SICET/AECT 2009 Convention
Louisville, Kentucky

The Fifth SICET Annual International Convention was successfully held as part of 2009 AECT International Convention 'Integrative Approaches - Meeting Challenges' in Louisville, Kentucky on October 27th - 31th, 2009. About thirty Chinese scholars from US, China, and Taiwan took part in the SICET Dinner party on Thursday evening. They really enjoyed the gathering.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Hongbo Song, shared various multimedia products they created for language teaching and learning. Two invited speakers, Dr. Pinde Chen and Dr. Jinrong Li, introduced the educational technology program at their universities. These presentations gave audience a complete picture of the technology integration in China.

SICET hosted 14 concurrent presentations and 7 round-table presentations as well as one distance presentation. These presentations discussed different aspects of technology integrations in educational settings. Among them, Dr. Chun-Min Wang was awarded the best presentation and Mr. Guoqiang Cui was awarded the best student presentation. Both awardees were selected according to the evaluations submitted by the audience. All current SICET student members who presented as the key presenter received one year free membership. During the General session, Harrison introduced JETDE, Charles reported the Summer Fellowship, Tina reported annual convention, Hong gave the annual financial report, and Shuyan reinforced the future goals of SICET and granted the recognition certificates to the board members for their excellent jobs.

The presentation topics and abstracts are listed below for your interests. View the photo gallery (Here) to share our excitement at the convention.

SICET Keynote (Flyer):

Interactive Multimedia Development for Foreign Language
Presenter: Hongbo Song, Yantai University, China
Timeblock: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM, Oct. 28
Description: Interactive Multimedia Development for Foreign Language Education

SICET Invited Speakers (Flyer):

Presenters: Dr. Pinde Chen and Dr. Jinrong Li, China
Timeblock: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM, Oct. 28
Description: Introduce Educational Technology programs in their universities. Their presentations gave audience a complete picture of the technology integration in China.

Roundtable Sessions:

1. The Effects of Multimedia Chinese Language Learning on Student Performance and Attitudes
Presenter: Hui-Ya Chuang, University of Northern Colorado; Heng-Yu Ku, University of Northern Colorado
Timeblock: 2:15 PM - 3:15 PM, Oct. 28

Abstract: This study investigated the learning effects of combining the dual processing system with Flash animation in Chinese language learning. Chinese characters are highly pictographic so the Chinese language learning tutorial can use graphics to enhance student learning. Findings on 60 American undergraduate students' performance and attitudes toward single coding (text only) and dual coding (text and image or audio and image) tutorials to study Chinese characteristics were examined and discussed.

2. Design of a Web-based System to Support Assessment in Virtual Environments for Learning (VEL)
Presenter: Douglas Williams, University of Louisiana; Susan Pedersen, Texas A&M University; Yuxin Ma, University of Louisiana
Timeblock: 2:15 PM - 3:15 PM, Oct. 28

Abstract: This presentation will share the design of a web-based assessment system created to support assessment of student generated artifacts while working in virtual environments for learning (VELs). VELs engage students in student-directed inquiry by presenting a complex task within a context where all the resources necessary to address the task are available.

3. To Beautify Education - An Exploratory Discussion on Educational Aesthetics from an Educational-Technology Perspective
Presenter: Rongfei Geng, The University of Southern Mississippi
Timeblock: 2:15 PM - 3:15 PM, Oct. 28

Abstract: This paper will discuss the existence and significance of aesthetic need in education, both from a teaching and learning perspective, and attempts to reframe the term "educational aesthetics" that has been used by scholars in art education field. The term will be explored within educational technology field. The possibility to establish it as a sub-domain of educational technology will be discussed.

4. Applying Merrill's First Principles of Instruction into Design: Bring a Transformative Learning Experience through a Faculty Technology Workshop
Presenter: Lina Metlevskiene, Kansas State University; Huiming Lu, Kansas State University
Timeblock: 2:15 PM - 3:15 PM, Oct. 28

Abstract: This roundtable session will show how to develop a face-to-face training workshop based on Merrill's First Principles of Instruction to foster the transfer of complex skills and create a community of learners in using Learning Management System (LMS). Topics covered will be design and implementation of the structure-guidance-coaching-reflection cycle and a task-centered instruction. Guidelines, handouts, and techniques for designing workshops using this design framework will be provided.

5. Research-based Guidelines for K-12 Science Teachers to Use Blogs
Presenter: Wei Liu, Purdue University
Timeblock: 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM, Oct. 28

Abstract: The use of blogs in K-12 has been documented recently. However, such papers rarely discuss the blogs in K-12 science education. This study categorizes how blogs have been used in K-12 science classroom into blogging as a content delivery tool, as a reflective tool, and as a collaborative tool. In doing so, this study aims to inform K-12 science teachers the appropriate way to implement blogs in the classroom to promote students? reflection and collaboration.

