EDLD 5303: Exploring Digital Resources

In the early stages of the Applied Digital Learning (ADL) program, we are introduced to various digital tools designed to enhance our environments, making them more digitally inclined and effective, especially with the integration of AI. Now, it is time to delve deeper and explore specific tools that cater to the unique needs of my role as a program director in surgical technology. This assignment aims to evaluate and discover new digital tools that could enrich both my classroom and professional workplace, fostering better engagement, improving efficiency, and enhancing the learning experience for my students. Through this exploration, I will assess the practical applications of various tools to ensure they align with both my teaching style and the goals of the program.

NearPod

Setting Up NearPod: To begin using NearPod, I first created a teacher account on the NearPod website. Once logged in, I was able to upload a PowerPoint presentation I had already prepared. The uploading process was smooth, and NearPod converted my slides into an interactive format. The system preserved the original layout and design of my slides, which was important for maintaining the structure of my content. I found the platform’s ease of use in uploading files to be a helpful feature, allowing me to seamlessly transition from traditional PowerPoint presentations to a more dynamic tool for student engagement.

Adding Interactive Elements: One of the highlights of NearPod is its interactive features. After uploading my presentation, I decided to incorporate a "Memory Test" to evaluate student understanding of key topics. I simply clicked on the "Add Slide" button and selected "Memory Test" from the list of available tools. From there, I was able to create a quiz with multiple-choice and true/false questions. The process was straightforward and didn’t require any coding or advanced technical skills. The tool also allows for customization of questions, making it easy to align the quiz with the content of my presentation.

Running the Session: After preparing the presentation and interactive tools, I set up a "Live Lesson" session. This feature allowed me to present the material in real time, controlling the pace of the lesson and ensuring that I could address any points of confusion before moving forward. Although I have not had the opportunity to run this with my students yet due to their clinical rotations, I imagine this feature would be extremely valuable for keeping students engaged and ensuring they are following along with the material. The platform also offers real-time feedback, which would be essential for monitoring students’ progress and engagement as they participate.

Student Interaction and Engagement: During the session, students would be able to interact with the material through polls, quizzes, and other interactive tools. Based on my experience, these features allow students to actively engage with the lesson rather than passively watching or listening. For example, I integrated a poll within the presentation to gauge students’ understanding of specific surgical instruments. The immediate feedback provided by this poll would allow me to adapt the session to focus on areas where students may need further explanation or review. The inclusion of interactive elements encourages students to take ownership of their learning, promoting deeper engagement with the content.

Assessment and Feedback: After the session, NearPod generates a comprehensive report on student performance, which includes results from the memory test and any other interactive tools used during the presentation. Although I have yet to use this feature in a live setting, the ability to review these reports would be incredibly useful for assessing how well students grasped the material. I could use this data to identify trends in class performance, address specific knowledge gaps, and tailor future lessons accordingly. The ease of access to detailed assessments would enable me to better support students in mastering critical concepts related to surgical technology.

Analysis of NearPod's Advantages and Disadvantages

In my role as a program director for surgical technology at Angelina College, NearPod stands out as a versatile educational tool. One of its primary advantages is the ability to integrate multiple types of interactive elements into a single lesson. For example, in a course focused on surgical procedures, I could easily create presentations that combine detailed visuals, video demonstrations, and knowledge checks, all within the same platform. This multimodal approach is especially valuable for teaching complex and technical subjects like the ones in my program. The ability to track student engagement in real-time, through polls and quizzes, would allow me to adjust the pace of lessons to ensure that students are grasping key concepts before moving on.

On the flip side, I encountered a few limitations during my exploration of the platform. While the tool offers a wide variety of features, some of them, such as customizing quizzes with more advanced question types, could use improvement. For instance, while I can create multiple-choice or true/false questions, more advanced question formats such as matching questions or case studies are not as easily incorporated into the memory test. In the context of teaching surgical technology, where students must master intricate details like sterile processing protocols or surgical instrument names, the current quiz formats might not fully capture the complexity of the material. Additionally, the system relies heavily on an internet connection, which could pose challenges in settings where students do not have access to stable technology.

