Examines the matter of authenticating distant student identities, and discusses several strategies including: proctored exams; digital signatures; getting to know the online student; and databases and online forums that yield student background information. (AEF)

Highlights developments at the Center for Distance Learning at the State University of New York's Empire State College. Describes two types of instructional applications: (1) the textbook, course guide and tutor as the primary mode of instruction, with a technological tool/activity as an additional assignment; and (2) the textbook and course guide…

Highlights studies confirming earlier research that telecourses are as effective as face-to-face instruction. Notes studies that show no statistically significant difference between the two modes of instruction; gaps in research studies; comparative studies; and use of simulation studies. (AEF)

Suggests that in distance education, "anytime" learning is as important as "anyplace" learning, and that true "anytime" learning is directly related to how much technology is used to make admission and enrollment flexible, and to allow students to move forward at their own pace. Using computer technology to make time…

Defines mentoring, focusing on its use in distance education. Outlines categories of mentoring--traditional, peer, group or team, and online or virtual (telementoring). Discusses mentoring and technological change types of mentors in distance education classes; the role of computer-mediated communications; and decreasing attrition by pairing…

Examines what distance education offers, and the difference between computer-mediated and traditional classroom instruction. Discussion includes investment in education; the reduced cost of travel; standard training and liberal education; prejudice in favor of traditional instruction; the uniqueness of the Internet; matching instruction with…

Examines factors that will influence how distance education is practiced in the first few decades of this new century. Discusses developments in digital technology; the exponential growth of knowledge about the brain, as well as physiology, chemistry, and psychology of learning; the system relationship between individual learners and instructors;…

Briefly highlights the work of one of the early pioneers of online education, Dr. Linda M. Harasim. Harasim stated five characteristics for online education and included active learning through peer communication and social process of knowledge building in the overall theory and definition of distance education. Other early contributors to…

Focuses on migration, a strategy for giving faculty and their students enough time to adjust to requirements of online teaching and learning. Lists information that has proven to be useful to both on-campus and remote students. Discusses acquainting students with the course Web site; making the course interactive; holding a remote session; working…

Discusses information, pedagogical and cultural perspectives on distance education in Africa, as well as the roles of educators and information technology. Suggests that the design of distance education for developing countries must be sensitive to cross-national and cultural differences. (AEF)

Highlights two recent studies in the field of distance education. C.N. Gunawardena and F.J. Zittle found a high degree of variation between learner satisfaction and social presence in a computer-mediated communication environment. J. McDonald and C. Campbell-Gibson study demonstrated that groups meeting in a synchronous computer-mediated course…

Focuses on software for distance education. Discusses the cost of course development and highlights three classes of distance education tools: communication tools, course development tools, and digital imaging and video production software. Presents three scenarios that reflect the most likely approaches to course development and presentation.…

Discusses developing a Type II distance-education course: writing the customized course guide, establishing conferencing areas, the new student consumer, and strategies for continuing- and distance education (active leadership, integrated technology systems design, home-based higher education, focus on institutional expertise, recognition of…