. Issues
   4. Issue Analysis and Solutions
   5. Teaching illustrations - Medical Terminology course
   6. More Teaching illustrations
   7. Skills development and Technology issues
   8. Working with in the WebCT Learning Management System
2. Further Information

Issues

Limitations of text-based online learning environments - for teachers

In a text environment, building an online community is difficult. At GippsTAFE this was recognised as a significant problem in the delivery of online educational experiences. With scenarios which are text based, educators were required to develop a whole new set of skills to teach in text only. Limitations of text include it being difficult to describe complex tones as well as the risk that text can be misinterpreted. Teaching staff have to learn a lot of skills in order to teach effectively in an online learning environment. This is a significant limitation and challenge to address.

Student issues

On the ground level, two of the key common problems identified with students are keyboarding and grammar skills. These issues are common and not only to English as a Second Language students. For example mature age students who are industry professionals who don't have good keyboarding skills also experience challenges in learning in text only environments. When offered the option to use voice, staff report that these types of students 'jump at it' as an alternative.

Additionally, it is the experience of the TAFE that the oral mode of learning is critical for some groups such as indigenous learners, learners from a non English speaking background and students with disabilities. Apart from the importance of developing oral skills in a range of subject areas, there are in fact a wide range of student groups who find it difficult to learn in the absence of voice.

Business Issues

Some courses could not be taught with text only environments. This not only limits the options for students who cannot attend courses on-campus, but limits the income generating ability of the institution.

For some courses, a text environment just wasn't practical to attempt to teach at GippsTAFE. The nature of the course may be a determinant in whether it can be taught in a text-only environment - for example language dependent course would be difficult. Or a subject area requiring detailed explanation of concepts can be very complex and confusing when done in text.