This study assessed the depth of online learning, with a focus on the nature of online interaction in four distance education course designs. The Study Process Questionnaire was used to measure the shift in students' approach to learning from the beginning to the end of the courses. Design had a significant impact on the nature of the interaction…

Presents encouraging empirical findings related to an attempt to create an efficient and reliable instrument to assess the nature and quality of critical discourse and thinking in a text-based educational context. Suggests that cognitive presence (critical, practical inquiry) can be created and supported in a computer-conference environment with…

In contrast to the big industrial mode of distance education, an approach to distance education called "little distance education," is described that is consistent with the traditional goals and values of creating knowledge through a critical community of learners. Discusses meeting the needs of a new market for continuing distance professional…

Discussion of learner control in the educational process focuses on adult distance education. Independence, power, and support are described as the three components of control of the learning process, and the concept of control as it relates to the communication process between student and teacher is discussed. (LRW)

Reports on a study of student perceptions of learning via audioconferencing using two distinct instructional designs in university-level courses delivered at a distance. The use of field observations, interviews, focus groups, and mail surveys is discussed; pertinent literature is reviewed; and the importance of human interaction in distance…