Continues a discussion of the three chief information stations in a videoconference class. Describes the instructor camera at information station #2, an intermediary station between the three stations, and the student camera at station #1, the information station for interactive student participation. (AEF)

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;…

Two programs that have been successful at integrating a number of suitable conditions for learning a foreign language in the online environment are Spanish at Rio Salado Community College in Tempe, Arizona, and French at Coastline Community College in Fountain Valley, California. Discussion includes instructional delivery; course lab experience;…

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…

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…

Distance learning using two-way audio and visual interaction offers opportunities for personal interaction with and among students. Describes the experiences of a faculty member of the California State University (Chico, CA) who taught a human geography course to students in California and Japan. Provides examples of student-centered assignments.…