In terms of practical applications, NearPod can be an invaluable resource for enhancing student engagement in my surgical technology program. For example, I could use it to present content on the proper handling of surgical instruments or the principles of aseptic technique, interspersing interactive questions to test comprehension. The real-time data would help me monitor student progress and adjust lessons as needed. I can also see the potential for NearPod to be used for ongoing assessment throughout a course, allowing for regular check-ins on student understanding without the need for formal exams. This would enable me to provide targeted support to students who may need extra help with specific topics.

A major advantage of NearPod is its ability to provide immediate feedback on student understanding. This feedback is crucial in a program like surgical technology, where students need to quickly internalize technical information in order to apply it correctly in clinical settings. The reports generated by NearPod offer an efficient way to track student progress and ensure that learning gaps are addressed promptly. Additionally, the platform’s ability to store lesson content and assessments in one place makes it easy to revisit past lessons and review student performance over time.

That said, NearPod may not be ideal for every teaching scenario. In particular, the tool does not offer the same depth of customization as some other specialized educational software, which could be a limitation for advanced courses in surgical technology. For example, in teaching complex procedures or specific surgical techniques, more specialized simulations or hands-on experiences may be necessary. NearPod excels in creating engaging, interactive presentations, but for highly technical, skill-based learning, other resources may be required to complement the content delivered through NearPod.

In conclusion, NearPod is a powerful and versatile tool that holds significant promise for enhancing learning in my surgical technology program. While it has some limitations in terms of advanced customization and the complexity of assessments, its ease of use and interactive features make it an excellent tool for engaging students and tracking their progress. Moving forward, I look forward to incorporating NearPod into my teaching, especially as my students return from their clinical rotations, to create dynamic, engaging lessons that foster active learning and improve retention of crucial surgical concepts.

InVideo AI

Setting Up the Project: To start using InVideo AI, I first logged into my account and selected the “Create New Project” option. I chose a blank canvas to begin with since I already had a script prepared by the collaborative writing efforts of my group members. The platform provides a variety of templates, but in this case, I opted to start from scratch to ensure the video would align closely with the content we had developed. Once the project was set up, I proceeded to the next step of uploading the script.

Uploading the Script: Since the script was already prepared, I copied and pasted it into InVideo AI’s text editor. The platform automatically detected the text and helped break it down into manageable parts. I was able to assign different voices to each group member by selecting from the range of available text-to-speech voice options. This feature is particularly useful for distinguishing between individual speakers, making the video feel more personalized and engaging.

Selecting Stock Images and Videos: InVideo AI offers an extensive library of stock images and video clips that I could incorporate into the video. Based on the content of the script, I selected visuals that aligned with the message and topic we were presenting. The tool allowed me to search for relevant media based on keywords, making it easy to find visuals that fit well with the narrative. I made sure to choose stock footage that complemented the theme of our project, ensuring the video would appear cohesive and professional.

Editing the Video: Once the visuals were in place, I began the editing process. InVideo AI provides a timeline where I could drag and drop clips, images, and text. However, I found the editing tool to be somewhat cumbersome and not as intuitive as I would have liked. Adjusting the timing of each clip and fine-tuning the transitions between visuals was a bit time-consuming. The interface was not as user-friendly as I had hoped, especially when trying to sync the audio and visual elements together. Despite these challenges, I was able to make the necessary adjustments to create a polished final product.

Adding Voiceovers and Music: After the visuals were aligned, I proceeded to add the voiceovers. As mentioned, I assigned a different voice to each group member, as well as a narrator for the overarching script. InVideo AI's text-to-speech functionality allowed me to assign distinct voices, adding a dynamic quality to the video. Once the voices were in place, I added background music from the available library. While the music options were varied, I found it difficult to control the volume levels of the music relative to the voiceovers. This proved to be a challenge as I had to make several adjustments to get the audio balance just right.

Exporting and Uploading: Once the video was complete, I exported the final product. InVideo AI provided the option to download the video in different formats, which was convenient. After downloading the video, I uploaded it to YouTube for sharing. The export process was relatively smooth, but it did take some time depending on the video length and resolution. After uploading to YouTube, I checked the video to ensure everything appeared correctly and that the audio levels were balanced.

