Arthur M. Recesso (amrecess@valdosta.edu)
Wed, 13 Jan 1999 13:30:40 -0600
Date: Wed, 13 Jan 1999 13:30:40 -0600 From: "Arthur M. Recesso" <amrecess@valdosta.edu> Subject: [ifets] online learning systems
Response to recent postings about online learning systems:
I have recently brought my Networking and Automation class online. The
online system is being used more for a "support" of the student's
learning than a complete substitution of class instruction.
I would say the major difference between my online classes and
traditional "lecture" class is the re-thinking of instructional
approach. I often use anectdotal stories and experiences to make a
point about a theory, model or idea being presented in the "traditional"
class. Using the online system causes you to think of a different
approach. In addition to my discussing a topic I may provide links
directly to relevant information. The student is able to make a direct
connection between learning in class and experiences from the field.
The online system as a support mechanism to the class allows for more
time to use applied instructional methods in class. Students are
required to complete introductory and background work online (in
addition to the class discussions) and then participate in guided
instruction and activities in class.
The reaction from students has been very positive. I think this is due
to several events. 1) the technology is new and none of them have had a
class presented this way before, 2) the class is being presented using a
medium other than a unidimensional textbook, powerpoint, or whiteboard,
and 3) the system interconnects; the objectives of the class, the actual
content of the course, resources to help the students learn the content,
and the assessments.
As the semester continues I expect to find more advantages and
shortfalls of using the online learning system. At this early stage I
feel that it was time well spent building the site. I estimate it took
me 14-16 hours to create what I have so far...and there is more to be
done. If you would like to visit the site:
http://chiron.valdosta.edu:8900/
click on course listing
click on education
click on ITED 7400: Automation and Networking (not the 7400above it!)
user id: guest
password: webct
At this time I have limited the system to one guest at a time, so if you
are unable to log-in please try again at another time when someone else
is not using the system under the guest account.
Art Recesso
http://innovativeknowledge.com
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