Abstract
study utilized the World Wide Web and a "Class Page" to evaluate interaction strategies in a distance education setting. Participants were primarily elementary school teachers (n= 47 graduate students) who completed survey instruments concerning their participation on the "Class Page"", interactions with both the instructor and other students, and utilization of linked Web resources. An initial survey regarding students’ computer literacy skills and usage proficiencies was followed by seven additional surveys which focused upon "Page"” use and interaction patterns. Among the findings were: student views regarding the value of getting to know fellow classmates shifted from zero percent (Week 2) to 88 percent (Week 15); students judging they were able freely to express their views went from 11 percent (Week 2) to 91 percent (Week 15). Increases were also noted concerning student out-of-class participation, enjoyment using the Internet, use of e-mail, and appreciation of the distance environment tools for encouraging involvement and interaction. Although many students questioned the usefulness of the "Page" at the beginning of the semester, the final survey found all students viewed the "Page" as beneficial. Analysis of the data found both interaction and class involvement were greatly enhanced through the "Class Page" and the Web based tools which supported the “Page” in this distance education environment.
Recommended Citation
Thompson, Jay C. Jr.; Malm, Loren D.; Malone, Bobby G.; Nay, Fred W.; Oliver, Brad E.; and Saunders, Nancy G.
(1998)
"Enhancing Classroom Interaction in Distance Education Utilizing the World Wide Web,"
Mid-Western Educational Researcher: Vol. 11:
Iss.
4, Article 3.
Available at:
https://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/mwer/vol11/iss4/3
