Web-based Instruction in Organizations: Impact, Advantages and Disadvantages

Abstract

Many organizations are currently implementing Web-based instruction (WBI). Approaches to WBI vary according to the type of organization as well as the objectives to be accomplished. Companies interested in retraining the workforce and teaching employees new skills are mostly concerned with effective information-delivery approaches. Organizations focusing on the implementation of lifelong learning and education—such as educational institutions—are increasingly moving away from mere information-delivery approaches (posting on-line syllabi and lecture notes) to incorporating effective interaction-based approaches (utilizing discussions and virtual rooms). Both approaches to WBI are important to accomplish long-term versus short-term goals, as well as conceptualization versus task-oriented outcomes. This chapter provides an overview of teaching methods focusing primarily on strategies adopted by educational institutions implementing WBI.