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)

Defines mentoring, focusing on its use in distance education. Outlines categories of mentoring--traditional, peer, group or team, and online or virtual (telementoring). Discusses mentoring and technological change types of mentors in distance education classes; the role of computer-mediated communications; and decreasing attrition by pairing…

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;…

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…

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.…