A summary of Bates (2008) SECTIONS model as applied in the context of this site.
Students |
Are students required to have a new login and password? Will this represent a barrier to some students in accessing the platform. Are they able to easily access the platform on their device. Does the platform address the different ways that students learn? Do the tools provided fit into their demographics, with tools they are already familiar with or can easily learn? |
Ease of Use |
How easily does this platform work on mobile, or on the device most used in your classroom? What kind of learning curve is involved with this platform? How much time needs to be dedicated in class to teach students how to use it. Will that time be worth the added benefits |
Costs |
Do students pay, the school, or the teacher. How do the costs weigh against the benefits? Is there a budget for such a tool? Are there freemium options available. Costs of time must also be considered, how much time will it take to have this platform useful for students. How much time does the instructor invest. |
Teaching Functions |
What are the desired outcomes of the teacher? Does this platform meet all the desired functions on your list? Does the platform allow a teacher to be a guiding presence throughout the collaboration? |
Interactions |
How are students able to interact with each other? How can they interact with each other? |
Organizational Issues |
Does your organization allow 3rd party software to be used in class? Will the IT department support any issues with this program or will the instructor be taking on another role. Will such a tool require restrictions from social media, from cloud storage, or other issues. Does the institution have the infrastructure, the wifi speed, the devices, or a policy in place to adjust for these issues. |
Networking |
How are students able to share this with each other and the class. Are social networks easily integrated (positive or negative depending on organizational issues) |
Security and Privacy |
Does the platform meet data storage issues, especially in BC? How much of what is created is private, how much is mined for advertising. How much personal information is provided for each student. What school and parental permissions are required. |