Online Learning for Teachers / Rebecca J. Kesner, Ed.

This newsletter contains two articles on teacher use of educational technology. The first article, "Online Learning for Teachers," (Stephen G. Barkley) explains that online learning has the ability to multiply both the effectiveness and efficiency of traditional onsite training by eliminating the need for travel. It describes the five components of learning that are the foundation of effective professional development (knowledge acquisition, modeling, practice, observation, and coaching) and discusses the blending of online and onsite learning. Finally, it examines the pros and cons of online learning (e.g., teachers can study and learn at any time, though the practice, observation, and coaching components are better done in the real world of onsite training). The second article,"Counterpoint: Why Teachers Don't Use Technology," (Larry Cuban) explains that out of every 10 U.S. teachers, fewer than 2 are serious users of computers and other information technology in the classroom. Five possible reasons for this include contradictory advice from experts, intractable working conditions, demands from others, inherent unreliability of technology (without technical support), and disrespect for teachers' opinions. A sidebar describes what to look for in online curricula. (SM)

Streamlined Seminar, v20 n1 Fall 2001. ericd

Microfiche. [Washington D.C.]: ERIC Clearinghouse microfiches : positive.