Analysis of InVideo AI's Advantages and Disadvantages:

InVideo AI has proven to be a powerful tool for creating videos with the help of AI-generated voiceovers, stock footage, and text-to-speech functionality. The biggest advantage of this platform is the ease with which I was able to generate a video based on a script, thanks to its library of stock images, videos, and customizable voice options. I was able to assign each group member a unique voice, which enhanced the presentation by making it feel more personal and engaging. The ability to choose from a variety of stock footage ensured that the visuals would match the content of the script, helping to create a visually compelling video.

One area where InVideo AI excels is its vast selection of stock media. Searching for relevant images and video clips was straightforward and saved a significant amount of time. The tool allowed me to quickly enhance the video's visual appeal, which would have been difficult to achieve using just a basic presentation tool or editing software. Additionally, the text-to-speech functionality made it easy to convert the script into voiceovers, which I could fine-tune to suit the tone of each speaker. The flexibility to assign different voices to each part of the script added an element of variety to the video, which would have been difficult to replicate with traditional narration.

However, there are some notable disadvantages to using InVideo AI, especially for those who are seeking a more streamlined editing experience. The video editing interface is not as user-friendly as other video editing software, and it requires a steep learning curve to use efficiently. For example, the process of adjusting the timing of clips and syncing them with the voiceovers was not as intuitive as I had hoped. It often required repetitive adjustments to get everything in sync, which added significant time to the editing process.

Another challenge I encountered was controlling the music volume levels. While InVideo AI offers a variety of background music options, the ability to fine-tune the audio levels to ensure the voiceovers are clear and audible over the music was limited. This required me to adjust the music volume multiple times to strike a balance, which was a tedious task. In a professional setting, where precise control over audio is critical, this limitation could be frustrating.

Practical applications of InVideo AI in my professional context are evident, especially in the development of educational videos. For example, I could create instructional videos for my students in the surgical technology program, using voiceovers and visuals to explain complex procedures or equipment handling. The ability to incorporate different voices could make these lessons feel more dynamic, which could help maintain student engagement. Furthermore, by uploading these videos to YouTube, I could easily share them with students and provide them with accessible, on-demand learning materials.

In conclusion, InVideo AI is a useful tool for creating video content, particularly when paired with its extensive library of stock media and AI-generated voiceovers. While the platform's editing tools and audio controls could benefit from more refinement, it remains a valuable resource for creating engaging and visually appealing videos. The ability to upload to YouTube directly after creation is also a significant convenience, making it easier to share the finished product with students and colleagues. Despite the challenges I encountered with the editing and audio levels, I would still recommend InVideo AI for creating basic educational videos, though I would also be mindful of its limitations when it comes to more complex editing needs.

PADLET

Creating a Padlet: To start using Padlet, I first logged into my account and clicked on the "Create New Padlet" option. Padlet offers various templates to choose from, such as the "Wall," "Grid," or "Map," depending on the type of content I wanted to share. For this project, I chose the "Wall" template, as it allowed for easy organization of posts and allowed students to engage with the material in a dynamic way. After selecting the template, I was prompted to name the Padlet and configure some basic settings, such as privacy controls and whether or not posts would require approval before being visible.

Customizing the Layout and Design: Once the Padlet was created, I moved on to customizing the layout and design. Padlet offers a range of customization options, such as selecting a background color or image, changing the font, and adjusting the grid layout. I personalized the appearance to match the theme of the lesson I was teaching, ensuring it would be visually appealing to the students. The platform allows for seamless integration of different media, so I added relevant images and videos that corresponded with the content in my surgical technology course. This feature was especially useful for breaking up text-heavy content and providing students with a more engaging learning experience.

Adding Posts: After customizing the appearance, I began adding content to the Padlet by creating individual posts. These posts could include text, images, links, videos, or even files. I created posts for different aspects of the lesson, such as definitions of surgical terms, procedure steps, and relevant videos explaining surgical techniques. Each post was labeled and organized by topic, which made it easier for students to navigate the Padlet. The ability to quickly add multimedia to the posts allowed me to create a comprehensive and varied learning experience, all within the same platform.

