Audio Use in E-Learning: What, Why, When, and How?

by: Brendan Calandra, Ann E Barron, Ingrid Thompson-Sellers. International Journal on ELearning. Norfolk: 2008. Vol. 7, Iss. 4; pg. 58.

Abstract

Decisions related to the implementation of audio in e-learning are perplexing for many instructional designers, and deciphering theory and principles related to audio use can be difficult for practitioners.  Yet, as bandwidth on the Internet increases, digital audio is becoming more common in online courses.  This article provides a review of relevant literature and the results of a survey conducted with instructional
designers to determine what, why, when, and how they implemented audio in their e-learning courseware.

Click here for the article in full-text.

E-Learning Incorporation: An Exploratory Study of Three South African Higher Education Institutions

by: Wanjira Kinuthia, Rabelani Dagada. International Journal on ELearning. Norfolk: 2008. Vol. 7, Iss. 4; pg. 623.

Abstract

This article reports on the findings of a research study that was conducted to explore the types of  Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in use in higher education in South Africa.  Specifically, the goal of the study was to explore how e-learning is being used for teaching and learning purposes.  Data were collected from interviews with educators and instructional designers at three universities in Johannesburg and Pretoria. Data also came from observation of physical and virtual classrooms, and Learning Management Systems (LMS), as well as institutional (print and electronic) documents related to the use of ICT in instructional environments. Data analysis indicated that resident universities and distance learning universities differ in their missions and approaches to e-learning. A variety of tools including  various software, LMS, and print resources are being incorporated into instruction.  However, there are barriers to e-learning including large class sizes, limited bandwidth, time, and financial limitations. Despite the barriers, e-learning integration continues, and learners are enthusiastic in engaging in activities, subsequently fostering ICT integration in instruction.

Click here for the article in full-text.

Learning objects, learning objectives and learning design

by Fernando Alonso, Genoveva López, Daniel Manrique, José María Viñes. Innovations in Education and Teaching International. London: Nov 2008. Vol. 45, Iss. 4; pg. 38.

Abstract

Educational research and development into e-learning mainly focuses on the inclusion of new technological features without taking into account psycho-pedagogical concerns that are likely to improve a learner’s cognitive process in this new educational category.  This paper presents an instructional model that combines  objectivist and constructivist learning theories.   The model is based on the concept of a learning objective which is composed of a set of learning objects.  A software tool, called the Instruction Aid System (IAS), has been developed to guide instructors through the development of learning objectives and the execution of the analysis and design phases of the proposed instructional model. Additionally, a blended approach to the learning process in Web-based distance education is also presented.  This approach combines various event-based activities: self-paced learning, live e-learning and the use of face-to-face contact in  classrooms.

Click here for the article in full-text.

The Impact of Web-Based Lecture Technologies on Current and Future Practices in Learning and Teaching (April 2008)

by: Maree Gosper, David Green, Margot McNeill, Rob Phillips, Greg Preston, Karen Woo.

This is the final report of the project, The Impact of Web-based Lecture Technologies on
Current and Future Practice in Learning and Teaching, which was funded by the Carrick
Institute for Learning and Teaching in Higher Education through its 2006 Competitive Grants
Scheme. The duration of the project was from 1 August 2006 to 28 March 2008.
The project, led by Macquarie University, was a cross institutional collaboration of Innovative
Research Universities of Australia – Murdoch University, Flinders University and the University
of Newcastle.
The aim of the project was to investigate how web-based lecture technologies – (Lectopia and
similar technologies) can be used to best effect to support learning and teaching.

Click here to read the full report.

The tortoise and the hare enigma in e-transformation in Japanese and Korean higher education

by Colin Latchem, Insung Jung, Kumiko Aoki, Ali Ekrem Ozkul. British Journal of Educational Technology. London: Jul 2008. Vol. 39, Iss. 4; pg. 610

Abstract (Summary)

Japan and Korea have highly developed information and communications technology infrastructures and have recently reformed their higher education systems and encouraged e-transformation.  However, Japanese universities have not embraced e-learning as wholeheartedly as their Korean counterparts.  The paper concludes that this is due to governmental and institutional failure to develop a cogent vision and
strategic plan for e-learning, to recognise the need for fundamental shifts in organisational cultures and structures and pedagogy and to provide training, funding, recognition and reward for such development.
It attributes this to differences in the cultural perspectives, values and customs of the two countries’ policy makers, managers and faculty members.  The findings are seen to hold important lessons for other
countries embarking on e-transformation.

eBook: Future directions in distance learning and communications technology

Future Directions in Distance Learning and Communication Technologies

by Timothy K. Shih and Jason C. Hung, editors

“This book summarizes theoretical studies and practical solutions for engineers, educational professionals, and graduate students in the research areas of e-learning, distance education, and instructional designs. Readers will find solutions and research directions in this interesting book”

Published 2007 | 297 pages | 1599043785 (electronic book) | View eBook!