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Thursday, May 01, 2008
Comfortable Routine
As I'm currently in the PELD computer lab with my students, I do not have access to the document in which I keep many details about my life. I know that my first class at BCIT was during the fall of 1997. I know that I surpassed the ten-year mark last fall. Yet, I do not know how many times I've taught this COMM 0004 course. The length of the course can vary because of the schedule. For example, this intensive one is 84 hours spread out over twenty-one afternoons.Whatever the total count, I am happy in this current one. The happiness may be due to the fact our midterms are over and we will finish up completely a week from today. Each group of students brings a different dynamic to the classroom. The materials which are taught change over time, but the individuals change in every single class.
In each class, the students' motivation, sense of humour, and academic skills differ. Consequently, these differences affect my own motivation, sense of humour, and teaching performance.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
What's a Cassette, Teacher?
Today, I had my COMM 0004 students work on a new task.
I have scheduled our entire four-hour class in our department's special computer lab on Thursdays. The flat-screen monitors fold out of the way and the students are able to work in groups during the majority of the afternoon. We work on the computers for the last hour or so.
Many of their special online assignments found on our course homepage can be completed from home. So, I decided to have the students make voice recordings. They hand them in, so to speak, by copying to an Institute share-in network drive. The first assignment was simply to speak for 90 seconds. They were to describe a particular holiday in their culture. Then, they were to share the special ways they celebrate it. I have copied the files to a different share-out drive, so they may listen to each other's recordings.
I have been teaching the same level for many years at BCIT. However, I amaze even myself by how different the class is each time. I vary the materials but even if I didn't, each group of students has a unique character. I am enjoying the present one a lot.
I have scheduled our entire four-hour class in our department's special computer lab on Thursdays. The flat-screen monitors fold out of the way and the students are able to work in groups during the majority of the afternoon. We work on the computers for the last hour or so.
Many of their special online assignments found on our course homepage can be completed from home. So, I decided to have the students make voice recordings. They hand them in, so to speak, by copying to an Institute share-in network drive. The first assignment was simply to speak for 90 seconds. They were to describe a particular holiday in their culture. Then, they were to share the special ways they celebrate it. I have copied the files to a different share-out drive, so they may listen to each other's recordings.
I have been teaching the same level for many years at BCIT. However, I amaze even myself by how different the class is each time. I vary the materials but even if I didn't, each group of students has a unique character. I am enjoying the present one a lot.
Labels: BCIT, computer lab, students, technology
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Wide Open
I got roped into the obligation a few weeks back. I volunteered to help my department at the annual BCIT Open House. PELD had a table set up in order to hand out information and answer questions from potential students. Professional English Language Development is a part of Academic Studies. We offer upgrading courses for students who haven't completed English 12 from a high school here. Of course many of our clients are immigrants from the professions who need some additional language exposure. The ultimate goal for our standard courses is entry into the programs offered at BCIT.
For the first several hours, I manned the table and was able to talk with quite a few interested people. Then I grabbed a super-quick lunch and headed off to the NE1 Building to open the PELD computer lab. We encouraged visitors to try some of the software we use. For example, Pronunciation Power helps students with detailed analysis of the sounds of the language. Microphones and headsets are used. Unfortunately, as the location was a bit out of the way, it lacked the carnival atmosphere near the center of things. Still, there were a few who came in to look around and stayed. I had several long conversations with visitors.
All it all, it was a useful experience.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Evaluating Audio Responses
So far, my cold has turned out less severe than I expected. I feel a tiny bit out of sorts but things are certainly manageable. So, you may have wondered why I didn't get a blog entry posted earlier in the afternoon. The answer is quite simple.I've been going over some work that I needed to complete. I was checking a batch of Spoken English Assessment placement tests. The tests were given on computers and the evaulation must take place on one too. We, as educators at BCIT, adapt well to changes in technology. I really didn't give it a second thought when putting the CD ROM containing all the audio clips into the disc drive on my laptop. I simply open a Word document that links to the answers and launch the on-page player for each answer. After listening to each, I need to place it within a band which describes the fluency and completeness. It's really easy but it does take a long time. The really amazing part is how all markers end up with nearly the exact same scores at the end. As an instructor, I do love certain types of consistency.
Labels: BCIT
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Note to Self: Chill.
I should keep better track. Maybe this is the time of the year when work sometimes gets to me. It's my second intensive course of the year and the week in between the midterm and final. We had an assignment in the BCIT library today, and then we went back to the classroom for another three hours. As well, I volunteered to administer a computerized speaking evaulation this evening. I just got home a little while ago.
I think I used to be less stressed even when I had more on my plate. It's time to step back and appreciate the opportunities I have and circumstances I'm in. For example, this is the view from SW3 4725. It can be rather pleasing.
I think I used to be less stressed even when I had more on my plate. It's time to step back and appreciate the opportunities I have and circumstances I'm in. For example, this is the view from SW3 4725. It can be rather pleasing.
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Tomorrow's Curtain Call
It's nearly in the can.This statement alone must represent some of my thoughts about being an educator. I am one of those instructors who love the process much more than the subject. Teaching communication skills is really a blessing for those like me. I am a true believer learning should be a show, sometimes a dog and pony one. I'd be bored silly if it weren't for the wide berth given to instructors in my department. I'm able to treat a majority of classes as small productions. Nowadays, teaching must complete with diversions in a media-heavy universe.
The days I love the best are when the whole afternoon has felt like something suitable for stage or screen. My current players are getting ready for tomorrow's final examination which is quite traditional and paper-based.
My group this term is composed of just fourteen. They are small and close-knit. This is the type of class which are planning a dinner out after their final exam. Only a small percentage of my classes choose to voluntarily hang out together after it's all officially over!
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
The Power of Ten (Years)
Of course I really can't imagine a world before television. I grew up with American TV. Actually, by the time I was born, broadcasting was well over a decade old. I saw statistics which stated there were a million televisions in US homes in 1948 and I was born in 1959. I don't really know at what point sets became a standard fare in nearly every home. I know people first used to gather at certain establishments to view. When I was growing up we used to sometimes eat lunch or dinner at The Pine's Restaurant in Guild, New Hampshire. I remember them getting the first colour set that I'd seen. I recall hearing the owners bought one of the first B&W models in the area. So from the end of the 40's to my childhood in the 60's, there'd already been quite a lot of programming.
I've been watching a special series on PBS. I've seen at least three of the episodes of Pioneers of Television. An invention can change the world a lot in ten years.
Likewise, I just sent off an email message to my class. Due to the fact that upon registration all students receive an institutional email address, I can, with confidence, send any last minute notices. This feature works in conjunction with a course web page specifically for each class I teach. Consequently, I can press a single button and be assured that each student gets the information in their inbox. Although I just got a 10-year pin for my work at BCIT, using the Internet to this extent wasn't possible back in 1997/98. The way we operate can change greatly in one decade!
