1.2 ON-LINE LEARNING

• Basic characteristics of on-line education,

fast - immediate connections/delivery in some cases

not scheduled - material can be reviewed and questions answered at any time

location independant - connection from any location, even home

high connectivity - a very large number of people, and information are readily available

individualized - sequence of material, depth of material, additional review, etc. can be adjusted by the student as needed

• Some important concepts when planning on-line courses are,

- bring the students into a learning neighborhood.

- create appropriate challenges for the content and format.

- context for all material must be clearly defined.

- set out a clear start and end to the work.

• When creating on-line courses,

- identify course goals.

- analyse material for suitability, some is not suited to distance, and solutions should be found.

- set objectives for modules (if this mode is used).

- try to make best use of tools available.

- don’t forget support, technical, library, etc.

- set up and maintain records of interactions in the class. (comments, discussions, etc.)

- set up an ongoing evaluation system, including feedback.

• From the faculty standpoint, factors for success are,

- faculty control of the course (ownership)

- don’t let technology replace the value of learning

- good technical support all round.

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