Economic downturn or not, technology is poised to take a paramount role in teaching and learning. New learning theories have been chipping away at the textbook-led curriculum, shaping its foundation into an unsteady, teetering structure. Students need different approaches for learning. Teachers need various venues for delivering diversified…

In 2006, the North American Council for Online Learning (NACOL) conducted its first international survey, researching how other countries were implementing online and blended learning opportunities for their primary and secondary (K-12) students. As the pace of growth of online and blended learning has grown at an average of over 30% each year for…

Currently, K-12 education in the United States is dealing with three major challenges: (1) global skill demands versus educational attainment; (2) the funding cliff; and (3) a looming teacher shortage. Independently, these factors present significant challenges. In combination, they create a national imperative for swift action to create a more…

In recent years, technology integration has become one of the top priorities at higher education institutions. Consequently, faculty members found themselves compelled to integrate computers and other technology into their teaching, research, and public service. The purpose of this qualitative study was to gain an understanding of some of the…

Virtual or online learning is revolutionizing American education. It has the potential to dramatically expand the educational opportunities of American students, largely overcoming the geographic and demographic restrictions. Virtual learning also has the potential to improve the quality of instruction, while increasing productivity and lowering…

This annual newsletter contains updates on the latest Community College Research Center (CCRC) research, new publications and details of upcoming presentations at major conferences. The feature article in this issue, "Strategies for Increasing Student Success," by Thomas Bailey, summarizes the discussion found in the CCRC Assessment of Evidence…

The Portuguese came to Macau in the 16th century, Macao has become part of China again since 1999. Under the strong economic growth in recent years, the Macao government has invested substantial human, material and financial resources for the implementation of IT in education in Macau since 2001. This paper reviewed the development of IT in…

Schools are at a point for change, about to incorporate technology as never before in the nation's classrooms. For this to happen, the input of savvy business managers is required. This book is for those who will not only be responsible for managing and financing technology budgets, but for providing the leadership to govern. The book reflects on…

Virtual schools make available a world of new courses from obscure electives to advanced placement classes that challenge students intellectually and open up new doors educationally. Thanks to the anytime, anywhere nature of online courses, students with a range of special circumstances (from health issues to job or family constraints) don?t have…

Information and communications technologies are radically changing the way that teaching and learning activities are organised and delivered within higher education (HE) institutions. A wide range of technologies is being deployed in quite complex and interactive ways, including virtual learning environments (VLEs), mobile communication…

Enumerates the challenges of adopting information technology (IT)-based teaching and learning strategies in higher education. Concerns addressed include whether IT should supplant rather than augment traditional teaching methods, the financing of IT acquisition, change of teaching and learning processes to increase productivity per person, and…

Nearly all Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) states have a state-sponsored virtual school, and the remaining states are either planning or beginning initial implementation. Just 12 years ago, none of the 50 states used the Web to provide courses to middle grades or high school students. By 2000, several SREB states, including Florida,…

Explores the rationale for computer simulations, describes a developmental approach to learning spreadsheet applications, discusses dilemmas posed in teaching and learning through simulations, and presents conclusions about using simulation for teaching school-finance and business courses and for professional growth. (Five references) (LMI)

This article proposes a model for a supported, managed effort to create an environment in which faculty can successfully integrate technology into the teaching process. The model is based on needs identified by the information services organization at West Chester University. An alternative financial model is offered. (Author/MLW)

As defined by the Commonwealth of Learning (COL), Open Schooling involves "the physical separation of the school-level learner from the teacher, and the use of unconventional teaching methodologies, and information and communications technologies (ICTs) to bridge the separation and provide the education and training". Within this…