Web-Based Education: A Review of an Upcoming Educational Method :: Essays Papers

Web-Based Education: A Review of an Upcoming Educational Method Over the past 20 years, there has been a drastic change in technology. One example is in education. The development of the internet has affected the way in which we teach and learn. Web based education is a relatively new term. There are many methods and techniques for delivering instruction through the web. Academic courses can be enhanced with web-based links, or the courses can be delivered completely on the web. By definition web-based education refers to material found on the World Wide Web which provides information to enhance a person’s knowledge (Virtual Apex Internet Solutions, 2005). Although it is a very broad term, it has just recently had a major impact on the learning development of children. Web based education includes, but is not limited to; E-learning systems, online Universities, individual classroom websites, and general research conducted with the internet (SDSM&T & Sun Microsystems, 2002). Critics argue both the pros and cons of web-based tec hnology; therefore in this paper we will present several opposing viewpoints. Within the development of web based education it is important to discuss the Web-Based Education Commission, which is very influential in the steady progress of positive web-based education (SDSM&T & Sun Microsystems, 2002). As future teachers we feel this topic is essential to being successful in the classroom. As we previously mentioned, web-based education refers to many things on the internet. One example is E-learning systems. E-learning systems refer to the use of network technologies to create, foster, deliver, and facilitate learning, anytime and anywhere (Iqbal, Jones-Harris, & Gordon, 2004). One example is Blackboard. Blackboard is an online tool for teachers and students to enhance communication and learning. Blackboard provides many tools useful to teachers. These useful tools include; discussion boards, chat rooms, quizzes, digital drop boxes to submit assignments, contact information, and much more. Personally we feel that Blackboard has had a major impact on our involvement in classes. In comparison to Blackboard, there is also WebCT. WebCT is a more elaborate example of an e-learning system. This includes; courses, assessments, communication, and content presentations comparable to Blackboard (McCormack & Jones, 2000). Both Blackboard and WebCT can be used to enha nce a classroom learning environment. E-learning is one of the fastest growing trends within colleges and universities.