The electronic dissemination of information via computer networks is having a considerable impact on educational institutions in terms of the mechanisms that they are able to employ for course delivery. As a result of this, the number of courses that are taught electronically through the Internet and/or the World Wide Web has increased…

Competence refers to a state of being well qualified to perform an activity, task, or job function. According to the International Board of Standards for Training, Performance and Instruction (IBSTPI), a competency involves a related set of knowledge, skills, and attitudes that enables a person to effectively perform the activities of a given…

This paper describes three instructional strategies designed to support community building in an online graduate teacher education course: (1) MOO (Multi-User Dimensions Object Oriented) field trips, in which participants are introduced to text-based virtual environments on the Internet through metaphoric online "field trips"; (2)…

Declares that one of the products of a liberal undergraduate education is the ability to think critically. Explains that this is a crucial skill for economics majors to master. Describes how electronic discussion provides a natural framework for effectively teaching this skill. (JEH)

Examines the quality of asynchronous interaction in Web-based conferencing among preservice teachers. The study combines asynchronous conferencing with peer and mentor collaboration to electronically apprentice student learning. Results point out different levels of Web-based discussion: higher-level, progressive, and lower-level discussion. A…

Examines the hidden issues caused by the format-shifting effect in distance education. Findings of a study of undergraduate students indicated that learning format shifting is a period of dilemma that occurs during the early period for learners during their first distance class. Overlooking the issue would result in problems that could affect…

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)

Explores some potential problems with the increased use of technology in legal education, including an emphasis on pedagogy as information delivery rather than experiential learning and skill development, and the loss of vital face-to-face interactions. (EV)

Discussion of the Australian Academic and Research Network (AARNet) focuses on the benefits of Internet access for supporting teaching (based on an exploratory study and a longitudinal study of Australian academics). Results suggest Internet connectivity improves faculty collaboration and facilitates supervision of distance education and external…

Examines graduate students' perceptions of the educational value of their collaborative learning when using the Internet for course delivery. Respondents indicated that, although they enjoyed the convenience and opportunity for collaboration, a number of unsatisfactory elements were apparent with the instructional strategy and the delivery medium.…

Uses qualitative research methods to analyze a three-hour (48 contact hours) distance education course. Examines the reduction of social abrasion in distance education resulting from the combination of physical distance, emotional distance, simultaneous two-way verbal and visual access, private communication, and maintenance of distinct knowledge…

Analyzes the experiences and experiments of the Open University (OU), United Kingdom, in the use of computer conferencing over 10 years. Provides a framework for considering educational uses of the medium and describes several innovative applications. Highlights the main issues involved in implementing this technology. (Author)

Discusses the issues involved in creating an Internet-based chemistry class, including presentation of material, testing, lab work, and administrative support. (WRM)

Discusses possibilities for the application of telepresence to physics and teaching. Telepresence allows a computer user to effectively be present at some other location through the use of remote cameras, sensors, and controls. (WRM)

Describes attempts to move physics discussions out of the classroom and onto the Internet where students can participate any time through the use of an electronic message board. (WRM)