Online Communication Summary
Texas A&M provides many IT tools that encourage greater communication between you and your students. In addition, tools such as RSS feeds and Listserv email lists are useful in helping you stay informed and connected.
Using online tools requires attention to planning in order for them to be used successfully. The following summary can help you decide which tools can suit your needs.
Communication Tools
|
Application |
Pros |
Cons |
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Simple to use, no set up; lists automatically generated for you; lists updated every 24 hours. |
Students may not read their email; email not delivered to mailboxes that are over quota. |
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Students automatically enrolled, class roster updated every 24 hours; tools include Grade Book, chat room, discussion, whiteboard, bulletin board, and email. |
Requires set up to get course material online; need to log in to see announcements; email is internal to the application, but students may forward to an external address. |
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CIS provides web space (need to activate OAL account). |
Need to go to the web page to get information; need specialized knowledge to create web page. |
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Podcasts |
Can post podcasts on MediaMatrix, iTunes U, web page; can use RSS feed to inform students about new content. |
Students need to download podcasts; need specialized knowledge to create podcasts and RSS feeds. |
| Blogs | Blogs @ TAMU is a WordPress-powered system provides no-charge blogs to students, faculty, and staff. | Might need some training to use (available from Instructional Technology Services). |
| Wikis | Collaborative and social way to deliver up-to-date information and create online file repositories; Wikis @ TAMU connect with eLearning. | Might need some training to use (available from Instructional Technology Services). |
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Social Media (Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, and others) |
Widely used by students; generally easy to use. |
Need to voluntarily opt in and log in; university may not provide IT support for service. |
