What is Online Learning?
The term online learning (or, as it is sometimes called, distance learning) includes a number of computer-assisted instruction methods. For the purposes of this handbook:
Online teaching and learning is faculty-delivered instruction via the Internet. Online instruction includes real-time (synchronous) and anytime, anywhere (asynchronous) interactions. What is online learning?
Two parallel processes take place in an online environment:
1. Students become more active, reflective learners.
2. Students and teachers engage in learning through the use of technology and become more familiar with technology by using it.
Online learning is most effective when delivered by teachers experienced in their subject matter. The best way to maintain the connection between online education and the values of traditional education is through ensuring that online learning is “delivered” by teachers, fully qualified and interested in teaching online in a web-based environment (Feenberg 1998).
Approaches to Online Learning
Two approaches to online learning have emerged: synchronous and asynchronous learning. Synchronous learning is instruction and collaboration in “real time” via the Internet. It typically involves tools, such as:
• live chat
• audio and video conferencing
• data and application sharing
• shared whiteboard
• virtual "hand raising"
• joint viewing of multimedia presentations and online slide shows
Asynchronous learning methods use the time-delayed capabilities of the Internet. It typically involves tools, such as:
• e-mail
• threaded discussion
• newsgroups and bulletin boards
• file attachments
Asynchronous courses are still instructor-facilitated but are not conducted in real time, which means that students and teacher can engage in course-related activities at their convenience rather than during specifically coordinated class sessions. In asynchronous courses, learning does not need to be scheduled in the same way as synchronous learning, allowing students and instructors the benefits of anytime, anywhere learning.
Adapted from Mark, Tony. “Web based Learning Primer.” http://www.c2t2.ca/landonline/primer.html
Course Software
Rather than creating your online course from scratch, a number of software programs are now available that make it easy to develop an online course. These programs include features such as threaded discussions and document sharing and pre-designed design layouts to make the course design process easier. Check with the campus technology specialists to learn more about the preferred software for online learning in your department.
Advantages of Learning Online
Online learning offers a variety of educational opportunities:
Student-centered learning
The variety of online tools draw on individual learning styles and help students become more versatile learners.
Collaborative learning
Online group work allows students to become more active participants in the learning process. Contributing input requires that students comprehend what is being discussed, organize their thinking coherently, and express that thinking with carefully constructed language.
Easy access to global resources
Students can easily access online databases and subject experts in the online classroom.
Experiential learning through multimedia presentations
New technologies can be used to engage and motivate students. Technology can also be used to support students in their learning activities.
Accessible for non-traditional students
Online delivery of programs and courses makes participation possible for students who experience geographic and time barriers in gaining access to higher education.
Draws on student interest in online learning
Many students are interested in online learning. In a recent survey conducted by the Office of Academic Planning and Assessment at UMass Amherst, more than 50% of students surveyed said that they were “very interested” or “somewhat interested” in taking an online course.
Advantages of Teaching Online
Teaching online courses can:
Offer the opportunity to think about teaching in new ways
Online teaching can allow you to experiment with techniques only available in online environments, such as threaded discussions and webliographies.
Provide ideas and techniques to implement in traditional courses
Online email discussions, a frequently-used practice in online learning, can be incorporated into traditional courses to facilitate group work. Other techniques, such as web-based course calendars and sample papers posted on the Internet (with student permission) can easily be incorporated into a traditional course.
Expand the reach of the curriculum
Online teaching can expand existing curriculum to students on a regional, national, and international level.
Professional satisfaction
Teaching online can be an enormously rewarding experience for teachers. Teachers often cite the diversity of students in online courses as one of the most rewarding aspects of teaching online.
Instructor convenience
Teaching online can offer teachers conveniences not available in traditional classroom settings; for example, at-home office hours and flexible work schedules.
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