In a previous Techtalk column, Peterson and Caverly (2005) introduced the Community of Inquiry (CoI) model (Garrison, Anderson, & Archer, 2001) as a guide for online learning. The CoI model has maintained longevity and applicability to a variety of both synchronous and asynchronous technologies (Ice, Curtis, Phillips, & Wells, 2007). In this…

This research study looks at how organizations in developing countries perceive the challenge of building capacity in e-learning expertise. Data was collected on six such organizations, and a range of perceived rationales and constraints were identified. The paper hypothesizes a four-part framework to define the e-learning capacity gaps that these…

There has been increasing interest in informal learning in recent years alongside interest in how such learning can be supported by technology. However, relatively little is known about the extent to which adults make use of their own mobile devices to support informal learning. In this study, a survey was used to investigate whether, and to what…

This paper reports findings of a pilot study that examined the pedagogical potential of "Second Life" (SL), a popular three-dimensional multi-user virtual environment (3-D MUVE) developed by the Linden Lab. The study is part of a 1-year research and development project titled "Modelling of Secondlife Environments"…

This paper is a study on the interaction patterns of distance learners enrolled in the Mathematics and Physics programmes of Universiti Sains Malaysia in the videoconferencing learning environment (VCLE). Interaction patterns are analysed in six randomly chosen videoconferencing sessions within one academic year. The findings show there are more…

This study examined the use of ARCS-based, motivational mass e-mail messages designed to improve the motivation and retention of students enrolled in an online, entry-level, undergraduate computer applications course. Data from the Course Interest Survey, based on Keller's ARCS model, were gathered and analyzed for two online groups (one treatment…

Mobile learning is defined as the intersection of mobile computing (the application of small, portable, and wireless computing and communication devices) and e-learning (learning facilitated and supported through the use of information and communications technology). Consequently, it comes as no surprise that sooner or later people would begin to…

This study assessed learner preferences for using computer-based technology in a distance education course. A questionnaire was posted to students who had taken an undergraduate nutrition course at Athabasca University, Canada. The response rate was 57.1% (176 returned out of 308). Subjects were predominately female (93.7%) and nursing students…

The development of mobile wireless technologies has generated a considerable amount of excitement among practitioners and academics because it results in shifting the academic environment from traditional settings to mobile learning (m-learning) settings. Increasing numbers of institutions of higher education offer courses using mobile wireless…

Two reports discuss pilot projects using the Computer Assisted Distance Education Telecommunication Project (CADET) in Edmonton, Alberta. The first describes two studies that investigated the feasibility of telephone communication between two or more microcomputer (Apple) operators using an Amdahl mainframe computer as an intermediary. The results…

Designed to provide an overview for educators, this report summarizes experiences to date with applications of communications and computer technology to distance education. Findings relevant to educators concerned with grades K-12 in the six-state region of Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas are emphasized. A brief…

A Mechanics 12 course was chosen by the Alberta Correspondence School for a field trial of computerized delivery systems of vocational education programs to small rural schools where enrollment is low and the construction of vocational laboratories is economically impractical. The Telidon videotex system, which was initially selected, is composed…

This publication provides both a review of the different technology modes that may be used for distance education and a set of guidelines for planning and developing conceptual designs for educational facilities capable of supporting technologically enhanced educational delivery systems in a variety of settings. The Distance Learning in Small…

Technological advances have increased opportunities for nursing education, affording increased collaboration among nursing faculties in teaching, practice, and research. In an era when nurses are in demand, technology may help the profession educate nurses, prepare future educators, and advance the science of nursing. Several factors should be…

Technology is enhancing the ability of distance education to reach both aspiring nursing students and professional nurses who want to advance their skills. Distance education also improves access to education and, in doing so, counters the nation's increasing shortage of nurses. It allows nurses to continue to work while enrolling in online…