Techtalk in Volume 33 has been addressing the digital divide in technology, first through the use of mobile phones and then through the development of digital literacies with digital storytelling. This third and final column in the series looks at bridging both the hardware/software divide and the digital literacies divide through the educational…

In a previous Techtalk column, Peterson and Caverly (2005) introduced the Community of Inquiry (CoI) model (Garrison, Anderson, & Archer, 2001) as a guide for online learning. The CoI model has maintained longevity and applicability to a variety of both synchronous and asynchronous technologies (Ice, Curtis, Phillips, & Wells, 2007). In this…

In our previous two columns, we discussed the potential for using blogs and wikis with developmental education (DE) students. Another Web 2.0 technology, virtual environments like "Second Life", provides a virtual world where residents create avatars (three-dimensional [3-D] self-representations) and navigate around an online environment (Caverly,…

In the last column, we began discussing Web 2.0 applications. In this column, we'll review participatory, social networking software called "wikis." We'll define wikis, discuss their use in college classrooms, explore benefits provided for collaborative knowledge construction, and explain five types of wikis with applications to developmental…

In this article, the author discusses Assistive Technology (AT) for writing. AT provides access and assistance for students with disabilities (Swd) who might not otherwise have success with writing. Still, having access is not enough. Swd need to be assisted in their selection of the variety of AT that best fits their needs, trained how to use the…

In a previous column, standards for professional growth in educational technology for developmental educators were discussed. These standards focus on competence with technology applications for improving instruction. How these standards might be implemented through four stages of technology integration: adopting, adapting, appropriating, and…

This article interprets two frameworks for how institutions and individuals can grow in "tech-knowledge." Technology growth opportunities for developmental educators are also reviewed. In the knowledge-based environment that is postsecondary education, professional development in technology must be ongoing as technology changes. Fortunately, a…

A theme for this year's Techtalk is keeping up with technology, emphasizing both professional development and new technology. This first column will look at the how and why of professional development. A second column will highlight wireless technology. The National Association for Developmental Education's Executive Board (NADE, 2001) resolved…

Argues that the processes of locating, interpreting, and applying ideas gained from reading have remained constant, in spite of changing resources. Offers advice for structuring students' use of the Web by using an instructor-based site called WebQuest. Describes four ways to navigate this online resource. (NB)

Discusses how technology has changed higher education and how it is important to teach developmental students to effectively use technology to become better students and more effective workers. Describes a variety of portable devices and learning strategy applications. Recommends that developmental educators seriously consider the use of Personal…

Focuses on the effective use of technology in developmental mathematics instruction. Suggests that graphing calculators facilitate teaching and learning while scientific calculators do not. Discusses ways that hearing-impaired mathematics students can use the Internet for instruction at the Rochester Institute of Technology (New York). (Contains…

Explores "type 3" online educational discussions, in which instructors create an online learning community (OLC) via a threaded discussion that allows students to collect, evaluate, and create their own learning strategies. States that through the OLC, students construct their own understanding of how learning strategies work. (NB)

Argues that access to technology can be defined in two ways: (1) what students don't have--the digital divide runs along ethnicity and income lines; and (2) what is available, such as assistive technology for those with cognitive or physical disabilities. Speculates on the future of accessibility. (Contains 25 references.) (AUTH/NB)

Discusses the integration of classes in a generational model for distance education, specifically the G3 model, which focuses on the implementation of a study skills course. Reports that students are presented with online handouts and links to developmental education sites, e-mail and Web-based forums, and audio-video conferences and chat rooms.…

Suggests that there are three types of online instructional communication: (1) interaction between student and instructor only; (2) interaction between students, controlled by instructor; and (3) student-centered and student-led online discussions. Analyzes first type as a means of moving to other types of exchange. (NB)