Here's a message I sent earlier this morning:
I've been watching a special series on PBS. I've seen at least three of the episodes of Pioneers of Television. An invention can change the world a lot in ten years.
Likewise, I just sent off an email message to my class. Due to the fact that upon registration all students receive an institutional email address, I can, with confidence, send any last minute notices. This feature works in conjunction with a course web page specifically for each class I teach. Consequently, I can press a single button and be assured that each student gets the information in their inbox. Although I just got a 10-year pin for my work at BCIT, using the Internet to this extent wasn't possible back in 1997/98. The way we operate can change greatly in one decade!
Here's a message I sent earlier this morning:
I'm sure you know that BCIT campuses are closed this morning. The weather forecast suggests that it will get warmer this afternoon, but due to transit trouble, I'm sure it will be reasonable to cancel our afternoon class.
Because we have very little time in the Intensive classes, we must make up the four hours we'll miss today.
We will meet on Friday afternoon this week. Please arrange your schedule so that we can complete all the work necessary in COMM 0004.
(I have added the next Message Board topic to our course page. You may want to take the time to ensure all of them are completed today!)
Labels: BCIT, Internet, television
Thursday, January 24, 2008
It Can Be Good to Say No
Ahhh .. I've got a blank screen but a little extra time to fill it! I am sitting in front of my Technical Communications class as they're hard at work on their midterm exams. The class is small so as well as already correcting the writing section of the test, I've gone through a large pile of marking from our recent program placement exams.
I'm very grateful that we can enforce strict standards for entry. A relatively high percentage of potential students are told they're not ready for our upgrading courses. We can afford to be picky and choose only those whom we feel will be able to advance rapidly through our classes and into regular, BCIT programs. We are able to better serve the students with whom we work.
I've mentioned the idea before but will add again that I cannot help but contrast our situation to private ESL training programs. No matter how professionally managed, most all private sector schools, for financial reasons alone, are forced to accept just about anything that walks by. This can create conflicts that affect the program efficiency and its eventual results.
I'm very grateful that we can enforce strict standards for entry. A relatively high percentage of potential students are told they're not ready for our upgrading courses. We can afford to be picky and choose only those whom we feel will be able to advance rapidly through our classes and into regular, BCIT programs. We are able to better serve the students with whom we work.
I've mentioned the idea before but will add again that I cannot help but contrast our situation to private ESL training programs. No matter how professionally managed, most all private sector schools, for financial reasons alone, are forced to accept just about anything that walks by. This can create conflicts that affect the program efficiency and its eventual results.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Late Entry
My supervisor called me this morning to ask if I'd help give our department's placement test that took place a 6:00 pm. My regular COMM 0004 class was from 1:00 to 5:00, so as long as I was going to be on campus, I said I would stay later. My class had a writing assignment for part of the afternoon. As soon as we'd finished, I went over to a main building to search for the location of the room where the placement test would take place.Generally we have these exams in a large, stadium-style room. Today, however, sixty students had to squeeze into a normal classroom. We had to run around and find a number of extra chairs. It seems as if we were packed wall to wall. Still things went well after we had checked everybody in. I stayed until after the grammar section. As soon as the potential students were busy on the writing section, I came home.
This is why my blog entry is a little late tonight.
Labels: BCIT
Thursday, January 03, 2008
Eagerly Awaiting
Not going into the Institute has offered a welcomed break over the holidays. I am almost totally recharged for classes which begin next week. I taught a great deal in 2007 and look forward to cutting back on the number of hours this year.
On Monday, I'll start teaching for just four afternoons per week. My COMM 0004 course will run for five weeks from 1:00 to 5:00 pm. I like having enough seniority to be pretty sure of the classes I'll get. Now all I have to do is convince BCIT Parking to provide me a space close to my office and teaching locations.
Labels: BCIT
Monday, December 10, 2007
Eliminating Stress
Well it's Monday evening, so I've started this entry from the BCIT computer lab. I'm with some students enrolled in COMM 0031 which is a course for practicing oral communications. Thankfully, we're in the lab. I can make use of special listening software here. I can also have the students practice recording answers on the computers. This is handy as they'll be officially taking the BCIT Spoken English Assessment right here on Wednesday. This will give the chance to practice with the microphone and headphones.
Earlier today, I corrected all the final examinations from my weekend course. It feels really good to speak about both the intensive COMM 0004 courses in past tense now. During November, I felt quite a bit of stress dealing with forty students at the same time and it surely provided me with a lot of correction.
I can't help but think how great my job is though. I really appreciate the project-like environment of taking on individual contracts. There is clear definition of the beginning, middle, and end to each course. I take preparation for my classes very seriously. I keep a very friendly environment in the classroom but I do accumulate a fair amount of stress doing the housekeeping end of things. So stress builds but then completely dissipates. For example, tomorrow I have absolutely no appointments. Better yet, there're no assignments to be corrected nor planning to be done.
I need lots of down time and some has finally come to visit. I look forward to walking around town with a camera. I did manage a one-hour walk to the Quay today.
Earlier today, I corrected all the final examinations from my weekend course. It feels really good to speak about both the intensive COMM 0004 courses in past tense now. During November, I felt quite a bit of stress dealing with forty students at the same time and it surely provided me with a lot of correction.
I can't help but think how great my job is though. I really appreciate the project-like environment of taking on individual contracts. There is clear definition of the beginning, middle, and end to each course. I take preparation for my classes very seriously. I keep a very friendly environment in the classroom but I do accumulate a fair amount of stress doing the housekeeping end of things. So stress builds but then completely dissipates. For example, tomorrow I have absolutely no appointments. Better yet, there're no assignments to be corrected nor planning to be done.
I need lots of down time and some has finally come to visit. I look forward to walking around town with a camera. I did manage a one-hour walk to the Quay today.
Labels: BCIT, feelings, New Westminster
Saturday, December 08, 2007
Writing Final Exams
I always feel a little sad at the end of a class. There's a natural bond created during these short, intensive PELD (Professional English Lanugage Development) courses. We're obligated to spend a lot of time together in a relatively short period of time.
Today, we completed the weekend course I've been with since the end of October. I will miss this group. They were clever and memorable. I should be accustomed to these feelings by now but they still catch me by surprise. It shouldn't happen though. I've taught seven intensive courses as well as a few different classes in 2007.
Remind me to take on a bit less next year.
Sunday, December 02, 2007
Neither Snow nor Sleet ...
