A. W. (Tony) Bates: Technology, e-learning and Distance Education [PDF]

This book is an essential guide to the use of technology in flexible and distance learning. The author argues that technology is not inherently good or bad for teaching – it’s the way it is used that matters. Teachers and administrators therefore need a good understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of different media and technologies for teaching at a distance. This update of the highly successful first edition includes:* criteria and guidelines for the design and delivery of effective teaching, using modern learning technologies* focus on the use of the Internet for distance and flexible education* looking at the design and use of emerging technologies such as web-based video-conferencing and speech recognition* emphasis on organizational and management issues and how these influence the effective use of technology* attention to the integration of online teaching with campus-based face-to-face teaching.This guide’s focus is on basic principles and general guidelines which means that it applies to whatever technologies emerge in the future. It is essential reading not just for those specializing in flexible and distance learning and distance education, but anyone concerned with the integration of technology with teaching.