This article considers the various uses of e-portfolios in an educational context and looks at the particular characteristics of the electronic version of portfolios. It then focuses on the application of the e-portfolio as an assessment method. A case is made for the use of the e-portfolio as an appropriate end of course assessment process where…

This report on the use of the computer conferencing system CoSy begins with a summary of its application at the Open University in 1988, and describes the changes made for its use in 1989. An evaluation based on both quantitative statistics of usage and qualitative data from interviews and conference comments is made and compared with results from…

This paper examines how four innovative Internet technologies were incorporated into one course at The UK Open University. The technologies were: blogging, audio conferencing, instant messaging and Harvard's Rotisserie system. Each of the technologies is addressed, and details from the student evaluation are provided. The student feedback on all…

The objective of this study has been to prepare a report which identifies the major issues concerning the use of computer networks, and particularly computer conferencing, in education and training. The report is divided into four sections: (1) a discussion of the major themes and issues as they apply in education, training, and community…

This paper gives an account of the use of the CoSy conferencing system in an introductory information technology course at the British Open University in 1988. A discussion of the integration of the CoSy system into the existing curriculum is followed by descriptions of the conferencing environment and the interface to CoSy. Profiles of students…

The Open University pioneered the first use of computer conferencing in mass distance education in 1988, when it was used to provide tutorial support to more than 1,300 students in the United Kingdom via electronic mail and conference messages. A study of the use of the system in the first year revealed that: (1) only one-third of the students…

Discusses the results of an interview survey of 21 students enrolled in an Open University (Great Britain) course with a resource-based structure. The study examined use of CD-ROM materials, use of computer-mediated-communication as an information source, use of the Internet, and attitudes toward resource-based learning. (PEN)

This book charts how the tools of technology are altering ways in which higher education is being delivered and received. Divided into three sections, the book adopts a systematic and thoroughly researched approach to globalizing education. Part I examines major issues arising from the growing practice of global education. Chapter 1 considers the…

The Student Opinion Survey was sent to a random sample of 2,600 Open University (OU) students who had gained at least two credits and were studying during 1984. The response rate was 84 percent. Responses to open-ended questions on about one-third of those questionnaires were analyzed to determine the significant phenomena in students' experiences…

This paper discusses the concept of diversity of course components in the context of an online staff development course at the United Kingdom Open University. In addition to FirstClass computer conferencing and Web content, RealAudio was used in both synchronous and asynchronous modes. The purpose of its use was to add diversity and focus, which…