Chapter 7: Distance Learning Tools and the Role of the Internet in Education

Communicating with the Internet

• Email
• Blogs and Bulletin Board

       - these types of communication allow users to communicating with one another by posting and sharing discussion topics, information and conversations. Users have the capability to comment on what is "posted". 

• Chatrooms, IM & video conferencing 
• Cyber collaboration and Avatar spaces:

      - these sites allow for what is referred to as "interactive faction" and role play. These programs provide the user with a more interactive and visual method of learning. 

Learning with the Internet: 


Technological tools for learning:

• Fax and postal mail
• Audio/ telephone conference
• Video conferences 
• Course management systems example: Blackboard, Moodle etc 
• Site capturing software: site whacking 
• Intranets
• Electronic whiteboards/ SMART boards 

Methods for learning: 

- DL (Distance Learning) has taken learning and education beyond the classroom and has created a culture in which learning can be done on a more global level. 

  While DL learning does not always replace the typical classroom setting. Online learning has bee configured to meet the needs of the student in the following 4 ways: 

1. Individual lesson plans:enhance the face-to-face curriculum. 
2. Online lesson enhancements: 
3. Completely online courses and curriculum:face-to-face curriculum is completely supplemented.
4. All-inclusive online course/curriculum:the content of the course can incorporate all three methods of DL methods. 

DL Activities: 

• Using online information to help teach themselves and their students 
• The use of website resources to create curriculum/lessons 
• Grade specific virtual courses and programs

Issues with education and the Internet: 

• Digital Divide - the haves vs. the have not's 
• Students spending too much time with technology and not enough time developing social skills 
• The reforming of education and teaching methods; concern and optimism about DL ability to uphold the traditional teaching methods. Optimism about the increased access to a quality education. 
• Concern with the overall structure of courses and programs including: curriculum alignment, teacher certification, accreditation, funding and negative consequences. 

                            V.S 
Signs of Effective DL: 

• courses and programs that are well designed and planned to meet the needs of the student, as well as, the goals/standards of the lesson 
• Engages students in interactive and collaborative actives
• A well established and interactive learning community 
• Effective assessment strategies