Today I participated in my first webinar. I was sure that when I went to log in, I wouldn’t be able to connect. However, the process couldn’t have been easier or gone more smoothly. I registered a week ago and when I logged on to the site today I could hear and see the information without any problems. I chose to participate in the Lexia webinar for an overview on their reading program. Lexia is a technology based approach to teaching reading skills that I use for students who need extra reading support in the classroom. The program uses differentiated practice, assessment without testing, and targeted instruction. It is very motivational to students because it is colorful, interactive, and engaging. Even though I am already familiar with the program, I learned a few new skills as well as how to participate in a webinar.
Before the Lexia representative named Dawn began, the 11 participants were asked to answer a few poll questions that would help direct the webinar. We were asked if we had used Lexia before and which tutorials we were interested in viewing. We were also instructed how to use the question and answer box which was very similar to instant messaging. Finally, before the talk began, we were asked to download a summary sheet on Lexia version 8 enhancements to share with school staff. Dawn spoke about different Lexia features as she took us through various screens of the program. I learned that the program provides a detailed assessment of each student’s progress. It recommends weekly time needed with Lexia as well as which skills need additional teacher instruction. The newest version can be used with interactive whiteboards and iPhones. Now I feel that I can be more involved with the program by using it to tailor instruction for each student.
I didn’t have any questions to ask during the webinar but a few participants did. The questions only appeared on Dawn’s screen but she would repeat and answer the question for everyone’s benefit. I felt that the webinar combined the best features of online learning and the traditional classroom. I could sit in the comfort of my own home while having immediate access to an expert and I could participate as much or as little as I wanted. The next time I have an opportunity to attend a webinar, I will definitely take advantage of it now that I know how easy it can be.
Ok, just closed out before my post posted! Ugh! The joys of technology. I love webinars and I wish there was more time in the day to participate in them. I often feel they are purposely scheduled at the same exact time when everything else in my life is scheduled, so I do not have a lot of time to listen in on live ones. I do enjoy the collaborative nature of webinars, the freedom they offer as well as the side bar chat that goes along with them. I often walk away with much more than what the speaker has to offer, as the participants offer many resources and perspectives as well. Glad it was a positive experience!
ReplyDeleteI ended up attending a pre-recorded webinar...which was just more practical and convenient since I don't have home access to internet this summer. But while I was watching the presentation, I kept thinking about how much more involved I would have felt had I participated in a live webinar, instead. "Having immediate access to an expert" and being able to ask questions or join in the discussion from the comfort of my own home...this is exactly what I was thinking! I'm glad I was able to get involved in a webinar on my own terms, but next time I'd like to try it live because I have a feeling I'd get a bit more out of it.
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear that your webinar went so well. I agree that sometimes we are surprised when we don't have any technology issues. Ha, Ha....It is amazing on just how much information is out on the web that we can use. It is almost like we need an extra day in the week, just to have the time digest it all. I think we should take the advice from Kim and just try and do bits of it when we have short periods of time.
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