Upon registering for a course at BCIT, one is automatically assigned a life-time email address. The beauty of the system is an instructor can send a message to his /her entire class by clicking a single link. When I take on a new class, I send a welcoming message before I've even had a chance to meet the class face-to-face. There's no need for me to enter email addresses in order to communicate with the group. Of course, this ease of use means that I frequently post message. After getting home, I sent this one to the students I met with today:
I'd like to thank those who braved the snow today in order to meet. I appreciate your determination. I hope everybody I saw today arrived home safely. By the time I left, it was turning to rain near BCIT, but when I made my way to New Westminster, the roads were in very poor condition.
It seems that three students were unable to make it to their oral presentations. I will expect we can listen to them next Saturday as we'll be in the computer lab. I will schedule the presentations for AFTER the final exam.
Remember, your final exam takes only three hours. We will be doing review work and course evaluations in the morning. (I am sure you have already checked the files area and have seen the daily schedules, right?)
It probably doesn't make a lot of sense to review for the final exams by re-reading the entire modules. There are important pages in most of the modules that did include the 'special sentence structures' though. You might find it useful to review those. Also, you should review your returned assignments. Did you fill in the error-correction sheet which held all errors for Assignments 1 to 5?
I want you to remember to write clearly and concisely on your final examination. Give examples and clarifications. Also don't forget to showcase the things we learned in the COMM 0004 course. Don't translate phrases from your language but keep your plans and sentence structures in English only. Lastly, finish very early, so you'll have time for useful review. If I need to grab the paper from you at the end of the time, you will not have had the chance to read through and locate your errors. I'd rather you find them and fix them, before I see your papers!
Good luck. Have a good week.
==Dennis
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Tell Us Something New
This afternoon around half of my students gave their course presentations during class. In the COMM 0004 courses, I have been having the students take on the same topic. Over the years, I've learned a tremendous amount of new information and today's presentations were no exception. I guess one way someone can be a life-long learner is by teaching!Students seem to be increasingly adept at using MS PowerPoint.
Here's the assignment:
Required Topic on a Local Business
Each student in our class must pick a business that he/she has used while in Vancouver. It may sell a product or provide a service. Concepts and terms used in other college-level courses are expected and encouraged. In other words, your classmates are professionals, so make sure your presentation is too. In advance of the presentation dates, I will ask you to write a memo where you’ll state the name of the business you’ve chosen and the topic you will discuss about it.
Research for this project must prove the presenter has used primary and secondary research techniques. Every presenter should draw up suitable questions and interview someone connected with the business. Researching information from the Internet only would not be considered suitable preparation.
Necessary Length
Each presentation will last eight to ten minutes. Additional time will be used for a question-and-answer period. All questions must be answered fluently.
Use of Visual Aids
A minimum of two overhead-transparencies must be used during the talk. I may be able to arrange lab time for those who wish to use MS PowerPoint; however, you’ll have to let me know in advance of your presentation. Many students use one for an outline that helps to introduce the talk.
Group Evaluation Procedures
Please note that you will be ‘ranking’ your classmates on a ‘scale’. The lower end of the scale means that improvement is needed; whereas, the top of the scale means that the person was truly outstanding. Students will fill in each area as the person is giving his/her presentation. Giving honest and useful appraisal is an important skill that will be useful in many of your future jobs.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
There's Nothing to Fear
I recently got a very scary message in my BCIT inbox. I suppose whether something is frightening or not depends a lot on personal perception. In this case, the message was from the Institute's Special Events Office. Okay, so that doesn't sound too awful. It was actually an invitation to a Staff Service & Recognition Ceremony. Even that hardly qualifies as hair-raising. Wait, the content provided the spine-chilling news. A fancy, formal font under the splashy logo, read:
You may still be wondering why the announcement gave me the jitters. It's simple, really. When I was growing up, I always thought that a person's career lasted 40 years. I reckoned after four decades of work, employees ought to take it easy by sitting in a rocking chair on the front porch. I am concerned because I've been at BCIT for a decade. This is on top of another sixteen years of working abroad. Yikes, BCIT alone represents a quarter of my total, self-imposed limit. This is enough to frighten anyone, isn't it?
Dr. Verna Magee Shepherd, a/ President
cordially invites you to attend
The Annual
Staff Service and Recognition Ceremony
In honour of all BCIT employees who have reached
10 and 15 year milestones in 2007
Tuesday, December 11
1:00 – 2:00 pm
SE2 -The Great Hall
Annual All Staff Christmas Reception to follow ceremony
in the Town Square Café
Thursday, November 22, 2007
My Favourite Class
Of course, the title may be a little untrue. I always say that about the class I'm currently with. However, I should add that I usually believe it too. Today, my afternoon group met in the library for a one-hour assignment. On the way back to the classroom, we stopped in order to take this class photo.
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
You Can Say That Again
I was chatting with a colleague in the PELD (Professional English Language Development) office before class this afternoon. I was excitedly showing how I've begun copying audio files to the BCIT share-out drive. Each course at the Institute is provided with general storage. It is easily available from any computer on campus by locating the J: drive. Additionally, students can access the data on the Internet via a web browser and their student ID / password. This got me thinking how much more accessible language study materials are now because of Internet access.
Once upon a time, when I began teaching, students just had access to the materials that were handed out by the instructor. Especially when overseas, additional information had to be purchased in the market. Now, getting examples of a
new, target language are as close as a search engine. (I've decided to try to eliminate the habit of using Google as a verb.)
Today, I was tossing around mp3 files rather than text. Podcasts have made excellent audio available in a manageable, on-demand format. There really isn't any corollary in analog form. I remember using cassettes but the audio was held captive inside a plastic case. All students needed to listen at the same time and in the same location. Even if I knew a specific radio program would be of interest to my students, most weren't taped simply because it was too much of a hassle.
Once upon a time, when I began teaching, students just had access to the materials that were handed out by the instructor. Especially when overseas, additional information had to be purchased in the market. Now, getting examples of a
new, target language are as close as a search engine. (I've decided to try to eliminate the habit of using Google as a verb.)Today, I was tossing around mp3 files rather than text. Podcasts have made excellent audio available in a manageable, on-demand format. There really isn't any corollary in analog form. I remember using cassettes but the audio was held captive inside a plastic case. All students needed to listen at the same time and in the same location. Even if I knew a specific radio program would be of interest to my students, most weren't taped simply because it was too much of a hassle.
Labels: BCIT, podcasts, technology
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Who's the Third Person?
Jaques:All the world's a stage,
And all the men and women merely players;
They have their exits and their entrances,
And one man in his time plays many parts,
His acts being seven ages.
As You Like It Act 2, scene 7, 139–143
Today I met Dennis the teacher again.
