Internet Based Learning: A Framework for Higher Education and Business

This book is for every teacher or trainer--whose computer skills may be limited--who wants to understand the Internet educationally, and use it in his or her courses.

As institutional pressures mount to integrate the Internet into teaching, this book provides a framework and a hands-on introduction to what’s involved, whether it’s adapting materials and teaching styles for the Web, or designing a virtual course. This book provides:
+ an introduction to the key educational concepts needed to adapt teaching methods and materials to the medium of the Internet
+ an introduction to both basic and advanced Internet skills-from using e-mail to collaborative conferencing
+ a framework for harnessing the Internet to achieve educational goals, and successfully exploiting its resources, features and applications to promote effective learning

The framework starts from the premise that teachers should progressively apply Internet technology as their skills and confidence develop. It develops the concept of “augmented” teaching styles—supplementing traditional teaching with Intenet based options; demonstrates how to use modules as the building blocks for Web-based learning; and shows how to use the Internet to deliver individualized learning, by enhancing personal communication between teacher and student, and addressing the diversity of learning styles.

The book abounds with inspiring and thought-provoking examples of Internet course materials developed by a wide variety of teachers and trainers, including modules and forms created by the authors who have extensive experience in delivering Internet-based courses.

A glossary of terms and directory of Internet sites and resources complete the book, which is also supported by a related Web site.

Deanie French is at the Department of Health Services and Research, Southwest Texas State University, San Marcos.

Charles Hale is at the Department of Health Services and Research, Southwest Texas State University, San Marcos.

Charles Johnson is at the Department of Health Services and Research, Southwest Texas State University, San Marcos.