The online learning idea book: 95 proven ways to enhance technology-based and blended learning, P. Shank (Eds.). Pfeiffer, San Francisco, (2007)

Abstract

(create) The use of technology for learning was once a new idea. The widespread use of computer networks, especially the Internet, made even greater uses of technology for learning inevitable. The Internet and computer networks afford opportunities for learning that folks who were openly skeptical only a few years ago are beginning to employ. These same networks bring endless junk mail, pop-up ads, information overload, viruses, techno-anxiety, information of dubious (or worse) value, and too often, boring, unengaging online instruction. It shouldn't be this way. Learning takes time, contact with and input from others, realistic activities, and support. Many people have built instructional materials, online and offline, that are engaging and enjoyable, and you'll see many examples of these in this book. Many of these ideas are quite easy to adopt or adapt, and they are likely to prompt some great new ideas of your own (that we hope you'll share). The purpose of this book is to showcase proven ideas from some of the world's most creative instructors, instructional designers and developers, trainers, programmers, media developers, artists, and others that can be adopted or adapted to make learning more fun and engaging. They are meant to improve your skills and spark new ideas of your own. Each idea was submitted by the person or persons identified at the end of the idea. Many contributors submitted their own ideas and some submitted them on behalf of a team of colleagues. One great use for a book such as this is to use the ideas as jumping off points for learning and for generating new ideas. Brainstorming and discussion of ideas by interested groups of people can produce spectacular energy and results. Use the ideas to enhance discussions of creativity, design, selecting instructional strategies, navigation, media and graphics, and other important instructional design topics. Discuss the applicability of various ideas to a variety of projects. Consider how the ideas would be implemented differently in classroom, blended, and online learning. Discuss how the ideas embody current research and thinking about learning. Use the ideas to brainstorm new ideas. Implement some of the ideas and evaluate the results. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)