Dr. Ruth Reynard

Yes, rather than simply using technology to create "busy work" and additional tasks for students. So true...

Yes, I love your example of YouTube, John. There are many other sites now too that draw in the user to both viewing and publishing their own work - the essence of the Internet! It is this that can totally transform learning environments.

I totally agree, John. In fact how many scenarios have we experienced where technology is purchased with a hope that someone uses it and it most often is left untouched...? It is vital that the teaching method, instructional design, and mode of delivery are the purpose behind the technology use.

Yes and it predisposes the instructor to distributed learning which is a great asset, John, to face-to-face and online classes.

Indeed - holistic is that inclusive approach to teaching and learning :)

Yes, John, I agree..there are various kinds of skills that can be developed as a result of blended learning. I also think it can provide a great balance between individual and group learning and encourages the instructor to be intentional about each instructional exchange.

Hi John, Your cruises sound great :) Yes, I can remember DOS before Windows and how tedious it was to code in every command! The Internet does provide interaction and connectivity that can enhance any learning environment. The other great thing about the Internet is that it creates a published environment and encourages participation at a much higher level as a result.

Yes, Alex. The Internet has changed teaching and learning forever in my opinion. There still are fears about what will happen to what we have come to recognize as regular instruction and often students can be fearful that they might become less important and less individual in such environments. The most amazing characteristics of the Internet, however, are that through this technology we can create and sustain direct connections with students within the larger class group - therefore providing almost tutorial instruction with students while still maintaining the larger class interactions and flow.

Good questions, Jack. I agree that initially this can cause students worry - I know it did for me when I was first introduced to the whole idea of email connections without going directly to my professor :) Of course the more you work online with students the more you realize that although it takes a lot of effort to create connections and develop communities of learners with students, when it happens successfully, the connections can be much stronger than in a face-to-face class. I'm interested in reading more from others on this subject...