Online education: a review

Introduction Many confusing terms  Online learning, flexible learning, open learning, telematics, Web-based education, distance education...

Debate The future of online learning:  Pros  Cons Consider age, location, content, impacts, effectiveness, access, … Clearly a key area for instructional technology

Converting to online learning Developer’s viewpoint: Advantages and disadvantages:  Cost-benefit (development, delivery, facilities, travel)  Training efficiency (but new skills required)  Reusability  Value

Converting to online learning Learner’s viewpoint: Advantages and disadvantages:  Flexibility (pace, place, space)  Multimedia (e.g., simulations)  Learner motivation and isolation  Accessibility (costs, disabilities, technophobes)

Design issues (1) Technology:  Fluency Teaching:  Use media appropriately  Support close student interaction  Communicate expectations up front  Provide timely feedback  Emphasize time-on-task  Maintain consistent standards (Chickering & Reisser, 1993)

Design issues (2) Learning:  Support active learning  Support flexibility  Support student-student communication & collaboration Evaluate:  Effectiveness (assessment)  Cost-benefit  Usability

Diversity issues Age, gender, disability, literacy, culture socio-economic status (digital divide), privacy, filters and censorship, copyright, intellectual property...

The Future? Ubiquitous computing (pda’s,...) Intelligent agents Virtual reality...