Texas' new higher education plan sets goals of enrolling 500,000 more students in higher education and increasing the number of certificates and degrees awarded by 50%, by 2015. Distance learning technology, which is already opening doorways to higher education, is poised to play an even larger role in helping Texas reach these goals. The Texas…

Outlines four categories of "prior" questions to consider before embarking on a distance learning program: "Everyone is doing it"; "The promise of income"; "Computers and networks"; and "Potential students." Identifies other questions that focus on types of individual needs and how they are being met; options that could be made available; problems…

This paper proposes three criteria for developing research questions that have the potential to illuminate the understanding of Web-supported learning in K-12 classrooms: (1) questions should be situated in progressive instructional contexts; (2) questions should focus on what is happening in the Web-supported learning environment in addition to…

This paper examines the notion of whether computers can provide teachers with the necessary tools to alter the constraints of the traditional classroom and allow for constructivism and independent learning. The study was carried out at Methodist Ladies' College, a girls' school in Melbourne, Australia; information was collected through teacher…

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…

To expand online learning opportunities for K-12 students and educators, the Colorado Department of Education established a task force that evaluated programs in 16 other states. Four principles were identified as necessary to promoting equity, rewarding individual achievement, assuring quality and consistency, and adapting to diverse needs:…

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…

An integrated framework for individualized instruction in vocational and technical education could consist of five components, including the student, teacher, environment, instructional content, and mediation. In this review, research and development materials identified through a computer search of materials in the Educational Resources…