He's been on vacation for three months and overseas for three weeks of that. Furthermore, he hasn't taken on a weekend course for quite a few years. Teaching a seven hour class is really tiring for him and he realizes he's going to do a repeat of the show tomorrow. He enjoyed getting back in front of a classroom though.
It's really funny as I'd forgotten the skills Dennis has and the exciting environment he creates.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Will I Get Hoarse?
Today, I spent a sizable chunk of the day at my office at the BC Institute of Technology. I knew that I'd start classes next week. What I didn't know until yesterday, is that I shall also be spending the next 5 1/2 weekends there too.My boss called to ask if I could pick up two classes during November. I reluctantly agreed. I surely want to make things easy for our department. My usual class will meet weekday afternoons. Additionally, my weekend course runs from 8:30 to 4:30 on Saturday and Sundays! I'm not sure how educationally or physiologically sound that schedule is. Yet, I've taught it in the past and was shocked to see the great progress the students made. It just goes to show how extremely motivated some of our Professional English Language Development students can be!
I was just saying in this blog this week how I had been out of the classroom for three months. I think it's strange that I'm going to be practically living in one from the month of November. It some strange way, this feels like the hangover for being so relaxed since the beginning of August!
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Schools That Can't Say No!
I went to the campus today in order to give placement exams. We were in the testing room from 9:30 to noon. First, a colleague and I checked in the potential, new students. We then administered the grammar and writing components. We were able to correct the multiple-choice grammar answers during the testing. It was about noon when the students had finished.
After that, my colleague and I packed all the materials and took them back to the office. Next, I spent about three hours going through 64 writings alone. They will be marked by other staff tomorrow. We use these tests for identifying proper placement into one of the four course levels. Our program used to be known as Pre-Entry Communication but is now called Professional English Language Development.
I am very proud of the fact we are able to be honest in our assessments. One advantage of working in a public institution is that we have no pressure to accept students who aren't ready for our program. In fact, there are times when a quarter, or even one third, of those we test are advised to return after they've had some additional language experience and exposure.
Turning away such large numbers of students is not possible in privately-owned, for-profit, ESL schools. Many of these institutions must accept students, even if those learners do not have the necessary skills for a course. This is one reason I have little faith in private, language schools. In addition, the teachers salaries may be substandard due to the need for strong company earnings. Although students might not be aware that the instructors are not well-paid, everybody easily understands one truly gets what one pays for.
After that, my colleague and I packed all the materials and took them back to the office. Next, I spent about three hours going through 64 writings alone. They will be marked by other staff tomorrow. We use these tests for identifying proper placement into one of the four course levels. Our program used to be known as Pre-Entry Communication but is now called Professional English Language Development.
I am very proud of the fact we are able to be honest in our assessments. One advantage of working in a public institution is that we have no pressure to accept students who aren't ready for our program. In fact, there are times when a quarter, or even one third, of those we test are advised to return after they've had some additional language experience and exposure.
Turning away such large numbers of students is not possible in privately-owned, for-profit, ESL schools. Many of these institutions must accept students, even if those learners do not have the necessary skills for a course. This is one reason I have little faith in private, language schools. In addition, the teachers salaries may be substandard due to the need for strong company earnings. Although students might not be aware that the instructors are not well-paid, everybody easily understands one truly gets what one pays for.
Monday, July 30, 2007
Working Smarter (and Less)
I had all my final exam papers corrected by one o'clock in the afternoon. Nowadays, I always use BCIT's online grade-book during the term. In that way, students can check marks online as the course progresses. I stopped keeping track on Excel spreadsheets a few terms back. That's how I kept track right from my first class at Burnaby in 1997.
This means that I've been signing teaching contracts with the British Columbia Institute of Technology for ten years! I've never worked anyplace for such a long time. It sounds a little scary. People work only four or four and a half decades at best but I've just finished one.
Back to what I was starting to say, an advantage of the online grade book shines when it comes to completing final marks. I simply click on a few links and all the data is automatically calculated and transferred. I am only required to enter attendance data and a special form if there were any failed students. Then viola, the job's done. It is sent off to be approved by a supervisor and then electronically proceeds to the registrar.
I like technology a lot, but then I've always chosen only what I feel makes my life easier. For example, I manage to completely avoid voice mail at work. My message redirects callers to my cell. If I am busy, I simply don't answer. People who do not have clear boundaries may end up stressed out by the additional demands placed on them by technology. I'd rather think I use it only to lessen my responsibilities or, at least, become a little more efficient.
This means that I've been signing teaching contracts with the British Columbia Institute of Technology for ten years! I've never worked anyplace for such a long time. It sounds a little scary. People work only four or four and a half decades at best but I've just finished one.
Back to what I was starting to say, an advantage of the online grade book shines when it comes to completing final marks. I simply click on a few links and all the data is automatically calculated and transferred. I am only required to enter attendance data and a special form if there were any failed students. Then viola, the job's done. It is sent off to be approved by a supervisor and then electronically proceeds to the registrar.
I like technology a lot, but then I've always chosen only what I feel makes my life easier. For example, I manage to completely avoid voice mail at work. My message redirects callers to my cell. If I am busy, I simply don't answer. People who do not have clear boundaries may end up stressed out by the additional demands placed on them by technology. I'd rather think I use it only to lessen my responsibilities or, at least, become a little more efficient.
Labels: BCIT, opinions, software, technology
Monday, July 23, 2007
Being Paid to Spy
During the evening classes, my students are often involved in group study. As we meet in a very up-to-date computer lab, they also have many projects where they have to work with CALL (Computer Assisted Language Learning) software. Pronunciation Power is a useful program that really can provide results. Another program, Focus on Grammar is a great deal more interesting than it sounds because it has all the skill areas included in a simple interface. I like to use commercial programs for teaching but they often are not necessary in order to make use of the equipment.
I frequently use the Internet to have my students do more normal things but add an educational goal. For example right now, they have scoured the Internet for a picture they'd like to describe. Next, they are going to open Creative's WaveStudio and describe the photo for ninety seconds. Lastly, they'll save the photo and the audio file in a special class folder so others can listen and view the results.
All the while, I can comfortably sit at the instructor's computer in front of the room. This is rare as I'm usually all over a classroom when teaching. Presently, from the front desk, I can call up what is happening on every screen in the room. The program is called NetSupport School and I've found that spying is rather fun!
I frequently use the Internet to have my students do more normal things but add an educational goal. For example right now, they have scoured the Internet for a picture they'd like to describe. Next, they are going to open Creative's WaveStudio and describe the photo for ninety seconds. Lastly, they'll save the photo and the audio file in a special class folder so others can listen and view the results.
