I am Jo Ann Hammond-Meiers, R. Psych. (AB) in private practice and working contracts in teaching/educational development
What is your criteria for teaching and learning based on your discipline and your prefered teaching style?
I’m a psychologist (teach various psychology subjects using LMS – like WebCT and Moodle), and art therapist (various art therapy traditionally as a teacher, but as a student I have studied art therapy online) (like all the digital and art making videos), and as a dance/movement therapist (ADTR), I’m excited about more use of videos.
What practices do you employ?
I’m still developing my skills. Right now I have been attempting to get my webcam to work (it used to). I recently presented a Power Point on Art Therapies and Technology. Professionals in my areas are very excited about any “camera” work that can be distributed for learning purposes.
How do you experience the learning moment as teacher or student within the context of online learning?
I get excited. Most students are really positive to learning the content of the subjects I've been fortunate to teach and I challenge myself to keep learning more.
If you were a panellist in such a teleconference, what would you say?
I think that camera skills improve with practice and exposure – like dancing – practice, practice, practice. I think with practice I will be more comfortable with being on webcams and with making and distributing Youtube videos. As a panellist I might get rather self-conscious, but I would proceed anyway.
What is your experience of being in front of the camera?
I used to do a group work and research work on camera and had varied experiences, mostly good. These days,I feel okay in doing demos for the work that I do, especially videos of work with clients and demo-volunteers as I think that the camera demonstrations are important for sharing and teaching. Lately I have did some demo videos as a distant education student (not for massive distribution on Youtube or for my colleagues). My son and I did demos in art therapy. As well, I recently made some videos with some clients and myself that were used in teaching in an inclass context. I really appreciated and loved recent videos that other professionals did that I saw on Youtubes. They were inspiring.
How do you feel when you see yourself on video?
Self-conscious about what I say and do, but okay. I feel I want to get it "right".. hmm... and there probably is only better.
What are the challenges for you in being a really effective online teacher/facilitator?
Having time to do what I want to do, Costs to donate more time and to teach takes away from my hours in clinical work, continued development of technical skill, using attractive instructional design that is well chosen for the material and learners.
What’s holding you back?
More time, money, clear objectives, engaging more with peers of similar interests, and projects with defined objectives.
What skills would you like to develop as far as online delivery goes?
Ease of delivery for online camera use and good practices.
