The Classroom: Online

The online classroom features a near-paperless environment built around a web site and presentation software. This evolving educational paradigm provides numerous opportunities that must consider all learning types (visual, auditory, kinesthetic). We begin with a discussion of web site design including organization, use of themes, Windows-to-Unix conversion, and access control. Next, we review many of the common tasks involved in creating and delivering effective electronic presentations such as the role of the laptop, figure downloads and scans, equations, and use of color and animation. A student survey was conducted to acquire data on the relative acceptance of a specific implementation. Results indicate that students liked the web because it was organized, easy to use, and helpful. Conversely, they were less positive about the presentation software and preferred transparencies, a white board, and paper handouts. The reasons are not obvious but perhaps it’s a resistance to change or a clash with their learning style.