Teaching and Learning Technology Resource

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DESCRIPTION OF INNOVATION:

'Signs of China' is based on the software shell 'Storytime' developed by Mike Fardon. This shell provides four different 'nodes' or 'windows' each of which has a specific function (such as an index, a graphics window, an activity window, etc). Learners select an appropriate area of interest from the main index. The areas/themes include signs in public spaces, traffic signs, hospital signs, and going shopping. Each theme area has a number of signs to choose from. When a specific sign is selected the picture of that sign in its real context appears in another window.

Learners then have the opportunity of studying the characters, pinyin and English meaning. They can also listen to male or female pronunciation of the text. They may also record their own voices and compare them to the original voice-overs.

REASONS FOR DEVELOPMENT/INTRODUCTION OF THE INNOVATION:

To assist students in the recognition of billboards, public notices and signs in an authentic Chinese context. This is of particular importance for students intending to spend time studying in China via the in-country programme.

TEACHING/LEARNING AIMS:

To promote the visual recognition of a diverse array of signs and notices in an authentic context.

DESIGN PRINCIPLES:

The fundamental learning principle involved here is one of constructivism. That is, learners are given the basic content, but not in any specific order. They choose which aspects they wish to study.

USE:

'Signs of China' can easily be used in a stand-alone context or as part of a larger unit (as it is in this case). All students in second year Chinese use the software. It would also be entirely portable across campus or to other universities (it can be mounted on the WWW).

STUDENT SUPPORT:

Students are given an initial demonstration on how to navigate the software.

ASSESSMENT:

At present there is no assessment linked to this innovation.

EVALUATION:

We have conducted a survey of student opinion regarding 'Signs of China'. They have provided useful feedback which has subsequently been integrated into the software.

EFFECTIVENESS:

This is difficult to judge without having thoroughly assessed the students on the basis of this content.

HINDRANCES TO DEVELOPING INNOVATION:

The main factor is time.

ENABLERS TO DEVELOPING INNOVATION:

Mike Fardon and John Kinder have been very helpful and full of ideas and encouragement.

COST/BENEFITS:

Not a lot of money has been invested, mainly time. Needed to spend at least three hours a week over the course of a semester to get it going. But once up and running the software/package will remain functional for many years to come.

LESSONS LEARNT:

Think very carefully about whether the new innovation is actually better than more traditional formats.

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