May 1995 — Features

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Students Assess Computer-Aided Classroom Presentations

Students believe computers are the wave of the future and that this is the "in" thing. A few students perceive technology as expensive. They are concerned it will raise their tuition and also believe that money could be better spent on other things. Conclusions Student responses were, in general, very positive. They overwhelming supported continued use of the computer in the classroom. Computer-aided presentations help with organization of the material. They also are a huge advance over hastily scribbled notes on a blackboard or overhead. Many of the problems students pointed out can easily be solved. It is obvious that ongoing training and practice are necessary ingredients for successful use of the equipment. For example, workshops and one-on-one sessions with instructional designer on screen design have proved vital. Effective selection of colors and fonts would improve the clarity and legibility of slides. Practice sessions with peers would help faculty gain experience using the equipment. Equipment should also be located in rooms that have adjustable lights and hardware lock-up facilities to minimize setup time. In addition, unless faculty move beyond bullet points and incorporate images, sound, and other multimedia elements, the computer provides no more value than an expensive overhead transparency. Apparently, the average faculty member needs more time to develop presentations that incorporate hypermedia. Also since note-taking is of prime importance to students, faculty should give handouts of slides or make the material available elsewhere. Finally, to avoid being locked to the computer, faculty should investigate using remote control devices, and also periodically stop to interact with the class. It is important to continue teaching in one's traditional style and use the computer as a tool to enhance, not dominate, the lecture.
Martha Sammons is a professor of English at Wright State University. Her book, Multimedia on the Go: The Educator's and Presenter's Handbook will be published this year by Libraries Unlimited. E-mail: msammons@desire.wright.edu Product mentioned: Compel; Asymetrix Corp., Bellevue, Wash., (800) 448-6543