Analysis of Padlet's Advantages and Disadvantages:

Padlet is a highly versatile and user-friendly platform that has proven to be an excellent tool for enhancing student engagement, especially in the field of surgical technology. One of the major advantages is its ease of use, allowing both instructors and students to quickly add content and interact with the material. For example, in teaching surgical procedures, I can create a Padlet board with step-by-step images, videos, and text descriptions. The ability for students to contribute their own posts, ask questions, and share insights makes Padlet an effective tool for fostering collaborative learning, especially in a hands-on, technical field like surgical technology.

Another significant advantage is Padlet’s multimedia capabilities. The platform supports the inclusion of a variety of media types, such as images, videos, links, and files, which can be used to enrich the learning experience. For instance, I can embed instructional videos on surgical instruments or procedure techniques directly into the Padlet, making it a one-stop resource for students. This multimedia functionality enhances the learning experience, particularly when students can visually and interactively engage with the material. It also helps cater to different learning styles, as students can access both visual and text-based content, making it a flexible tool for diverse learners.

One potential drawback of Padlet is the limited ability to organize content once it has been posted. While the platform does allow for some customization, I found it difficult to restructure posts if I wanted to change the order or reorganize them by topic after they had been added. For example, when several students contribute posts, it can become challenging to ensure the content flows in a logical sequence. Although Padlet’s grid layout can help, it is not always the most effective way to display more complex, hierarchical information. For surgical technology students, where concepts often need to be clearly organized and understood sequentially, this can sometimes be a limitation.

Additionally, while Padlet’s collaborative features are incredibly useful for promoting student engagement, they also come with the risk of students posting off-topic or incomplete information. While I can monitor contributions and approve posts, it does require a level of oversight. This can be time-consuming, especially if many students are actively contributing. In a surgical technology program, where accuracy is paramount, there is a need for instructors to verify that the content being posted is correct and aligns with the curriculum. This need for oversight could be a challenge in larger classes or when managing multiple Padlets simultaneously.

Despite these challenges, Padlet remains an invaluable tool for my work. Its collaborative features are particularly beneficial for encouraging students to take ownership of their learning. For example, when studying complex surgical procedures, students can post their own insights, questions, and additional resources, creating a shared learning space. This collaborative aspect is invaluable in a program like ours, where peer learning and feedback play a significant role in helping students master technical concepts.

In conclusion, Padlet is a powerful platform for enhancing student engagement and fostering collaboration, especially in a technical field like surgical technology. Its ease of use, multimedia capabilities, and collaborative features make it an excellent tool for creating interactive and dynamic learning environments. While it does have limitations in terms of content organization and the need for oversight, its advantages in terms of fostering student interaction and engagement far outweigh these drawbacks. As I continue to integrate Padlet into my curriculum, I look forward to using it as a tool to build more interactive, student-centered lessons.

Aha Slides 

Setting Up the AhaSlides Presentation: To begin using AhaSlides, I logged into my account and selected the “Create New Presentation” option. The platform offers a range of templates, and for this session, I chose the "Classroom Icebreaker" template. This template was ideal for introducing the topic in a fun and engaging way. After selecting the template, I customized the presentation by adjusting the questions and adding relevant prompts for the session. The platform’s drag-and-drop interface made it easy to modify the pre-designed slides and set up the session without any complications.

Customizing the Icebreaker Questions: After setting up the template, I customized the icebreaker questions to align with the objectives of the session. AhaSlides offers various types of questions, such as multiple choice, word clouds, and Q&A. I opted for a combination of multiple-choice questions and a word cloud to introduce concepts related to the course. The multiple-choice questions helped direct the session, while the word cloud allowed for a visual representation of key ideas related to the course topic. The customization options made it easy to create an engaging icebreaker that was aligned with the goals of the session.

Setting Up the Presentation Flow: Once the questions were customized, I set the flow of the presentation. The platform allows for seamless transitions between slides, which I used to move from one question to the next without disrupting the flow of the session. I adjusted the timing for each slide, ensuring that there was enough time to reflect on each prompt. This step was crucial to maintain the pacing of the session and ensure that each part of the icebreaker was presented effectively. The timing settings allowed me to fine-tune the flow and make the session feel smooth and cohesive.

