Discusses how the John Paul II Cultural Center is an example of how Catholic educators have begun taking advantage of new teaching resources to help students understand their personal faith. Center contains hands-on and interactive journey to learning about Catholicism and the faiths of other people. (MZ)

Describes the MathOnline system at the University of Colorado (Colorado Springs), a learning delivery method that, in addition to blending synchronous and asynchronous learning, combines traditional mathematics instruction with distance learning. Student surveys indicate the system greatly enhances traditional learners' educational experiences…

Presents seven strategies to assist educators in providing students with a high quality online communication experience: begin with curriculum; spend time planning; encourage a positive social climate; understand the unique nature of online communication; encourage good reading and writing skills; deal with inappropriate behavior and attitudes;…

Discusses several online and offline community-building strategies that may be used to foster a positive social dynamic in online courses. Introduces a "communal scaffolding" model which lets instructors conceptualize how affective and cognitive learning are intertwined in online learning. A "communal architect" is someone who erects a communal…

Reviews four studies that capture the present and potential impact of videoconferencing and outlines what needs to be done before videoconferencing is commonly used in education. Discusses instructional effectiveness, cost, factors that affect its success, and videoconferencing compared to other forms of communications. (Author/LRW)

Presents a methodological framework for practice-based research in the field of networked learning, based on a case study evaluation of a networked professional development initiative for information services staff in higher education. The theoretical case for the framework is made with reference to principles associated with contructivist program…

Reviews the literature on the interactivity concept from the perspectives of communication, computer-assisted instruction, distance education, and interactive dimensions and functions for Web systems. Proposes a technical framework for including such dimensions and functions in Web-based learning systems. Discusses evaluation feedback. Interaction…

Presents a mechanism, the Secure e-Course eXchange (eCX) designed to protect learning material from unauthorized dissemination, and shows how this mechanism can be integrated in the operation model of online learning course providers. The design of eCX is flexible to fit two operating models, the Institutional Server Model and the Corporate Server…

Briefly examines past military distance education practices and then focuses on discussion of the Department of Defense's (DoD's) initiative in Advanced Distributed Learning (ADL). Outlines some of the potential problems that should be addressed in the near future and possible solutions towards the goal of implementing a successful ADL system for…

Analyzes the case of a trans-European video-teaching link principally from the standpoint of the expenditure required to implement and run it, set against the benefits it offers. Considers fixed and recurrent costs. Concludes that, despite enthusiasms in the literature and in official reports for interactive tele-teaching, the financial burden it…

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)

Reports on a two-year study of an online program for teacher professional development. Survey data from twenty-six online students and in-depth case studies of four students, revealed five dimensions that contribute to effective online learning: relevant and challenging assignments; coordinated learning environments; adequate and timely feedback…

This study of 550 participants was designed to test an integrated theoretical model (the 4-E Model) for predicting the likelihood of the use of telecommunications-related technological innovations in learning-related settings. The four "Es" are: environmental factors, effectiveness, ease of use, and (personal) engagement. Results, which supported…

Discusses how the use of a newsgroup with elementary preservice teachers enabled discussion on classroom management, course-related, and controversial issues. Using this electronic format, students also supported each other through decision-making processes and stressful situations. The electronic discussion group became a forum where students…

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…