Smoke and mirrors in the classroom

Teaching tools and aids have evolved over the years to a point of expectation of certain technical services at an institution such as a university. Within a series of software development and system design units, unfamiliar topics such as programming and learning new software tools have a steep learning curve. Integrated topics need precise explanation and have a heavy reliance on practical examples and technological or software aids to enhance the learning environment and automate repetitive tasks.

The desktop computer was a major milestone in the delivery of services to students and the merits of the Internet in communication, administration and content delivery need no elaboration. The laptop redefined the presentation factor when multimedia presentations and reference data can go where you need them into the classroom. Pocket PCs, handheld computers and new tablet PCs have created truer mobility in a more agreeable form factor while wireless transmission standards enable network access for these mobile devices.

With the hardware comes the software and tools for administration, research, presentation, marking, content delivery and preparation are quite common and varied in their use and impact.

Software and technology enablers

• Presentation/ Delivery (PC / Video Projectors, DVDs, CDs, wearable cinemas)
• Video/Online Training/Offline websites (Browse DVD, CD content)
• Website development (Interactive content for learning and testing))
• Educational tools (CASE tools, research)
• Remote access to content (Handheld control of laptops and PCs)
• Plagiarism Management (Automated tools for reference checking, copying)
• Administration Management (Enrolments, Access control, Class lists, marks dissemination and submission)
• Voice Recognition (Presentation control, task automation, development)
• Information Dissemination (Regular release of lecture notes and weekly material.
• Music and entertainment (Students use headphones in the labs)
• Email and instant messaging (Discussion groups. Questions and material submission and dissemination)
• Online Analytical Processing (OLAP) tools (Unit tracking and quality assurance)

With the good comes the bad and technology and software are susceptible to many issues. Fortunately there are many software and hardware solutions such as GPS tracking security alarms, smart cards and backup, firewall and viral software.

Lecturers, regardless of their topic of presentation, need technology to enhance the learning environment for the student, but must also make use of it to better manage their time and resources, and the content made available to students. Technology and software that have made this lecturer's life easier will be highlighted as well as new developments in technological learning aids.