Running the Icebreaker Session: After setting up the presentation, I started the session using the AhaSlides interface. The system displayed the slides in real-time, with the pre-set icebreaker questions ready to be addressed. As I moved through the presentation, I was able to monitor the progress and make any adjustments if necessary. The platform allowed for a dynamic presentation of questions and responses, and the word cloud feature generated a visual representation of ideas in real-time. This feature was visually engaging and provided an immediate overview of the key concepts I wanted to highlight in the session.

Reviewing and Analyzing Responses: After completing the session, I reviewed the responses and analyzed the data collected in the AhaSlides dashboard. The platform provides a detailed overview of each question and its results, which helped me gauge how well the session objectives were met. The word cloud allowed me to visualize the most common responses and themes, providing useful insights into the ideas and concepts discussed. This feedback was valuable in determining whether the icebreaker was successful and whether any further adjustments were needed for future sessions.

Analysis of AhaSlides' Advantages and Disadvantages:

AhaSlides is a dynamic and interactive platform that offers numerous advantages for educational purposes. One of the most significant advantages is the ease of use, which allows for quick setup and customization of presentations. I was able to easily design an icebreaker session that was engaging and aligned with the objectives of the class. The platform provides various question types, such as multiple-choice, word clouds, and polls, which can be tailored to fit the specific needs of the lesson. This variety helps keep the presentation fresh and engaging, making it an effective tool for introducing new topics or concepts.

Another advantage is AhaSlides’ flexibility in presentation design. The platform allows for easy customization of the layout, which helped me create a visually appealing presentation that matched the tone and theme of the lesson. The ability to integrate multimedia, such as images and videos, also added depth to the session, making it more engaging. The word cloud feature, in particular, provided a visually appealing way to highlight key ideas and concepts, making it easier to review and analyze student input.

However, AhaSlides does have some limitations that could be important in my professional context. While the platform is versatile, I found the customization options for question designs to be somewhat limited. For example, there is little flexibility in the layout and appearance of the word cloud or other question types, which can make it harder to match the design to specific needs. In a field like surgical technology, where visual clarity and specific detail are crucial, more customization options for content presentation would be beneficial.

In addition, while AhaSlides allows for real-time feedback and analysis, it lacks more advanced features for detailed data tracking. For example, the platform does not offer a robust analytics dashboard that would allow me to dig deeper into individual responses or track student progress over time. In a program like surgical technology, where tracking student learning and progress is essential, this could be a limitation. The platform’s ability to collect and visualize responses is useful for immediate feedback, but it does not provide as much in-depth analysis as some other tools might.

Despite these drawbacks, AhaSlides offers significant value in creating engaging, interactive learning experiences. In my context, it could be particularly effective for introducing new concepts or conducting icebreaker activities that set the stage for the rest of the course. It’s a great tool for breaking the ice in a technical field like surgical technology, where complex topics can sometimes make the classroom feel intimidating. By incorporating multimedia elements and interactive features, AhaSlides can help students feel more connected to the material, fostering a collaborative and open learning environment.

In conclusion, AhaSlides is an excellent tool for creating dynamic, interactive presentations. Its user-friendly interface, variety of question formats, and multimedia integration make it a valuable resource for enhancing engagement in the classroom. While it has some limitations in terms of customization and detailed analytics, its strengths in facilitating real-time interaction and feedback make it a strong tool for classroom engagement, particularly in a technical field like surgical technology.

Genially

Setting Up the Genially Account: To begin using Genially, I created an account on the platform. The sign-up process was simple and quick, and once logged in, I was taken to the dashboard where I could choose the type of content I wanted to create. Genially offers a wide range of templates, including presentations, infographics, and interactive images. For this particular project, I opted to use a presentation template, as it would allow me to deliver information in a visually engaging way. After selecting the template, I was ready to start customizing my presentation.

Choosing and Customizing the Template: Genially provides a variety of customizable templates designed for different presentation purposes. I selected a template that was visually appealing and aligned with the tone of the presentation I was planning to create. Once the template was selected, I began customizing it by adding text, images, and icons. The platform provides an easy drag-and-drop interface, which made the process quick and intuitive. Customizing the content was straightforward, and I was able to adjust elements such as colors, fonts, and image placement to match my style and the goals of the presentation.

