Chapter 13. Assistive Technology On-Line Instruction:
Expanding the Dimensions of Learning Communities

Overview

Distance education, or mediated learning, is changing how many teachers and learners access education. Although it may not be the ideal mode for everyone, many students who have enrolled in Web-based courses appreciate the ease and flexibility of attending classes at their convenience. Professionals who enroll in courses for purposes of continuing education while working full-time value the opportunity to earn advanced degrees from universities located in other cities or states. In addition, accessing education via the Internet enables individuals who may have mobility, transportation, or physical or medical limitations to participate more fully. The chapter describes a successful approach to an on-line course taught by the author. Some of the teaching and learning models used included: a) Experiential learning, b) Learner-centered education, c) Lifelong learning, and d) Cooperative learning. The instructor always allowed criticism and praise of how the course was moving along, and made efforts to help out with Web-based problems that people were experiencing. Overall, the author was very satisfied with the way the course worked out, and recommends that other courses be taught through distance learning.

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