Chapter 7 Introducing the Internet and Other Distance Learning Tools http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-2316885007811380286&q=distance+education&hl=en http://video.yahoo.com/video/play?vid=1083229740&fr=yfp-t-501 United Streaming http://www.surfnetkids.com/movie/

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/

Types of Distance Learning Activities Student Research Online Classroom Materials Web-Based Lessons Virtual Courses and Programs

Ways DL Supports Learning Fast access to info Access to experts, courses, & lessons not available locally Fast communication to groups Communication supporting collaboration Access to learning materials

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

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

Current Distance Learning Research Conflicting Results Asynchronous > Synchronous 2 way communication > 1 way  interaction =  satisfaction Increased dropout rate in DL Requires > Motivation

Current Internet Pitfalls Inappropriate Materials Privacy and Safety Fraud Viruses and Hacking Copyright and Plagiarism

Internet Communication Resources Email Listservs Bulletin Boards (BB) Blogs Chatrooms Instant Messaging (IM) Videoconferencing

Internet Cybercollaboration Multi User Dungeons (MUDS) Virtual Gaming/Simulation 2nd Life Avatars

Web Course Development and Support Tools Course management systems Site-capturing software Intranet Electronic whiteboards

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

Integration Plan Questions What is the curriculum-related purpose of the activity? Does the Internet enhance the activity? How will students use online resources? Do students have the necessary skills? Do I have the necessary time and support for the activity?

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

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

Website Function Type 1 Website Function Type 2 Project overview Announcement Application Website Function Type 2 Tutorial instruction

Website Function Type 3 Website Function Type 4 Information summaries Information exchanges Website Function Type 4 Communication Support

Website Function Type 5 Website Function Type 6 Display of past and current student work Website Function Type 6 Project-development centers

Web Information Considerations Limit sharing of personal information Limit photographs and large graphics Address web page criteria

Evaluating Website Design Structure and organization Clear text and graphic links Visual design Navigation

Evaluating Student Web Products Checklists See Figure 8.23, p. 278 Rubrics See Figure 8.24, p. 279

http://pbskids.org/music/index.html http://ivyjoy.com/rayne/kidssearch.html http://www.emtech.net/kidsites.htm http://www.emtech.net/index.shtml http://www.westmark.pvt.k12.ca.us/LRCweb/specialtysearch.html