Incorporating Interactive Elements: One of Genially’s standout features is the ability to add interactive elements. After setting up the basic content, I explored the interactive options, such as clickable buttons, animations, and links. I incorporated several of these interactive elements into the presentation, allowing the viewer to navigate through the slides in a more engaging and non-linear way. For example, I added buttons that linked to additional information or external resources, making the presentation feel more dynamic. These interactive features are especially useful for engaging an audience with complex material, as they allow the user to explore content at their own pace.

Previewing and Fine-Tuning the Presentation: After adding the interactive elements and finalizing the content, I previewed the presentation to ensure everything functioned as expected. The platform allowed me to test all interactive features, such as buttons and links, before finalizing the design. This preview feature was helpful for identifying any issues with navigation or layout before sharing the presentation. I also took the time to fine-tune the animations and transitions, adjusting the timing of each element to create a smooth flow throughout the presentation.

Sharing and Publishing the Presentation: Once I was satisfied with the final presentation, I published it on Genially. The platform provides multiple sharing options, including generating a link, embedding the presentation on a website, or sharing it directly on social media. I opted to generate a shareable link, which I could easily distribute to colleagues or students. The sharing process was seamless, and the platform provided options to control privacy settings, ensuring that only those with the link could view the presentation. The ability to easily share and distribute the presentation made Genially a convenient tool for professional use.

Analysis of Genially's Advantages and Disadvantages:

Genially offers several advantages that make it a valuable tool for creating visually engaging and interactive presentations. One of the platform’s strongest points is its ease of use. The drag-and-drop interface allows for quick customization, and the wide range of templates and design elements makes it possible to create professional-looking presentations without the need for advanced design skills. For a program like surgical technology, where complex procedures and technical concepts need to be conveyed clearly, Genially’s customizable features allow me to create presentations that are both informative and visually appealing.

Another significant advantage is the interactive features offered by Genially. The ability to add clickable buttons, animations, and links enhances the presentation by making it more dynamic and engaging. In the context of surgical technology, this could be particularly useful for explaining step-by-step procedures or for creating interactive diagrams that allow students to explore different surgical instruments or techniques. The interactive elements can also be used to provide additional resources or explanations on demand, which would help reinforce key concepts in a more personalized and engaging way.

However, one downside of Genially is the learning curve associated with some of its more advanced features. While the basic tools are easy to use, I found that the platform’s more complex interactive features, such as customizing animations or setting up advanced navigation, took some time to master. For example, while adding buttons and links was simple, fine-tuning their behavior (such as making them navigate to specific sections or adjusting their timing) required some trial and error. In a professional setting where time is limited, this can be somewhat frustrating, especially if you need to create multiple interactive elements in a short time.

Additionally, while Genially allows for a high degree of customization, the platform’s templates may not always align perfectly with the specific needs of a highly technical or niche subject like surgical technology. For example, while there are many design options, I found that the available templates were more suited for general use rather than specialized fields. In some cases, I had to modify the templates significantly to ensure that they would effectively communicate the specific details of surgical procedures or medical terminology. A more tailored selection of templates for technical fields could improve the platform’s utility for specialized teaching.

Despite these challenges, Genially’s interactive capabilities are a major asset, particularly for creating presentations that are engaging and visually dynamic. In a surgical technology program, where students need to grasp complex and technical concepts, being able to present material in a highly interactive format can make a significant difference in student engagement and understanding. By incorporating clickable elements and animations, I can highlight key aspects of surgical procedures or explain intricate medical terminology in a way that is both informative and visually appealing.

In conclusion, Genially is a powerful tool for creating engaging, interactive presentations that can enhance the learning experience. While it has some limitations in terms of customization and a slight learning curve for advanced features, its ease of use, interactive elements, and professional design options make it an excellent tool for creating educational content. Although I have not yet used Genially with my students, I can see its potential in a surgical technology program, where visual clarity and student engagement are critical. The ability to create dynamic, interactive presentations could help students better understand complex concepts and retain information more effectively.