As with any innovation, the adoption and diffusion of digital technologies in higher education have also brought unintended consequences. This article discusses the unintended misuse of these technologies in the higher education setting. Depending upon severity, these consequences discussed--distraction, addiction, academic dishonesty, and…

This article explores the use of proper instructional techniques in online discussions that lead to meaningful learning. The research study looks at the effective use of two instructional techniques within online environments, based on qualitative measures. "Brainstorming" and "Six Thinking Hats" were selected and implemented…

The rapid growth of technology has made online tools available for education. The ability to discern the characteristics of these tools and to use them appropriately for educational purposes has become increasingly critical. Weblogs and discussion forums are among those up-and-coming tools that have great potential in supporting learning. They…

Educational technology integration in higher education consumes enormous resources but with little evidence of efficacy, due in large measure to lack of vision and a cohesive strategy. Instructors perceive formidable technical skills in undergraduate students, untapped in an instructional role, but this may be unfounded. This article proposes a…

In this article, the authors argue that online learning conversations need to go beyond the common "information exchange" to a deeper level of interaction in order to help learners build situated knowledge that is useful in their local contexts. The article begins by looking at the commonly-used framework of a Community of Practice (CoP) and, in…

Presents a model and an underlying process for selecting technology mediated teaching strategies. Discusses the use of the Internet in the learning process; computer-mediated communication; educational appropriateness of technology adoption; technology integration; learning principles for the model; and how to implement the model. (Author/LRW)

Looks at some key elements of teachers' knowledge and skill bases and considers how these might be supported in Web-based instruction. Describes the "micro-genres" that constitute the instructional events of the online class. Introduces a software package to demonstrate how these interactions may be facilitated in practice. (Author/AEF)

Reviews some of the current approaches for assessing asynchronous interaction. Describes an approach to assessing the contributions of students to an asynchronous forum (WebBoard) based on social constructivist learning theory. Presents a taxonomy of computer mediated discourse organized by the Simmons levels of assessing reflective thinking. (AEF)

Examines integrating computer mediated communication (CMC) in graduate education and describes the use of CMC to promote experiential learning in an educational-technology course, highlighting approach and objectives, curriculum changes, design of virtual space, instructional method, and results. Suggests further implementations. (PEN)

Focuses on designing the right questions for promoting discussion in online adult learning environments. Discusses levels of questions; purposes of questions; tips for online questions; principles for designing an online discussion; preparing learners for discussions; and managing the discussion in process. (Contains 9 references.) (AEF)

Describes the World Links for Development (WorLD) program, a World Bank effort to bring the Internet to 40 developing countries to connect 1500 secondary schools for collaborative project-based learning. Discusses the World Bank's role in development; program objectives, focus of training, financing, and goals; and lessons learned. (PEN)

Discusses how to counter problems in coupling technical/technological courses with distance learning. Presents a model which incorporates up to nine different technologies (television; student response units; voice mail; electronic mail; fax; CD-ROM; Internet; videotape; and computer) and addresses administrative solutions for delivering such a…