Distance Learning in Higher Education: A Programmatic Approach to Planning, Design Instruction, Evaluation, and Accreditation » (New Edition)

This useful resource describes best practices for designing online programs and courses. Translating research on the learning characteristics of adult university students and their experiences with online learning into practical guidelines, the authors address topics such as: program and course planning, design and delivery; multicultural and gender issues; program evaluation; student evaluation of online teaching, and institutional and program accreditation. The text includes resources such as online course materials and assessment tasks that are culturally responsive and implement the strategies presented in the book.

1 Concepts of Distance Learning 1

2 Gender 16

3 Culture 29

4 Strategic Planning 46

5 Program and Course Design 62

6 Assessment of Student Learning 79

7 Online Discussions 93

8 Program Evaluation 108

9 Institution and Program Accreditation 123

10 Course Evaluation 133

11 Summary and Conclusion 146

App. A Example Extract from a Strategic Plan 165

App. B Analytic Participation Rubric 166

App. C Evidence of Quality Distance Learning Programs 167

Glossary 173

References 179

Index 197