Disclaimer: I have been an active "free" user of LinkedIn for 5.463 years with more than 3000 (1st degree) connections from all over the world. I have no vested interest in LinkedIn other than as a user of the services it provides. Despite the fact that LinkedIn was originally designed as a network for business professionals, not…

This essay addresses the affective and social components on online teaching, components that have been neglected in much research on distance learning. The essay offers accessible and practical advice for online teachers to create a "context of care" in their classrooms, thus minimizing student anxiety and maximizing student learning.

Provides overview of process of switching from paper-based grade reporting to computer-based grading. Authors found that paperless grading decreased number of errors, made student access more immediate, and reduced costs incurred by purchasing and storing grade-scanning sheets. Authors also argue that direct entry grading encourages faculty to…

Argues that, although student evaluation of instruction is ubiquitous at colleges and universities, evaluations are rarely used for formative evaluation. Offers a guide for faculty use of student evaluations for the improvement of teaching. Suggests ways of finding meaning in both the numbers and student comments. (Contains 14 references.) (NB)

Analyzes the professional development aspects of incorporating information technology (IT) into teaching and learning. Asserts that because the majority of faculty still do not use technology other than e-mail to support instruction, and because institutions continue to struggle to meet technology support needs, professional development for IT…

Discusses practical strategies for incorporating diversity in college and university faculty and staff development programs, regardless of content. Presents Malcolm Knowles' seven-step program planning model as a framework--steps include assessing needs and interests, defining purposes and objectives, and designing learning activities. Contains…

Chronicles a year-long mentoring relationship at Kean University (New Jersey) through the eyes of the participants: one senior and tenured faculty member and one junior, first-year faculty member. States that the program is very successful in providing support to both new and seasoned faculty and allows participants to develop relationships with…