Module 2: Effective Practices in Online Learning

Recommended Readings and Web Search

Readings:

1. Read/Review and make notes on the following Internet Resources:
   
   
   • Research-Supported Best Practices for Developing Online Learning
     Sunal, D. W., Sunal, C. S., Odell, M. R., & Sundberg, C. A. (2003). Research-Supported Best Practices for Developing Online Learning . Retrieved March 26, 2009, from The Journal of Interactive Online Learning.
     

     This paper reviews many studies of online learning and identifies a significant lack of solidly-based research. Please read (at a minimum) the summary of the reviewed research (Table 1) and a useful categorization/summary (Table 6) and checklist (Table 7) of best practices in the four categories of student behaviors, faculty-student interactions, technology support, and learning environment.
     
     

   • Best Practices for Online Business Education
     Grandzol, J. R., & Grandzol, C. J. (2006, June). Best Practices for Online Business Education . Retrieved March 26, 2009, from The International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning, Vol 7, No 1 (2006), ISSN: 1492-3831
     

     This paper provides a "quick reference for those interested in designing online business courses and programs." Please read (at minimum) the section on Accreditation and review Table 2 which provides a summary of online best practices divided into the categories of course design and delivery, student services and administration. The paper stresses a focus on consistency that leads to achievement of program outcomes.
     
     

   • Administration COURSE REVIEW FORM
     

     A number of Administration courses were recently reviewed using this Course Review Form. Please examine the form and consider how the review characteristics that are use relate to the information contained in the two papers referred to above.
     
     

   • IMPLEMENTING THE SEVEN PRINCIPLES: Technology as Lever
     Chickering, A. W., & Ehrmann, S. C. (2009, January). IMPLEMENTING THE SEVEN PRINCIPLES: Technology as Lever . Retrieved March 27, 2009, from The TLT Group.
     

     Optional reading - Read this update on the seven principles that includes comments on rating faculty adoption of technology activities.
     
     

Web Search:

1. a. Search the Internet using keywords such as: "best practices online learning", "effective practices online learning", "instructional design online learning".
2. Refine your search by using additional or alternate words and phrases that help you to focus in on the most relevant websites.
3. Locate and review at least 3 additioanl sites related to the topics in this unit, and make notes (in your Learning Journal) on the information contained in these web sites.
   
   
   Caution:
   • When you find an interesting site related to your search, consider who has developed the site and what their motives might be.
   • Look for sites sponsored by reputable organizations that present objective, well-documented information.
   • You may want to avoid sites that advertise products for sale - their primary goal may be to sell you their product rather than to inform you in an objective manner about the topic.

1. Effective Practice with e-Learning
2. E-Learning Guidelines
3. Effective Practices Wiki

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Online Learning Consultants, Ltd. (2009)