Discusses trends in Web-based learning environments. Highlights include common features of existing Web-based learning environments; challenges; the large amount of available online educational material; adaptation and dynamic interaction; real-time interaction; and monitoring online testing. (LRW)

Describes e-global library, a virtual library based on the Jones International University's library that organizes Internet resources to make them more accessible to students at all skill levels. Highlights include online tutorials; research guides; financial aid and career development information; and possible partnerships with other digital…

Considers tuition rates for out-of-state distance education students. Describes policies at Old Dominion University (Virginia) where there is a uniform tuition rate; and explains a pilot program of the Southern Regional Education Board's (SREB) Distance Learning Policy Laboratory that is extending the concept of the Academic Common Market to…

Describes the development of an online physical anthropology course at Palomar College (California) that evolved from online tutorials. Discusses the ability to update materials on the Web more quickly than in traditional textbooks; creating Web pages that are readable by most Web browsers; test security issues; and clarifying ownership of online…

Provides a generic view of distance education graduate degrees based on a review of seven accredited programs. Discusses the development of distance education degrees; accreditation process; required courses; other courses offered; costs; course delivery media, including online and combinations; and future prospects. (LRW)

Discusses the necessity of a good help desk available around the clock for students of online courses to ensure a higher retention rate. Recommends a mission that emphasizes student success as the main focus, full time employees, proper training, and short response times. (LRW)

This interview with Anthony Bates talks about the effects of technological change on distance education, its implications for colleges and universities, and how to prepare for it. Topics include infrastructure decisions; faculty support and training; and future possibilities. (LRW)

Describes a class at St. Petersburg Junior College (Florida) that blends classroom, computer lab, and Web-based resources for an English as Second language class. Discusses paradigm shifts in learning processes and teaching methods; designing student activities for the course; and student attitudes. (LRW)

Considers Web accessibility issues for the disabled and the need for colleges and universities to make distance education programs compliant with pertinent sections of the Rehabilitation Act and the Technology Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act. Describes the Department of Education's position and offers resources on…

Describes the first online undergraduate certificate program in programming which was created specifically for the deaf and hard-of-hearing at Rochester Institute of Technology's (RIT's) National Technical Institute for the Deaf College. Explains modifications to videotaped lectures as well as possible future plans. (LRW)

Describes a new model of advisement services for online learners that was developed at Capella University, a totally virtual campus. Discusses advisors' training, that included learning about the characteristics of adult learners and differences between online learning and traditional settings; and a course that teaches online learning strategies.…

Describes the use of Web technology to create a repository for American bird songs at Northeastern Sate University (Oklahoma). Explains the use of software to translated bird songs into a sonogram, or picture, of what the sounds look like for ornithology students to better learn bird vocalizations. (LRW)

Describes Flashlight Online, a collaborative Web-based service for creating, administering, and analyzing surveys that help institutions examine the effectiveness of their uses of technology in instruction. Explains how Flashlight Online is being used at Washington State University by faculty for online surveys of their courses. (LRW)

Discusses the growth and development of international distance education, particularly United States-based distance learning providers selling their programs overseas. Considers the need for more cultural sensitivity, and suggests that government-funded educational development money go to companies who develop materials using local experts in…

Discusses factors that can lead to successful electronic learning programs to supplement existing courses or distance education courses. Highlights include live technical support 24/7; trained faculty; convenience for learners; server reliability; mandatory online orientation; course conversion and development; and scalability. (LRW)