I browsed many pages recently looking for just the right sites to begin to build my educational design e- toolbox. I found a few sites that I liked very much. The first site 'The ION network' or Illinois Online Network , provides a comprehensive variety of resources " ION Seeks to Promote the Effective Use of Networked Information Technologies, to Enhance Traditional Classroom Instruction, and to Build the Foundation for Developing, Delivering, and Supporting Online Education Throughout the World." The range of information covers a broad spectrum of online educational resources, blogs, tutorials, and professional development. So whether you are a facilitator looking for asynchronous discussion strategies, or a designer looking for a perspective on instructional design models or learning styles in the online environment , this is the place to look. The site is an academically sponsored site from the University of Illinois and it is a must see for the online educator or administrator.
The e-earning coach is another tool I found in my web travels . This site was created by Connie Malamed and provides the e-designer with a breadth of information and resources for discussion which include: design, understanding a variety of learning issues, and current professional articles. The site provides a nice section for discussion on medias and e-learning 2.0 in general. The RSS feed is available to participate in and stay current with ongoing interaction and new post ,and the site is not specifically focused for the educational institutions, but has a nice open content that appeals and applies to the business and private sector, as well as the academic community. I liked the discussions on using social medias as a learning tool and the emerging "cloud computing" that includes wikis and POD casts and various software tools. Really, check it out . It is user friendly, absolutely usable tools and information, easy to navigate, and inviting to participate (not pretentious or intimidating what-so- ever)
The final link for today is one that I found as a part of the Linkedin social network. If you haven't already set one up, my understanding is that this is one of the foremost networking mediums for professionals. Now I know why. I searched this group for any connections to educational design, and BANG, tons of communities! I think that this venue is emerging and still developing; however, the idea of a community based upon our specific needs as instructional designers is awesome. I have subscribed to Instructional Design & E-Learning Professionals' Group and will continue to participate and monitor the discussions which are relevant to topics of learning, software and media, legislation, and technology trends. This site provides job resources, and great opportunities to build professional connections and networks within the field of instructional design and e- learning.
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