USDLA 2009 Award Entry - Interactivity

This section focuses on examples from the Hawaiian Culture course. Kamehameha Schools Blackboard: http://blackboard.ksbe.edu Username and Password: usdla08

Text Version (PDF)
All of our courses use various interactive features to engage the students in the program. We start the semester by sending them an orientation DVD which introduces them to the school, program and staff. This is a great way for the whole family to see what they are getting involved in and how much we value each student that enters our program. We go out of our way to make the students feel welcome and this continues throughout the duration of the course. These are places in the Hawaiian Culture course that highlight the interactive categories:
All courses that we develop incorporate multimedia elements of video, audio, games, quizzes, and presentations. Here are two examples of interactive content in the Hawaiian Culture course: Trivia Announcements - images and audio reveal a historic Hawaiian site. These announcements enhance the content as well as provide a motivating factor for students to login for "Trivia Tuesdays". Voyaging Lesson (Unit 2) - this lesson includes links to external Web sites that have interactive games.		Students are encouraged to contact their teacher whenever they need assistance.The instructor checks into the course daily to moderate communication, answer questions, and provide feedback. Staff Information button - teacher's office hours and contact information. All students are also taught how to use Wimba Pronto as a way to instantly connect with their teacher or other students. Discussion Board button - the instructor moderates all discussion forums and is available to answer questions as they arise.

Kumu Cua knows that high school students thrive on the social aspects of the Internet. Here are two ways that she encourages peer communication: Voice Board button- three audio recording forums for students to record their messages and provide comments to others. Hō‘ike button - this is the student's final presentation. The virtual gallery allows students to see what others in the class have done and send them feedback. One unique aspect about our program is that we offer one face-to-face cultural excursion each semester. It's a time for students to get some hands-on experience and interact with each other through a group activity.