All the while, I can comfortably sit at the instructor's computer in front of the room. This is rare as I'm usually all over a classroom when teaching. Presently, from the front desk, I can call up what is happening on every screen in the room. The program is called NetSupport School and I've found that spying is rather fun!
Labels: BCIT, computer lab, software, technology
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
What are You?
Today, I've got to go into BCIT a little bit earlier than usual. I have to meet with a colleague in order to learn about marking the BCIT Test of Spoken English. It's funny how ideas about a career can often change throughout one's life.I would venture a guess that the peak years of an employee's productivity are between 28 and 38. Well, I think I'm using myself as an example for this statement. Anything much before that initial age denotes a time where an employee is still finding himself. Anything past the latter indicates a time when an employee should have had the chance to begin straightening out his priorities. By his forties, if all is on track, he should be attempting to have a more balanced existence. Remember, that peak decade doesn't really mean one's work is constructive or will necessarily lead to important results; it simply means one is willing to work too long and hard. Again, I guess I'm talking about myself.
My most basic belief still holds true though. If a person, irrespective of age, is defining himself though his work, he should have his head examined.
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
A Link's Enough to Fulfill the Obligation
I'm very afraid. Although the blog entries here stretch back to September of 2003, I know that I must never skip a single day. If that were to happen the whole project might fall like a house of cards!
Rather than face that possibility, I have promised myself never to miss one. It doesn't matter that I could be tired. Having nothing to say is no excuse either. Even on those rare days in my life when I'm too busy, I must still take the time to add something.
Even though all three maladies are currently affecting me, here's a link. As I'm typing this in the computer lab at BCIT, I thought I should allow a visitor to stop for a virtual visit too. Just click on the image to go to www.bcit.ca.
Rather than face that possibility, I have promised myself never to miss one. It doesn't matter that I could be tired. Having nothing to say is no excuse either. Even on those rare days in my life when I'm too busy, I must still take the time to add something.
Even though all three maladies are currently affecting me, here's a link. As I'm typing this in the computer lab at BCIT, I thought I should allow a visitor to stop for a virtual visit too. Just click on the image to go to www.bcit.ca.
Labels: BCIT, blogging, computer lab
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Mad Hatter?
Thursday, June 07, 2007
On the Fly ...
For decades, I've been doing school work on my home computer, but only recently have I been doing the reverse. I am logged onto the BCIT network now.
I first bought a $300 Radio Shack TRS-80 in 1980. I don't think that I would've even dreamed there'd be so much hardware on the planet in just two and a half decades. Bill talked about having one of these suckers on every desk, but it's obvious we surpassed that goal. How many personal computers are there per capita in North America? (That's a question I can probably answer in a matter of minutes after I exit www.blogger.com and get to a search engine.)
It is time again for my library exercise. I'm down in the COMPUTER COMMONS. I take every class for an hour-long project in the library on the Burnaby campus. As I generally teach 5-week, intensive courses, I find myself here nearly every month. I do like the atmosphere in libraries.
A few of my Communications students would never set foot in this building were it not for this assignment. At this point in my course, we hit materials that emphasize the use of comparative structures. They are here to observe a location that meets some criteria for successful studying. In this week's assignment, they will compare their notes written here with those from another studying location.
I first bought a $300 Radio Shack TRS-80 in 1980. I don't think that I would've even dreamed there'd be so much hardware on the planet in just two and a half decades. Bill talked about having one of these suckers on every desk, but it's obvious we surpassed that goal. How many personal computers are there per capita in North America? (That's a question I can probably answer in a matter of minutes after I exit www.blogger.com and get to a search engine.) It is time again for my library exercise. I'm down in the COMPUTER COMMONS. I take every class for an hour-long project in the library on the Burnaby campus. As I generally teach 5-week, intensive courses, I find myself here nearly every month. I do like the atmosphere in libraries.
A few of my Communications students would never set foot in this building were it not for this assignment. At this point in my course, we hit materials that emphasize the use of comparative structures. They are here to observe a location that meets some criteria for successful studying. In this week's assignment, they will compare their notes written here with those from another studying location.
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Started in Lab 201
I probably won't finish this entry until after I get home. However, as I have an extra minute or two here in the computer lab, I thought I could, at least, get a head start. Now comes the difficult part ... figuring out what to say!
These extra hours will seem nice when the paychecks roll in. It's actually a pleasure to work with these students while focusing on listening / speaking skills. The courses I usually teach are predominately aimed at improving writing stills. The added advantage of working with computers makes the class interesting too. They work with video and audio files and create voice clips during every class. The lab has flat screen monitors and is easily configured for group work too. It's clearly a unique and useful opportunity.
Unfortunately, I see the additional cash as found money as I wasn't counting on it. So, it seems as if I'm obligated to go out and blow it on something I might otherwise not. Should I buy a digital SLR camera?
These extra hours will seem nice when the paychecks roll in. It's actually a pleasure to work with these students while focusing on listening / speaking skills. The courses I usually teach are predominately aimed at improving writing stills. The added advantage of working with computers makes the class interesting too. They work with video and audio files and create voice clips during every class. The lab has flat screen monitors and is easily configured for group work too. It's clearly a unique and useful opportunity.Unfortunately, I see the additional cash as found money as I wasn't counting on it. So, it seems as if I'm obligated to go out and blow it on something I might otherwise not. Should I buy a digital SLR camera?
Labels: BCIT, camera, computer lab
Monday, June 04, 2007
Another Manic Monday
Is life a bowl of cherries? On occasion, there has to be some answer that involves it being in the pits, don't you think? It's Monday and lately they've seemed quite manic. How come life now mimics a 1980's, big-hair, pop song title?
Things are so much greyer and more depressing than during the past weekend. It just can't be my own little bad mood, as my afternoon class was clearly in the dumps too. Rather than the worsening weather maybe it's the fact many people associate this time of year with finishing up academic pursuits. I'm sure we feel that we're nowhere near the end of anything today. In reality, I'm only at the midway point in both classes I'm teaching at the present time.
I guess I wanted to let it be known that I don't always blog about how gloriously happy I am. The blog is not full of kittens and cotton candy. I can still go all philosophical, if not postal, on you though.
Without the downs, the ups wouldn't actually be up, would they?
Things are so much greyer and more depressing than during the past weekend. It just can't be my own little bad mood, as my afternoon class was clearly in the dumps too. Rather than the worsening weather maybe it's the fact many people associate this time of year with finishing up academic pursuits. I'm sure we feel that we're nowhere near the end of anything today. In reality, I'm only at the midway point in both classes I'm teaching at the present time.
I guess I wanted to let it be known that I don't always blog about how gloriously happy I am. The blog is not full of kittens and cotton candy. I can still go all philosophical, if not postal, on you though.
Without the downs, the ups wouldn't actually be up, would they?
