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Interactive Technology Learning

The last possibility to be discussed for learning media is the use of interactive technology. In this case the computer is the primary delivery system for learning with students working directly at computer displays. Here, and I consider this most unfortunate, there are very few examples of full courses used for distance learning.

At least two types or aspects of computer based interactive courses need to be reviewed. We consider first material based on computer networks, and then courses build around the personal computer. These may eventually merge, as technology changes.

It is my strong belief that highly interactive multimedia technology based courses offer the best possibilities for the future of distance learning. Yet they are still not being developed, even on an experimental basis. A major experiment should be conducted in developing and carefully evaluating such courses. Evaluation with thousands of students should compare these new types of courses with traditional courses involving the same material.

• Network-based Courses
• Learning with Personal Computers
• Combinations