Simulating a Dynamic Lecture Online: Circular Flow as an Example
Publication: Journal of Economic Education
Volume: Volume 37, No. 1
Issue: Winter 2006
Pages: 122
Author(s): Thomas Cook
Address
(Principal Author):
Fax Number: 206-527-3748
Office Phone: 206-526-7009
Internet Address (Principal Author): thcook@sccd.ctc.edu
Title: Simulating a Dynamic Lecture Online Circular Flow as an Example
URL: http://northonline.sccd.ctc.edu/tcook/JEE/JEE.html
Descriptive Note: Lectures placed online have not been dynamic enough. Simple PowerPoint presentations, even those that are streamed, can fail to hold students attention. They often seem very canned and lack a personal touch. This can be a problem especially for distance learning students who may feel isolated from their professors.
This alternative approach is closer to a traditional classroom’s dynamics. On the Web, students can watch and hear an economics professor sketch models, write statements, solve equations and calculate numbers. This is accomplished via PowerPoint, a tablet computer with a pointing devise, a microphone and Camtasia screen capture software. The lecture is streamed into flash format and then uploaded to the website for students to view.
Because of built-in dynamics, this learning tool is especially useful for online students and for students whose English is less developed. It also creates an opportunity for hybrid instruction, where students are asked to view lectures online and come to class prepared to participate in follow-up learning activities.
This format for online lecturing has received rave reviews from students who appreciate the ability to play a dynamic lecture over and over. Rewinding part or the entire lecture is a distinct advantage over the traditional classroom lecture. Students with English as a second language appreciate the opportunity to take time to absorb the lectures, repeat them if necessary, and assure themselves that they are prepared for class.
The website example of macroeconomics circular flow contains a complete package including a set of formal lectures, lecture notes, assessment questions, a supplemental lecture, and the corresponding reading assignment. The website also contains a description of how others can create similar dynamic lectures.
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