Use Tech for Learning

Watch and Learn

This video will help you choose the best technology for your project, as well as discussing important things to keep in mind when making that decision.

If you do not see the video, please click on the link to view it in a new window or tab (you will leave this page):

Choosing Technology

Top Tips in Choosing Technology

  • Start simple
    If you are new to technology carefully consider the following:

  • Stick to the basics
    While it is tempting to have every new piece of technology, start slowly and build up your experience and confidence. It is better to to try one device or piece of technology, use it appropriately, evaluate its success, and then adjust

  • Use technologies that you are comfortable with:
    Select one(s) that you are already using, or that are easy use or familiarise yourself with

  • Ensure that you are familiar with the technology before the semester commences:
    This allows you to foresee any potential problems, adjust accordingly, and come prepared with your questions when you need help

  • Limit the number of technologies you use:
    Using too much tech at one time can be overwhelming and frustrating and may distract you from your learning

Enhance your Learning

A quick look at how advancements in technology have impacted teaching and learning over time.

If you do not see the video, please click on the link to view it in a new window or tab (you will leave this page):

The history of technology in education

Enhance your Wellness

Take a moment to bring to mind how you use technology, and assess your relationship with technology. How does it affect your attention span? When and how does it help you engage with your work? When and how does it distract you? Are you in control of your technology use or does it have some control over you?

Learn more about using technology with intention here:

https://sass.queensu.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2014/05/Healthy-tech-habits.pdf.

For more wellness resources, see:

https://services.viu.ca/counselling/health-wellness-resources.

Student Support Areas

IT Helpdesk

 


Get the most out of studying

Get the Most From Your Classes

Tips on better note taking, reading strategies and learning online

Value for Me?

Using Tech for Learning can enhance your experience

  • study more efffectively,
  • stay on task,
  • and stay focused using technology.

Technology Integration

  • Diigo
    • Knowledge and Reading Management
    • Use this tool to bookmark and organize web pages into lists, and add tags for easy searching
    • Highlight and add notes to web pages without having to save them offline
  • Symbaloo
    • Visual bookmark management
    • Allows you to create and organize “tiles” that are bookmarks to various spaces
    • You can choose the images and/or colors of the titles to help visually organize materials
  • Sync.com 
    • Online, encrypted file storage
    • Free account includes 5GB online storage
    • Password protected file sharing
  • Jumpshare
    • Allows for file sharing and viewing online (200+ file types supported)
    • 2 GB free online storage
    • Easy, drag-and-drop interface
  • IFTTT
    • “If This then that” allows you to create “triggers” and “actions” 
    • For example: automatically send Gmail attachments to Google Drive, or text a note to Evernote (for more examples, see their “recipes” here: https://ifttt.com/recipes/)
  • VIU Apps4Education

    • Links to additional apps you might find useful. 

Build your Resources