*SFU* finds new ways to use the World Wide Web
A computer in every home could be the
slogan for the 21st
century - but is it an efficient tool for learning?
Online courses are available in almost every subject matter, and a
new course plans to teach the teachers how to make the best use of
technology.
Web-based Instruction is a new program offered by the Learning and
Instructional Development Centre at *Simon* *Fraser* *University* and
through the university's continuing education department.
"Technology is so prevalent now in education, but educators
themselves need to catch up," said Jill Jodrey, an instructional
developer at the development centre.
"Technology can embrace learning, but many people don't know how
technology can best be used."
For example, Jodrey noted, teachers can use online moderated
discussions through which students can post their thoughts and ideas
on a topic in an "asynchronous" - or not live - forum.
"It's great, especially for learners who have a hard time speaking
up in class because they're shy or their language skills aren't too
good," Jodrey explained. "I've found a lot of times these online
asynchronous discussions often go a lot deeper because people have
time to think about their response.
"They're often more thoughtful."
The program runs for 24 weeks and consists of 12 two-week modules.
The first six modules are fully online and explore different topics
in Web-based learning that build upon each other.
"During those first six modules, not only are people getting a
really good view of online learning and incorporating technology,
they're also getting building blocks," Jodrey s! aid. "There's both a
theoretical and a practical component to the (first half of the)
program."
In the second 12-week section, students work on their own projects
and research and write a literature review on a topic related to
their field.
The projects are approximately equivalent to 15 hours of learning,
Jodrey said.
The course started as DWeb and was developed by Vancouver-based
Lucio Teles in 1999 to train instructors on the use of new
technologies and how to teach online.
It was part of Canada's Telelearning National Centres of
Excellence, which were created by the federal government in 1994 -
and funded by Industry Canada - to promote e-learning in Canada.
The centre of excellence partnered up with the *SFU* development
centre and "modified, updated and expanded" the program, Jodrey
said.
"It had to go through a review process by faculty members here at
the university," she said, noting it was eventually given
certificate status through continuing studies.
The Canadian Learning Bank is currently looking at the program to
see if teachers who have taken it can apply for professional
development credits.