Introduction
to Distance Education
Deb Gearhart, DSU
and
Dr. Haomin Wang, DSU
Course
Description:
This course is an analysis of the history, philosophy, design, and evolution of distance
learning systems. Distance learning is a
world-wide concept and the course uses examples from many countries to emphasize
institutional, program and course design methods and approaches. The course assumes a system perspective in the
analysis of distance education and the distance learner.
The various components of distance learning systems are introduced and
overviewed including a) course development and design; b) course production; c) course
delivery; d) learner support; e) evaluation of courses and the methods of cybernetic
control of both student performance and instructional effectiveness; and f) research and
evaluation of distance learning systems.
Graduates of the program will:
 | understand the capabilities of the computer, its impact on education, business, industry and government; and will be able to adapt to, understand, evaluate and make use of new and emerging innovations in computer and information technology. |
| use systematic problem-solving and research-based human/computer interaction practices in the development of computer-assisted instructional programs. |
| be aware of current trends and issues in computer education, distance education, electronic communications, computer hardware and software. |
| use telecommunications-based tools to integrate information into the classroom and the curriculum. |
| be proficient in finding, evaluating, and using current educational research to support continuous improvement in their profession. |
Project
Exhibits:
Paper
Online Course