The number of U.S. teachers participating in some form of distance education is on the rise, yet compared to many nations, distance-based professional learning is fairly new in the U.S. What are common elements of effective global distance education for teachers, and what lessons do they hold for those who design similar programs in the U.S.? Over…

During the 2010-2011 school year, McWhirter Elementary Professional Development Laboratory School in Webster, Texas, faced a significant reduction in funds available for professional learning. In this article, the author describes how videoconferencing sustained the school's professional learning initiatives on a shrinking budget. By rethinking…

Research shows that distance learning (DL) works well for staff development. This article examines current DL technologies (satellite systems, interactive television, and computer-based interactive systems), noting issues to consider when using these technologies (audience characteristics, expectations, cost recovery, and interagency…

This article reviews the advantages and disadvantages of various delivery modes for distance education, including correspondence courses, radio, television or satellite-delivered instruction, teleconferencing, computer conferencing or electronic networking, and audiotex. Results are presented from a review of literature, interviews with experts in…

"Technology in the Curriculum: A Telecourse for K-12 Educators" was a graduate course emphasizing the integration of technology in the K-12 curriculum. This collaborative effort between a university and school districts required no campus visits by participants. The article describes experiences with the course, offering insights into distance…