6. Digital Archiving the Missing Culture - the Hakka Land Deity Project
Presenter: Yu-ching Chen, Chinese Culture University; Chih-wei Wen, Kao Fong College
Timeblock: 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM, Oct. 28

Abstract: In order to preserve the diverse cultures in Taiwan, archiving historical relics of these cultures is one of the important steps. In the Information Age, applying digital archiving techniques in preserving valuable cultures has become a focus in recent years. The Hakka Culture is believed to be one of the important and unique cultures in the Taiwan society. The purpose of this presentation is to introduce the project - Hakka Land Deity Digital Archive Project and share the experience of conducting the project. The strategies, challenges, educational meanings, and recommendations will also be provided in the presentation.

7. Assessing College Students: From Classroom to In-world
Presenters: Rui Hu, EPIT Dept., University of Georgia; Thomas Reeves, EPIT Dept., University of Georgia; ERIC K. BROWN, EPIT Dept., University of Georgia
Timblock: 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM, Oct. 28

Abstract: Teaching college courses in Second Life has been practiced by many educators. However, to what extent the learning outcomes can be assessed is to be explored. Based on Angelo and Cross's (1993) on traditional classroom assessment techniques, this article discusses how students' learning can be assessed in Second Life with the involvement of the virtual world and the affordance of its technology applications. Opportunities and challenges of using these assessment techniques have also been discussed.

Concurrent Sessions:
1. Hybrid Chinese Language Program: An Integration of Mobile Learning, Online Learning and Face-to-Face Instruction
Presenter: Tina Wu, Central Connecticut State University
Timeblock: 8:00 AM - 9:00, Oct. 29

Abstract: Mobility, Flexibility, immediacy and collaboration is the macro trend of future technology usage. Instruction in hybrid formats provides learners with choices about where, when, and how learning occurs. The paper introduces a hybrid Chinese language program at a university in America and presents a showcase that integrates mobile learning, online learning and traditional face-to-face instruction in a hybrid Chinese program. Literature reviews, guidelines for designing a Chinese program in hybrid format are discussed as are its benefits.

2. Chinese Online Education into New Millennium
Presenter: Xiaojun Chen, Purdue University
Timeblock: 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM, Oct. 29

Abstract: There is a huge expansion of Internet usage in China, which subsequently influenced Chinese education at large. There were forerunners investigating the implications and impacts of the Internet in China, however, at present little is known about Chinese online distance education and its sustainable development. This paper discusses the recent changes that the Internet and its web-based applications have brought into Chinese education system in higher education, K-12 and work-based training.

3. Self-Regulated Learning (SRL) in Community College Student Success
Presenters: Haihong Hu, Florida State University; Marcy Driscoll, Florida State University
Timeblock: 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM, Oct. 29

Abstract: This literature review first discusses an existing problem with community college student success, a high incompletion rate. Then, it covers the theories and research about SRL and learning strategy development. SRL strategy training has been found effective to promote learning achievement, motivation and strategy use. It was proposed that using SRL strategy training, implemented in the format of remedial or study skills courses, might be a solution to community college student success.

4. Introducing the Self-Regulation for Online Learning Training System (SRfOLTS)
Presenter: Haihong Hu, Florida State University
Timeblock: 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM, Oct. 29

Abstract: This is a demonstration of a system, including a web-based self-regulated learning (SRL) tutorial and strategy application to facilitate SRL in the online environment. It was designed based on learning strategy development literature to provide modeling and self-explanation, self-reflective practice and feedback on SRL strategies to promote metacognitive awareness and to enhance motivational processes. Suggestions for implementation and instructional implications will be discussed. This session may be interesting to instructors and administrators of online learning.

5. Motivating Student's Online Communication and Interaction
Presenter: Shuyan Wang, University of Southern Miss
Timeblock: 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM, Oct. 29

Abstract: This paper investigates students' interaction and learning experiences in an online course through WebCT. Communication tools used in this online course were threaded discussions, chat rooms, emails, and other tools in WebCT. The author will illustrate the strong and weak points of each tool through her own teaching experience and her students¡¯ learning experiences. This paper will also discuss the problems that existed in the class and students' feeling about them.

6. Assessing Teacher Candidates' Knowledge Development in a Pedagogical Laboratory
Presenters: Yuxin Ma, CILAT; Douglas Williams, University of Louisiana at Lafayette; Louise Prejean, University of Louisiana at Lafayette; Guolin Lai, University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Timeblock: 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM, Oct. 29

Abstract: Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) provides a framework to analyze the types of knowledge needed for technology integration (Mishra & Koehler, 2006). To gain a better understanding of what teacher candidates learned from pedagogical laboratory experience, we used TPACK as a framework to analyze teacher candidates? reflective writing after the field experience. We will present the literature review, methods, and findings. We will also discuss the implications of the study.

7. Social Networking In E-Learning Courses: Building Sense of Community
Presenters: Harrison Yang, State University of New York at Oswego; Steve Yuen, The University of Southern Mississippi
Timeblock: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM, Oct. 29

Abstract: The presentation will provide an overview of sense of community and social networking; discuss the potential uses of social networking in education; and present a case study that integrates social networking into two graduate courses for the purpose of building a sense of community, improving communications and interactions, and promoting student-centered collaboration. The design, development, and implementation of class social networking sites and their effects on the students' learning experience will be examined.

