HiTech Podcast

In episode 172, we continue our Human Tech series, focusing on the importance of clarity in our relationship with technology. This thought-provoking conversation explores why understanding our purpose is crucial when creating or using tech. Whether you're a teacher, designer, or professional, we delve into the significance of knowing "why" we need a particular technology.

In episode 171, we kick off our Human Tech series, discussing the four ways we can successfully manage our relationship with technology. In this thought-provoking conversation, we explore the first way: understanding our human nature and how it impacts our interactions with technology. We delve into our vulnerabilities and strengths. Additionally, we introduce Humane Tech, an organization dedicated to realigning technology with humanity's best interests. If you want to learn how to better manage your relationship with tech or help others learn to do the same, you won't want to miss this one!

Episode 169, we continue Season 8 by discussing the importance of online collaboration and writing-first approaches. In this thought-provoking conversation, we explore why reflection and taking time to think first are crucial in both professional and educational settings. Prioritizing written communication can help avoid excessive meetings where we talk about work rather than doing it. In classrooms, we argue that writing before discussing allows students to think, reflect, and rework their ideas, leading to more productive conversations. We also, introduce 37signals' cool tool Writebook, which allows users to publish blogs or books online for free.

Episode 168 we kick off Season 8 with Bryan Ollendyke, a web developer and educator from Penn State, discussing his innovative movement HAX (https://hax.psu.edu/). In this enlightening conversation, we explore HAX's mission for Web Ubiquity - making internet content creation and presentation accessible and portable for everyone. While primarily designed for OER and online course environments, HAX is rapidly evolving to support various website types. Bryan shares how this seemingly simple idea empowers average learning developers to reclaim the internet for educational purposes and beyond. We delve into the far-reaching implications of HAX and its potential to revolutionize how we create and share content online.

In Episode 167 of the Hitech podcast, we're roasting big tech's wasteful practices that force us to spend more and create tech waste. But fear not! We're also praising  @FrameworkComputer  for their easily upgradable and fixable laptops. Join us for a snarky celebration of owning your tech instead of being a slave to forced obsolescence! ;)

In Episode 165, we tackle the question: Can evaluation be done without an instructor, and if so, how? Will and Josh discuss the importance of instructors while exploring alternative evaluation methods. They delve into scenario-based learning, knowledge checks, and self-evaluation as ways to assess learning in a course. Additionally, they introduce Typeform as a powerful tool for evaluation.

Episode 163 features our friend and newest team member, Chris Crosdale. We discuss Chris's experience in social media, how he used technology to find our voice and brand, how  @Hootsuite  and  @StreamYard  saves him hours of work, and how we can be more authentic on social media platforms.