How many times have you explained a task only to realize people still don’t understand? Have you ever responded to an email asking for a screenshot so you could understand what was being asked? We have all been faced with communication errors created by technical jargon, industry terminology, product-specific terminology, etc.
In this session we will test participants’ identification of an array of educational technology terms and icons, discuss the similarities and differences among those ids, and look at why those are significant in technology training. Then, participants will craft an on-the-spot explanation to a common question asked by many new to a university or college. Partners will pair off and discuss the similarities and differences in the explanation looking for keywords that may lead to the misunderstanding. Then as a group the participants will discuss the importance of language choice during technology trainings. Finally, in small groups participants will have the opportunity to receive related feedback on a job aid or other training guide they created for use at their institution.
Participants should bring one printed or digital job aid or other training guide they have created.
Participants will leave this session with a clearer understanding of the importance of word choice and suggestions for during a training session or in training documentation.