OLTD Learning Outcomes:

• Become familiar with common terms, definitions and elements related to online environments
• Plan learning opportunities most suitable to the strength and challenges of a variety of environments
• Critically assess and evaluate resources for best practice in online learning
• Develop practical and technical skills in all phases of concept, development, design, implementation, ect

Evidence to Support Outcome:

• Resource Package Submission
  • Please note this package was created for the purposes of OLTD 506 and there are no current plans to deploy the tool discussed therein at Vancouver Island University

Reflection to Support Evidence:

During Fall 2014 for OLTD 506 I created a resource package focused on a specific social media web 2.0 tool – Wiggio. The resource package contains a description of the tool, a listing of all Vancouver Island University policies that would relate to that tool, a draft permission slip for tool use, and a risk assessment on the use of the tool.

The creation of this resource package gave me a lot of experience reading and assessing privacy policies and end user agreements. I needed to also practice explaining the pertinent items within those agreements to an audience that may not be as well versed in privacy rights or the risks associated with using social media tools. Completing this package gave me a lot of experience with the language of privacy and protection of privacy, and gave me a much clearer understanding of the vetting process needed when considering implementing or deploying a new tool on our campus. Due to my current position at the university, it is extremely important that I am able to articulate the critically assessment of new tools for faculty members so they and their students are protected. The process of developing this package was very challenging, and I feel I am better prepared to assist in the vetting and adoption of tools when and if our department pursues them.

Educators need to have a strong understanding of how to critically and objectively assess the risks and rewards of different educational tools, or else they will leave themselves and their students open to potential dangers. Without having to go through this process and have your work assessed by someone who understands the challenges of social media, it is easy to be swept up in what a tool can do while marginalizing the risks. An educator must have a strong understanding of the policies governing social media, or they will be unable to adhere to them. They must also have a strong understanding of the tools they plan to use, so they can explain to students and/or parents how best to keep themselves safe online.