Chapter 7

Introducing the Internet and Other Distance Learning

Tools

http://www.surfnetkids.com/movie/

http://video.yahoo.com/video/play?vid=1083229740&fr=yfp-t-501

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-2316885007811380286&q=distance+education&hl=en

United Streaming

7.2

Definition of Distance Learning

“The acquisition of knowledge and skills through mediated information and instruction, encompassing all technologies and other forms of learning at a distance.”

USDLA – http://www.usdla.org/

7.3

Types of Distance Learning Activities

• Student Research• Online Classroom Materials• Web-Based Lessons• Virtual Courses and Programs

7.4

Ways DL Supports Learning

1. Fast access to info2. Access to experts, courses, &

lessons not available locally3. Fast communication to groups4. Communication supporting

collaboration5. Access to learning materials

7.5

Ways DL Supports Learning

• Access to education for homebound students

• Learning communities support collaboration

• Lesson ideas from multiple sources• Increased interaction among

students and between students/teachers

7.6

Current Distance Learning Issues

• Digital Divide• Development and socialization• Positive and negative impact on

education reform• Virtual schooling issues

– Curriculum alignment– Teacher certification– Accreditation– Funding– Possible negative

consequences

7.7

Current Distance Learning Research

• Conflicting Results• Asynchronous > Synchronous• 2 way communication > 1 way interaction = satisfaction• Increased dropout rate in DL• Requires > Motivation

7.8

Current Internet Pitfalls

• Inappropriate Materials• Privacy and Safety• Fraud• Viruses and Hacking• Copyright and Plagiarism

7.9

Internet Communication Resources

• Email• Listservs• Bulletin Boards (BB)• Blogs• Chatrooms• Instant Messaging (IM)• Videoconferencing

7.10

Internet Cybercollaboration

• Multi User Dungeons (MUDS)– Virtual Gaming/Simulation– 2nd Life– Avatars

7.11

Web Course Development and Support Tools

• Course management systems• Site-capturing software• Intranet• Electronic whiteboards

7.12

Characteristics of Effective Distance Courses

• Well-designed and structured to support learning

• Engaging activities• Collaborative activities• Interactive learning community • Effective assessment strategies

Chapter 8

Integrating the Internet into the Curriculum

7.14

Integration Plan Questions

1. What is the curriculum-related purpose of the activity?

2. Does the Internet enhance the activity?3. How will students use online resources?4. Do students have the necessary skills?5. Do I have the necessary time and

support for the activity?

7.15

Types of Web-Based Activities

• Electronic penpals (keypals)• Electronic mentoring • Electronic/virtual field trips• Electronic publishing• Group product development• Problem (or Project)-based learning

(PBL)– Web Quests

• Social action projects

7.16

Integration Strategies

• Support for student research• Motivation for writing• Practice for information literacy skills• Visual problems and solutions• Development of collaboration skills• Multicultural experiences

7.17

Website Function Type 1

• Project overview• Announcement• Application

Website Function Type 2

Tutorial instruction

7.18

Website Function Type 3

• Information summaries• Information exchanges

Website Function Type 4

• Communication• Support

7.19

Website Function Type 5

Display of past and current student work

Website Function Type 6Project-development centers

7.20

Web Information Considerations

• Limit sharing of personal information

• Limit photographs and large graphics

• Address web page criteria

7.21

Evaluating Website Design

• Structure and organization• Clear text and graphic links• Visual design• Navigation

7.22

Evaluating Student Web Products

• Checklists– See Figure 8.23, p.

278

• Rubrics– See Figure 8.24, p.

279

7.23

http://www.emtech.net/kidsites.htm

http://www.emtech.net/index.shtml

http://ivyjoy.com/rayne/kidssearch.html

http://www.westmark.pvt.k12.ca.us/LRCweb/specialtysearch.html

http://pbskids.org/music/index.html