This paper describes the process of establishing an Internet-based online graduate degree program for teachers. At Webster University (Missouri), this program was the first online degree to be offered by the institution. The paper reviews Webster University's experiences and outlines a planning process that includes defining the rationale (risks)…

This paper provides an overview of different electronic portfolio development tools and introduces a strategy for using Portable Document Format (Adobe Acrobat PDF) files to store and organize electronic teaching portfolios. A 12-step process for constructing electronic portfolios is described, as are storing the working portfolio, publishing the…

World-Wide Web-based instruction (WBI) has become a powerful tool in recent years. However, WBI utilizing a constructivist theoretical framework has not been explored. A database-driven WBI is the solution for this implementation. Another critical issue is the difficulty encountered in creating, editing, and maintaining WBIs, particularly for…

This report shows the findings of a 1997 technology survey used to assess degrees of faculty computer expertise and the use of instructional technology. Part 1 reviews general findings of the fall 1997 technology survey: (1) the level of computer expertise among faculty, staff and administrators appears to be increasing; (2) in comparison with the…

This paper examines general systems theory as it applies to higher education institutions. Using this approach, the university is viewed as a system (comprised of subsystems) that interacts with the external environment. The first sections of the paper review general systems theory and its application to management, and examine some theoretical…

This proceedings of the 2000 Society for Information Technology & Teacher Education International Conference contains 459 papers organized in the following sections: Concepts and Procedures (23 papers); Distance Education (24 papers); Diversity & International (9 papers); Educational Computing Course (13 papers); Educational Leadership (8…

This paper shows features the development of new models for integration of internal and external students into the same type of courses and the making of a dual mode learning environment with common courses for on-campus and external students. Based on feedback from students, experiences about how these models work are presented. The work focuses…

This study examined the impact of a technology course on in-service teachers. Teachers' comfort level, beliefs, confidence, and attitude toward the use of technology were investigated. The impact of the course with different degrees of technology integration was also researched. The results indicate that the course increased students' comfort…

This study looks at how the media used in online discussion can affect the learning outcomes for students involved in distance learning activities. Online discussion within any learning environment can provide the opportunity for students to engage in thoughtful, content-based conversations about the topic under study, which may result in deeper…

The design of teacher education programs, including the preparation of teachers for working with information and communication technology (ICT), requires balancing of multiple considerations. Attention should be given to characteristics of students, requirements of education authorities and prospective employers, broader community aspirations, and…

This paper examines the effectiveness of increasing the confidence of preservice teachers in using technology for personal and instructional purposes as a result of participating in an introductory educational technology course offered at the University of Virginia's Curry School of Education. Course participants attended sections designed for…

This paper critically reflects upon the questions asked and the models and methods employed to evaluate online learning in several studies. These online studies range from setting up online networks for social interaction and facilitating collaborative learning experiences among graduate students in several universities, to moderating worldwide…

This paper is a report on the development and findings of an on-going study being conducted on 126 middle schools in rural eastern North Carolina. An analysis of the technological readiness of each school is being followed with a program to offer school leaders a technology design and teacher training that will work in their schools. This includes…

Interaction and collaboration have been identified as desirable components of an effective learning environment; however, it is not clear from research how they improve the quality of learning in a distance education setting. While studies have addressed the types of technologies that impact on collaborative interactivity, little has been written…

In this collection of articles, Indiana State University faculty members discuss their experiences in developing courses and teaching with educational technologies. The purposes of this publication are to share creative approaches to teaching and learning, and to acknowledge and support the efforts of Indiana State University faculty members who…