8. Flat-Structured Discussions as Organizational Scaffold Learning
Presenters: Chih-Hsiung Tu, Northern Arizona University; Michael Blocher, Northern Arizona University; Cherng-Jyh Yen, Old Dominion University
Timeblock: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM, Oct. 29

Abstract: Flat or threaded discussions to support online learning are new challenging that online educators are facing. Both formats apply different structures/organizations to present and to relate to postings. By natures, both formats may have different impacts to online learning in terms of organizational scaffold learning. The purposes of this presentation are to compare and to present the learning impacts on these two different structures of online discussions. Forty graduate students¡¯ learning experiences on both formats will be reported. Effective instructional strategies are recommended.

9. Design, Rationale, and Lessons Learned from a Robotics and Educaching Experience for Children, Grade 1-5
Presenters: Douglas Williams, University of Louisiana; Yuxin Ma, University of Louisiana; Louise Prejean, University of Louisiana
Timeblock: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM, Oct. 29

Abstract: This presentation will share the design, rationale, and lessons learned from a six-hour educational robotics and educaching (i.e. educational geocaching) experience for children in grades 1-5. The experience begins with children viewing a cinematic in which they assume the role of aspiring archeologists exploring a Mayan tomb. The children program robots to overcome challenges and apply math, science, and knowledge of Mayan culture to unlock the secrets of the tomb and locate hidden caches.

10. Effectiveness of Cell Phone Usage in China's EFL Classroom
Presenters: Guoqiang Cui, The University of Southern Mississippi; Shuyan Wang, The University of Southern Mississippi
Timeblock: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM, Oct. 29

Abstract: Among all the mobile devices, cell phone is the most popular tool and is becoming a necessity to people in their daily lives. Recently, educational utilization of cell phone is greatly discussed and proven to be an effective tool in many fields of education. However, there is less evidence on how effective it is in EFL education. Authors will apply what they discovered in their previous study to the practice and adopt cell phone in EFL teaching and learning at Yantai University in China to discover its effectiveness in foreign language teaching. Results will be later reported at the conference.

11. Bag of Technology Tricks: Strategies for Teaching Chinese
Presenter: Ronglei Chen
Timeblock: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM, Oct. 29

Abstract: Chinese Teachers need new technologies to connect to today's students. Along with the introduction of new tools, they must be given the opportunity to explore how to effectively integrate a particular tool into their classroom teaching. The presentation will highlight six innovative technologies for effective Chinese language learning: 1) YouTube to enhance speaking and listening, 2) Wetpaint to improve writing and effective assessment. 3) Stroke-order to check Chinese character writing, 4) Audacity to promote listening comprehension, 5) Photo Story 3 to practice speaking and writing, and 6) Delicious to boost professional development.

12. Collaborative Learning - A Way to Transform Learning and Instruction in Online Courses
Presenters: Hong Zhan, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Timeblock: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM, Oct. 29

Abstract: This presentation reports a study of collaborative learning in undergraduate online courses. Three classes containing a different degree of collaboration (no-collaboration, low-collaboration, and high-collaboration) were compared by observing scores in online tests, paper assignments, and online discussion. The study found that classes with collaborative activities had higher achievements. Based on this result and the perspectives obtained from interviews with the instructor and students, this study provides suggestions for online course design and instruction.

13. US-Taiwan Cross-culturally Online Collaboration for Learning: The Perspective from Taiwanese College Students
Presenter: Chun-Min (Arthur) Wang, National Hsinchu U. of Ed, Taiwan
Timeblock: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM, Oct. 29

Abstract: The purpose of this presentation is to share an innovatively online learning experience between US and Taiwanese college students. By using facebook and other Web 2.0 applications, students from US and Taiwan became learning partners and formed groups to work together on their assignments. In this presentation, the challenges encountered and the ways to improve the cross-culturally online collaboration will be shared. Additionally, a recommended procedure to implement cross-culturally online collaboration is also proposed.

14. Bridging Two Continents in a Virtual World: Integrate Second Life into an EFL Program
Presenters: David Stone, Southern Polytechnic State University; Xiaoxue Wang, Georgia State University; Hongbo Song, Yantai University, Yantai, Shandong, P.R. China; David Stone, Southern Polytechnic State University; Yongqian Liu, Qiaoqiao Yan, Yantain University, Yantai, Shandong, P.R. China
Timeblock: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM, Oct. 29

Abstract: Faculty members of an American university and a Chinese university worked together using Second Life to create an authentic English learning experience for the Chinese students of English as Foreign Language (EFL). The presentation shares with the audience the project background and problems they encountered, solutions used, and what they have learned in this collaborative project. Based on the relevant literature and the formative project evaluation, the presentation will finally offer some design considerations for integrating Second Life into an EFL program.

SICET General Session:
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM, Oct. 29
The general session reports the progress achieved last year and share information on how to get involved in international exchange such as summer fellowship trips to the universities in Mainland China. President will present the awards to presenters. You can view the PowerPoint slides in PDF format for details.

The call for proposals in 2009 can be viewed on this page.