This article highlights instructional communication and distance education research with an emphasis on the social dynamics of the online learning experience and their impact on the learning experience. Literature related to the twin concepts of immediacy and group cohesiveness--central constructs related to building an effective classroom social…

The purpose of this study was to advance understanding of how to facilitate higher levels of learning when using asynchronous text-based Internet communication technology. The framework used to guide this study is based on the community of inquiry model developed by Garrison, Anderson, and Archer (2000). Crucial methodological constructs congruent…

Web-based teaching and learning cannot be easily characterized. In Web-based teaching and learning, technology features are combined in a theoretically unlimited number of ways to support a multitude of requirements and preferences. We need to better understand different approaches, activities, goals and perspectives, and approaches likely to…

This paper discusses the development of a new instructional design model based on socioconstructivist learning theories and distance education principles for the design of online wisdom communities and the efficacy of the model drawing on evaluation results from its implementation in Fall 2002. The model, Final Outcome Centered Around Learner…

Evaluation activities provide vital information on which to base planning and implementation decisions related to today's rapidly changing educational environment. This article discusses the context of and rationale for the rigorous, well-planned evaluation of online courses and programs; differentiates among evaluation, assessment, and research;…

This paper addresses the issues involved with the implementation of electronic portfolios on a college-wide basis. Important elements of traditional portfolio assessment, including philosophy, reliability, and validity are discussed, particularly in terms of the roles they play in an online system. Some of the complexities involved in developing…

There are many different formats being used for distance learning and each has implications for institutional and public policies. With almost 90% of U.S. public colleges and universities offering distance learning courses, it is important for all members of the academy to be aware of these implications as they consider their own involvement in…

Describes the use of the California Central Coast Online Dictionary, a database-supported Web site, in teaching an introductory class on linguistics and lexicography. The project allowed consideration of several models for teaching in the information age: teaching as modeling, teaching as negotiation, and teaching as defamiliarization or…

Provides an analysis of several dimensions of weblogs (or "blogs," which consist of links to particular Web materials with specific commentary, generally presented chronologically) that make them of special value in university and college contexts. Also relates how weblogs are serving important roles in the approaches toward knowledge acquisition…

Explored the relationship among cognitive style, performance, gender, and communication among computer students. Found a significant relationship between performance and cognitive style; students whose cognitive style scores indicated a preference for analytical thinking had better performance scores when entering college than those with a…

A panel of experts proposed and rated categories and indicators of constructivist-compatible principles for Internet-based courses. The categories and associated indicators provide an initial framework that may help educators apply constructivist principles to the development of Internet-based courses. (EV)

Proposes a model for assessing distance learning instruction based on six constructs: the process of teaching and learning, developing a community of learners, the instructor, the student, implementation of the course, and technology use. Examines each construct by reviewing research in the field and makes recommendations for their design and…

Compared undergraduates who took online quizzes using Mallard with students taking traditional paper-and-pencil quizzes. Found that Mallard students performed significantly better on in-class exams than non-Mallard students. (EV)

Focuses on five unresolved challenges of digital education in higher education: faculty workload, continued dominance of traditional pedagogy, the state of assessment, flaws in the accreditation process, and the state of educational research in the area. (EV)

Describes a program at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology in Australia to draw on the skills and enthusiasm of early technology adopters by appointing them as Learning Technology Mentors to work with colleagues in their departments. (EV)