Labels: BCIT
Thursday, May 31, 2007
All in a Day's Work
There was a time when I used to catch up on some reading while giving an exam. Today, I'm in the lab and my students have an additional 25 minutes to work on their midterm examinations. This type of intense writing can make anyone tired and I can see by their expressions that the work is taking its toll.
Today, while they've been busy I've been creating some teaching materials. Actually, I've been viewing segments from How It's Made and making a short comprehension worksheet to go with each one. If you look at the sample, you'll see it doesn't look as if it'd be taxing to create. After doing a few though, I'm wondering what expression is on my face.
Labels: BCIT
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Just Another Wednesday
On rare occasions, I face this screen with a touch of writer's block. It's not that I don't have anything to say, as I have an opinion on just about everything. It's also not as if I have run out of personal experiences; I don't plan on doing that for quite some time.Some days, I am truly too occupied with other things. For example, I spent the morning correcting assignments, the afternoon with one class, and will spend the evening with another. All the while, the best weather of the year occurred outside the buildings in which I was holed up.
Many regular classes at BCIT are finished. I think I've only run across one other group in the entire NE 1 building. It's a bit spooky seeing empty corridors. It's weird hearing one's footstep echo down the halls. It's nice to know, however, that some people are probably out there enjoying the balmy temperatures and abundant sunshine.
Monday, May 28, 2007
Being Authentic Legally
Today was one of those days with 6.5 hours in the classroom. That gives little time to formulate a good entry for the blog. I thought I just might add an idea of how using technology while teaching may affect copyright.
I'd suggest that good teachers have always brought the real world into their classrooms. Photocopiers made it easy to carry in a relevant snippet from the day's newspaper. Using authentic materials is not only easy but often quite effective.
Now, I am able to copy segments from science programs while watching them on TV. The capture card in my PC is directly connected to an output on the satellite receiver. After getting a number of clips, I have copied to various DVDs for quick, in-class listening comprehension exercises. Now, with our robust computer network at BCIT, I can easily post streaming video segments to the class storage. These could be made available in the Institute's labs or even from a home computer.
There are many educationally sound things I can do. What I'm unsure of is the legality of many of those actions.
I'd suggest that good teachers have always brought the real world into their classrooms. Photocopiers made it easy to carry in a relevant snippet from the day's newspaper. Using authentic materials is not only easy but often quite effective.Now, I am able to copy segments from science programs while watching them on TV. The capture card in my PC is directly connected to an output on the satellite receiver. After getting a number of clips, I have copied to various DVDs for quick, in-class listening comprehension exercises. Now, with our robust computer network at BCIT, I can easily post streaming video segments to the class storage. These could be made available in the Institute's labs or even from a home computer.
There are many educationally sound things I can do. What I'm unsure of is the legality of many of those actions.
Labels: BCIT
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Out of Class at 21:00
Today, I completed teaching my COMM 0004 class at 5:00. I am now on the other side of the campus in my office. In a few minutes, I will walk into NE1 for an evening COMM 0030/31 class. It takes place in a computer lab as we are able to use the equipment for listening and recording speech. There are several software programs specifically designed for pronunciation practice. In addition, we also save and store audio clips about the topics we are reviewing. There's net storage for every class at the Institute. It can be accessed with student ID and password directly from any computer lab or via a browser gateway from any Internet computer.
Labels: BCIT, computer lab, technology
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Learning in Groups
Wouldn't you know! The sunshine is now streaming in the windows and it's going to be 18C degrees today. All those drenched people who tried to start summer over the long weekend have an opportunity to dry out, I guess.It's a tad hard to concentrate on classwork knowing the weather's so nice beyond the window sash. My current group just started last week. If the first assignments are any indication, they have quite well-developed skills. The group is very small with just thirteen students and this seems nice as I've taught some terms that are double this size. They do demand a lot of attention though. I don't mind that. After all, my attention is what they're paying for. Still, it is amazing how tired four hours of class can make me. It's not physical rather I get tired from answering all the questions and trying to stay one step ahead of them.
I look back on my own time on the desk side of the classroom, and wonder what teachers thought of the various groups in which I learned. It's hard to believe how the quality of one's educational experiences are affected by those around one. It works for both the better and worse, I suspect.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Yawn!
I really enjoy the additional, new course I teach on Monday and Wednesday evenings. Rather than focusing on writing skills, it emphasises listening and speaking. We get to interact via computers a lot. The time just flies by during the activities. The students seem to have a variety of backgrounds which can always make things interesting too.If there is a problem, it'd have to be the fact it doesn't get over till 9 pm. Teaching the number of hours isn't hard; it's just diffucult for me to wind down for bedtime. I kept teaching in the dreams of my shallow sleep for most of last night.
When did I lose my take-it-easy, easy-going attitude towards life?
Labels: BCIT, computer lab, students
Friday, May 04, 2007
Beside the Transparency Projector
The afternoon started off with a rather ordinary-looking, summary activity. Yet now, I've spent the better part of the last two and a half hours correcting and entering my students' scores from the last assignment into my electronic gradebook. I also spent this time checking through the online message board and evaluating the topics they answered this term. That mark, too, went right into the online form. My students are busy writing the final exam right now. I can almost smell the burning ink from their pens as they are hectically trying to finish before 5:00 pm. So, the combination of today's data plus the previous numbers will allow me to enter the online grades later this evening. I delight in the knowledge that even if I don't get them in tonight, I could finish up from Los Angeles tomorrow night. This is just another reason to love the Internet.
Labels: BCIT, travel planning
Thursday, May 03, 2007
Changing with the Times
There was a moment during yesterday evening's course when I was struck by how much teaching had changed since I started doing it in the early 80's. This realization came as students in a computer lab at BCIT were recording audio files. The students are members of a course called, Oral Fluency for Business and Technical Communication. All twenty-one students were speaking into their headsets. They were summarizing their English-learning experiences and stating what they hoped to get out of the 50-hour course.
At first watching them, apparently talking to themselves, seemed a little bizarre. Yet today, from any computer with Net access, we can access the files via a secure connection to the Institutes's network storage server. So, any analogy to old skool cassette tapes is entirely inappropriate.
Labels: BCIT, computer lab
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Rushing Around
I've only a second today for an entry. I'm on break on my laptop. After my COMM 0004, I will head over to the office to eat and do a little prep for my evening COMM 0030/31 evening class. Wait, I forgot to bring along my salad from the refrigerator! I'll have to grab something from the cafeteria. The problem is it's much too tempting to pick out something greasy.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Having Been Volunteered
My regular class finishes up this week. I will give the final exam on Friday. Then on Saturday, we fly to Los Angeles for a week of vacation.I am not quite sure why I accepted to teach a new evening class too. My supervisor called on the weekend in an effort to find an instructor willing to take it on. I am not really sure why I agreed other than it seemed like it was a way to help out the PELD department. My COMM 0030/31 class starts tonight! It will run from 6:30 to 9:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays. I'll need a substitute next week, but will be back working this extra schedule until mid-July.
