Changes

To '''plan''', '''implement''' and '''evaluate''' a training course for users and trainers using the Westminster computer lab. The intention of this series of three training sessions is to provide basic computer skills to allow users to conduct classes and meetings in Westminster computer lab. In this way, many people can learn how to use the computer lab, train other members, or provide assistance to help "distribute" the technical support loadworkload. These courses will also enable users to coordinate with other users on-line to effectively plan, implement and evaluate future courses and/or church-related projects or initiatives.

In order for Westminster staff, volunteers and general congregation to meet newer technical challenges that for their church, more emphasis must be placed training should focus on collaboration and follow-up skill skills through the use of technology as opposed to simply using technology to gain information. Many of the church members Today, individuals are aware that webpagesweb-pages, e-mails, and electronic bullentin bulletin boards are interesting ways to communicateaccess information, but individuals also need to develop the subtle art of communicating<u>online</u> communication, collaboratingcollaboration, monitoring and following follow-up by using tools such as WIKIs and Blogsin order to effect change. Also individuals People need to recognize the advantages and limitations of each type of communication technology, and use each one to its maximum potential.

Great care must be taken to "deconstruct" (or remove built-in biases) in order from traditional learning methods that tend to create courses that help hinder, and not empower the student how to effectively use this newer technologyin collaborating over the Internet.

These series of courses should adopt the following principles:

* '''Movement away from tests, and more emphasis on a group projects.''' Adults tend to be "tired" and at the end of the day, but fun activities such as "break-out" sessions, ice-breakers, and group projects can be effective methods to keep students engaged and monitor participation. This is solidly supported by "Adult Learning PricinplesPrinciples".* '''Immediate and graduated use of personal WIKIs.''' Students need to "drop the textbook", and move "towards the cloud" (i.e. contribute to online database) in order to interact and share vital information and ideas with their peers and with the world in generalWorld. Course notes and readings to be created already contained in a WIKI to WIKIs allow instructor instructors to simply provide links direct students to each student edit their wiki to add link to their WIKIlearning content. Students will slowly learn the value of a WIKI and rely on that their WIKI as opposed to traditional hard-copy educational media.

* '''Learn to check own WIKI activity and other on WIKI activity''' via "Watch Lists". In this way, students learn to follow-up with group information sharing in a consistent and frequent manner.* Learning '''Using informal evaluation''' (feedback) methods in order to identify and solve potential problems and mis-communication.* '''Realistic, practical, and fun projects''' that can benefit the church, as well as provide examples how they can continue to use these skills long after they have completed these series of courses.* '''Learn to revise and organise online content''' (as required).* '''Gain an appreciation of contributing to the "Global Database"''', and realize (self-actualization) that other people (including beyond the classroom) are viewing (benefiting) from the same content.* '''Open Source software used by students in Westminster computer lab should be "Multi-platform"''' which means available in other operating systems (like MicroSoft Windows and Apple OSX) in order to practice and use software from their home computer.

A <u>minimum</u> commitment of taking attending the first 2 courses is required recommended to provide the members with computer lab basics and master online and collaborative toolscollaboration.

Candidates should be informed that '''although free, each course would have an approx value of $70-$80, and a higher value of $250 at a community college level''' (not to mention of the costs and time incurred of developing an effective and customized curriculum for Westminster United Church) . Each student must understand that '''excellent attendance is absolutely essential to not only gain skills, but help out the church work as a team to achieve its targeted project goals.''' by applying skills that are learned in these courses (especially the first 2 courses).

=== Proposed Courses Offered ===

==== The PIE Method Curriculum Design Framework ====

The '''PIE''' framework is one of the classic approach must recognised approaches to designing course curriculum. Elements of these training sessions will provide students with skills to help plan, implement, and evaluate courses. Although primarily used for course development, this framework could also be adapted for designing, implementing and monitoring church projects.