Abstract
Web-based learning provides many new and potentially integrated educational capabilities to support diverse educators’ and learners’ needs via technology. The growing development of the Internet and increasing web-based technologies are influencing the dynamics of teaching and learning on many different levels. This chapter focuses on the implementation of the Ford Partnership for Advanced Studies web-based curriculum in two local high school settings. It includes data from the students’ perceptions of the program and how they feel about the web-based curriculum in relation to a traditional curriculum. In addition, this chapter examines other authentic learning methods and how these methods affect students’ learning. Other aspects of web-based learning are analyzed and presented in the chapter. Web-based technology is not about replacing education as we know it; it is about combining contextual applications with life-long learning.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Contextual Learning: Contextual learning is a method of instruction that enables students to apply new knowledge and skills to real-life situations.
Asynchronous: Asynchronous communication is a type of communication that occurs with a time delay between steps in the dialog, allowing participants to respond at their own convenience.
Distance Education/Learning: Distance education/learning is a system and a process that connects learners and instructors who are in different locations.
Computer-Based Training: Computer-based training is an interactive instructional approach in which the computer, taking the place of an instructor, provides a series of stimuli to the student ranging from questions to be answered to choices or decisions to be made. The computer then provides feedback based on the student’s response.
E-Learning: E-learning is a term referring broadly to technology-based learning. It focuses on Web-based delivery methods but is sometimes used in a broader context. It was used initially by corporate universities, but now is being embraced by academia.
WebQuest: WebQuest is an inquiry-oriented activity in which some or all of the information that students interact with comes from resources on the Internet.
Web-Based Learning: Web-based learning consists of instruction programs using attributes and resources of the Web to create a meaningful learning and interactive environment.
Synchronous: Synchronous communication is a type of two-way communication that occurs with virtually no time delay, allowing participants to respond in real time.
Authoring Software/Tools: Authoring software/tools are high-level computer programs designed for creating computer-based training, interactive presentations, and multimedia. Commands are often presented as simple terms, concepts, and icons. Authoring software translates these commands into programming code.
Self-Paced Learning: Self-paced learning is education in which the learner is on their own, studying without interaction with others.
Distributed Learning: Distributed learning is a system and process that uses a variety of technologies, learning methodologies, online collaboration, and instructor facilitation to achieve applied learning results not possible from traditional education in a truly flexible, anytime and anywhere fashion.
Web-Based Training: Web-based training is a form of computer-based training in which the training material resides on pages accessible through the Web.