I love the rush of getting a new class. Yet, as it is a new class for me to teach, I am feeling a little more stress than usual. I don't even have the course outlines printed out yet!
Labels: BCIT
Thursday, April 26, 2007
The Present is Good
I'm in the computer lab with my class again. I would never give up this type of work for another. I'm having one of those days where my job seems like a piece of cake. Don't misunderstand me; it's not easy. Today, however, class has been well organized and my students responsive. I feel more like I'm sharing expertise than teaching content. If you ask me, I'll generally say that whichever class I'm currently teaching is the best one I've ever taught. Realistically, classes differ wildly in motivation, cohesion, and aptitude. So, to always believe I'm working with my favourites sounds a bit whorish. This profession, perhaps the second oldest, does all really boil down to personal interaction though. As I'm intensively involved with students for sixteen hours a week, I think the world of them. Or rather, for the duration of the course, they become part of my world. This probably explains why I always favour my present group over past ones.
Labels: BCIT, computer lab, feelings
Friday, April 20, 2007
What's Your Excuse?
I'm happy today's Friday as I haven't got class. Although it seems we'll have an instructors' meeting a week from today, I've got no obligations at the moment. That, of course, doesn't mean I'll accomplish anything useful today. If the weather stays good, I could wash the truck and then wax it. I enjoy rubbing wax on aging painted metal and I like buffing it off by hand too. I've yakked about this before, so I needn't rehash old ideas. Yet, I found myself in a new situation yesterday. I can mention it here.
In the afternoon, my students wrote an exam for 2.5 hours. During the intial hours, I completed all my possible class-related busy work. I had a few spare minutes. As we were in the computer lab, I checked my email. That was okay as I had messages to answer from my supervisor. I added a discussion question to the BCIT homepage for my class. Doing so was certainly within bounds of work protocol.
Then, I meandered over the the www.futureshop.ca site. I decided I could use some additional duel-layer blank DVDs. I ordered a 25-pack that was specially priced. Is it acceptable to buy something online while on the clock at work?
I quickly worked to ease my moral conscience. I thoroughly convinced myself that my actions were just part of Bill's theory frictionless commerce. Furthermore, I reasoned, people have been making personal phone calls from work for decades and decades. As it turns out, I'm as good at thinking up excuses as my students.
In the afternoon, my students wrote an exam for 2.5 hours. During the intial hours, I completed all my possible class-related busy work. I had a few spare minutes. As we were in the computer lab, I checked my email. That was okay as I had messages to answer from my supervisor. I added a discussion question to the BCIT homepage for my class. Doing so was certainly within bounds of work protocol. Then, I meandered over the the www.futureshop.ca site. I decided I could use some additional duel-layer blank DVDs. I ordered a 25-pack that was specially priced. Is it acceptable to buy something online while on the clock at work?
I quickly worked to ease my moral conscience. I thoroughly convinced myself that my actions were just part of Bill's theory frictionless commerce. Furthermore, I reasoned, people have been making personal phone calls from work for decades and decades. As it turns out, I'm as good at thinking up excuses as my students.
Labels: BCIT
Monday, April 02, 2007
Did I Have a Few Days Off?
This is the second day of a new month and the third start of a new class in 2007. I'm looking forward to meeting my new students at the Burnaby campus at 1:00 pm. At first the four-hour classes seemed a lot, but after years of practice, it no longer seems difficult. In January it was dark at 5:00 pm, but now the days are substantially longer.Whereas generally my afternoon classes fill to capacity, today's appears to have fewer students. This fact is very welcome as we'll have opportunities to do things not possible when there are over twenty students.
Labels: BCIT
Monday, March 26, 2007
Free, at Last!
I'm officially on one of those glorious weeks between teaching the intensive PELD (Professional English Language Development) courses at the British Columbia Institute of Technology.
The theory might be a bit more appealing than the facts though. For one, I'm without a contract this week; consequently, I will get no paycheck for it. Moreover, I have spent the better part of the day, so far, doing the final grades for the class that just finished. So, I really have more in the order of four days to do as I please. Wait! I don't want this to sound like complaining. I'm actually very satisfied with the scenario.
I have found recent changes have also altered the end-of-term activities in a positive way. This is the first time in my ten years at BCIT where I haven't kept an Excel spreadsheet of grades. Not only is the grade-book automated so that students can gain access to their scores during the term, but the final grade admission is now totally web-based too. No longer do I have to run to the office to turn in marks to my Admin. Assistant in duplicate.
All final marks were calculated and carried over from the online grades component. I simply entered all additional data on the forms from home. All attendance data, and special reports were included via secure connection to the institute's site. After it all met my approval, I just clicked a button to send it for verification and acceptance.
Life gets better and better! I have achieved the same sense of freedom that used to come after handing over the photocopied set by hand. But this time, I didn't need to take the time to schlep to the Burnaby campus.
The theory might be a bit more appealing than the facts though. For one, I'm without a contract this week; consequently, I will get no paycheck for it. Moreover, I have spent the better part of the day, so far, doing the final grades for the class that just finished. So, I really have more in the order of four days to do as I please. Wait! I don't want this to sound like complaining. I'm actually very satisfied with the scenario.
I have found recent changes have also altered the end-of-term activities in a positive way. This is the first time in my ten years at BCIT where I haven't kept an Excel spreadsheet of grades. Not only is the grade-book automated so that students can gain access to their scores during the term, but the final grade admission is now totally web-based too. No longer do I have to run to the office to turn in marks to my Admin. Assistant in duplicate.
All final marks were calculated and carried over from the online grades component. I simply entered all additional data on the forms from home. All attendance data, and special reports were included via secure connection to the institute's site. After it all met my approval, I just clicked a button to send it for verification and acceptance.
Life gets better and better! I have achieved the same sense of freedom that used to come after handing over the photocopied set by hand. But this time, I didn't need to take the time to schlep to the Burnaby campus.
Labels: BCIT, technology
Friday, March 23, 2007
You Can't Pick Your Classmates
I'm nearly cross-eyed right now. I've been correcting assignments while my class is taking the final examination. I've also checked and marked the listening comprehension part of today's test. This means I've stared at a lot of paper this afternoon.
Now there's just 25 minutes of class left, so I finally have a chance to look around the room. I will probably not see many of these people again. That seems strange as they have been such a big part of my life for the past five weeks. These intensive courses really do cause a sort of instant bonding. Sixteen hours per week is a lot of time for a college-level course.
