This paper examines undergraduate student perceptions of the learning utility of video podcasts. The perceived and actual effectiveness of the technology was assessed by written questionnaire, focus groups and assessment results. The podcasts were perceived as effective in supporting learning, largely by offering a flexible and visual learning…

"Learning Theory and Online Technologies" offers a powerful overview of the current state of elearning, a foundation of its historical roots and growth, and a framework for distinguishing among the major approaches to elearning. It effectively addresses pedagogy (how to design an effective online environment for learning), evaluation (how to know…

This paper discusses how modern technologies are changing the teacher-student-content relationships from the conception to the delivery of so-called "distance" education courses. The concept of Distance Education has greatly evolved in the digital era of 21st Century. With the widespread use and access to the Internet, exponential growth…

In this paper, a methodological educational proposal based on constructivism and collaborative learning theories is described. The suggested approach has been successfully applied to a subject entitled "Computer Architecture and Engineering" in a Computer Science degree in the University of La Laguna in Spain. This methodology is…

This paper focuses on the use of mobile-wireless technology for education. The first section is an introduction which provides a definition of the terms. The second section discusses implementation of mobile-wireless technology in schools, providing examples from Latrobe Junior High School, where wireless laptops were issued to students and River…

This paper examines how educators can use technology to guide the constructivist approach to science education, and discusses techniques explicitly applicable for today's Web format. The paper begins by addressing the following pertinent questions for education in this new era: What is Education? Where is the classroom? Where are the students?…

There is a tendency to equate electronic learning or e-learning with distance learning. In fact, e-learning covers a broad spectrum, from learning which is primarily contact based to learning which is 100% distance. Thus, each course can be measured by the proportion of learning and teaching that is intended to be conducted electronically. The…

Examines the changing role of the teacher in the use of educational information and communication technologies (ICT). Explores several key issues, including effects of ICT on teaching and learning, the changing role of the teacher in constructivist learning environments, and new skills teachers may be expected to acquire in order to make fruitful…

This article discusses the effects of the Regional Technology Assistance Program (RETA) on the teaching practices and collegial behaviors of its participants and instructors. It presents findings that suggest that, as a result of their involvement in RETA's ongoing, peer-directed, constructivist-based professional development workshops, teacher…

This paper proposes a context-driven model of instructional design incorporating constructivist-oriented methods and strategies for structuring meaningful, purposeful learning environments into the framework of a traditional systematic approach. An evaluation study is also presented that investigated the effects of implementing the context-driven…

Describes a blended introductory instructional design course at Brigham Young University (Utah) that was evaluated, revised, and re-evaluated. The case is an example of how a faculty member teaching a blended course must constantly determine the balance between face-to-face and online components. (Author/MES)

Twelve state-of-the-art articles discuss current developments educational media and technology. Topics examined include research, information technology, networking, and telecommunications. Four articles are also published as ERIC Digests. All of the articles contain references. (SLW)

This report provides baseline information from the six schools in Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, rural Texas, and urban Texas participating in the Applying Technology to Restructuring and Learning (ATRL) project, which seeks to create replicable models of constructivist learning environments supported by technology. The information in…

This paper presents a framework and model for design of open-ended learning environments (OELEs). First, an overview is presented that addresses key characteristics of OELEs, including: use of meaningful, complex contexts; provision of tools and resources; learner reflection and self-monitoring; and social, material, or technological scaffolding.…

This guide provides suggestions for using technology (i.e., computers and anything that attaches to computers) as instructional tools in environments that support learning. Chapter 1 offers an overview of learning principles based on constructivist theory, including what constructivism offers the classroom, the role of the student, the role of the…