What I'm thinking of now has more to do with the combination of personalities in the room rather than the length of time we've had together. Each group takes on its own unique characteristics. The sum really is greater than the whole. As a student, one never really thinks about how much luck is involved in the selection of people who are classmates. I suppose it's basically the same phenomenon in the workplace or, for that matter, life in general.
Now there's just 25 minutes of class left, so I finally have a chance to look around the room. I will probably not see many of these people again. That seems strange as they have been such a big part of my life for the past five weeks. These intensive courses really do cause a sort of instant bonding. Sixteen hours per week is a lot of time for a college-level course.
What I'm thinking of now has more to do with the combination of personalities in the room rather than the length of time we've had together. Each group takes on its own unique characteristics. The sum really is greater than the whole. As a student, one never really thinks about how much luck is involved in the selection of people who are classmates. I suppose it's basically the same phenomenon in the workplace or, for that matter, life in general.
Friday, March 16, 2007
Gettin'em to CLB Level 8
I spent the afternoon in a department meeting at BCIT. It's good to get together to talk on teaching issues. Today, we had several speakers provide information on the Canadian Language Benchmarks. We can decide how we wish to use the information.I don't want to say I'm jaded because of the negative connotations. In fact, it is gratifying having been involved in the same profession for so long. I started learning about teaching thirty years ago. A good instructor most always has good skills. I'm also sure there is a great deal of art in the process too. Although I've always earned my living teaching English to non-native speakers, the interactions that take place in a classroom still seem a bit magical to me.
Labels: BCIT
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
During the Heat of Battle
I've been walking around the classroom so much my feet hurt. Today, by chance, I even have on jogging shoes. The students are writing. They need to make a simple set of instructions, and then make a process paragraph from it.
Although this sounds simple, it never proves to be. Just making the instructions with all the hints we learned takes time. It's sometimes hard to be simple. They've each chosen their own topics but concise, action-oriented imperative verbs are not always a part of everyday language. It's also tough picking verbs that can be changed to passive in the paragraph. Some work while others don't. For example:
Remove the lid of the pan. The lid of the pan is removed.
Wait for the water to boil. The water is waited for to boil.
I don't mind answering vocabulary questions. I'd prefer they ask for help than immediately grab their electronic dictionaries. Robert had to learn to lower the car before removing the jack. He is writing about changing a tire. Because she is telling how a dog is washed, Terase needed to know the difference betweeen a brush and a comb. Shao needed to know the past participle for withdraw as he will write the process paragraph about how money is taken from a bank machine.
I've taken a few minutes of break to type this. Class finishes at 5:00 and there's only twelve minutes remaining. I should get back to checking how they're doing.
Although this sounds simple, it never proves to be. Just making the instructions with all the hints we learned takes time. It's sometimes hard to be simple. They've each chosen their own topics but concise, action-oriented imperative verbs are not always a part of everyday language. It's also tough picking verbs that can be changed to passive in the paragraph. Some work while others don't. For example:I don't mind answering vocabulary questions. I'd prefer they ask for help than immediately grab their electronic dictionaries. Robert had to learn to lower the car before removing the jack. He is writing about changing a tire. Because she is telling how a dog is washed, Terase needed to know the difference betweeen a brush and a comb. Shao needed to know the past participle for withdraw as he will write the process paragraph about how money is taken from a bank machine.
I've taken a few minutes of break to type this. Class finishes at 5:00 and there's only twelve minutes remaining. I should get back to checking how they're doing.
Labels: BCIT
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Don't the Brits Say Invigilate?
I'm getting a jump on tomorrow's entry by writing this on Tuesday evening. I'm at a front console in one of BCIT's many computer labs in good ol' NE1. There are two other computer labs being used by our department tonight.This is a new experience for me. Although I have been involved in our program's placement exams for years, it has always been done on paper. Now, we are gathering information to see if www.accuplacer.com can give our department useful information on the proper classes in which to place students.
There was quite a bit of set up involved. First, we had to get here quite early to:
I must say the time is now going swimmingly. I'm able to check the screens when I walk to the back of the lab. It is easy to watch as the students complete each of these sections:log on the BCIT network open the browers and turn off the pop-up blocker enter the Accuplacer site with ID and password open to the correct test introduction, and finally, plug in the headphones and adjust the volume level.
I expect the computerized scoring of first two sections sections will tell us much more than the grammar part of our old paper exams. it may proved to be more accurate too. Trying to correct opscan sheets with a transparancy overlay can be a bit daunting after a really hard day. We will call up the writing and print to verify the actual content but even that will probably be easier than trying to figure out the handwriting.Reading Comprehension Sentence Structures One-hour multi-paragraph writing Listening Comprehension Section.
Overall, doing the placement tests this way seems much more in tune with the goals of BCIT.
Labels: BCIT, computer lab
Friday, March 02, 2007
Group Behavior
Earlier, I spent the afternoon at a special instructors' meeting. We set out to evaluate the materials we are using in our courses. The group started out being quite satisfied with the modules which were produced in-house. Strangely, by the end of the four-hours we'd reversed ourselves and promised to look at professionally-produced text books for something that might fit our program. Many times, I find the decisions made during meetings surprising. That said, I must say it's comforting to have been working with some of the same people from a very long time. In fact, in September, I'll have been teaching at BCIT for ten years. That realization is a bit shocking! I once defined my life in two or three year segments.
Labels: BCIT
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
News from the Trenches
Hooray for Tuesday! The week has gotten off to a fine start. My new students are receptive and eager to study. I'd say this is generally the case. As these courses only last for five weeks, the positive momentum hardly has time to fade.
I decided to carry my notebook around with me at BCIT. Finally, wireless access has been improved over on this side of campus on Royal Oak. I put my computer on the front desk along with the piles of papers near my briefcase. It is handy. I carried the notebook down to the teachers' room and started this entry during break.
When coming back upstairs, I saw others running around with their computers. Several of my students even use them to take notes during class. I suddenly had the notion that my long-held dreams were coming true. Technology has come a long way but, honestly, educational adaptation takes too long. We can log on to a common course page wirelessly from any desk a
I decided to carry my notebook around with me at BCIT. Finally, wireless access has been improved over on this side of campus on Royal Oak. I put my computer on the front desk along with the piles of papers near my briefcase. It is handy. I carried the notebook down to the teachers' room and started this entry during break.When coming back upstairs, I saw others running around with their computers. Several of my students even use them to take notes during class. I suddenly had the notion that my long-held dreams were coming true. Technology has come a long way but, honestly, educational adaptation takes too long. We can log on to a common course page wirelessly from any desk a