s11131

11131

Student Presentation

Technology Know How: What distance learners need to know
Tia Mayberry, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, mayberry@hawaii.edu

Due to the poor economy and high unemployment rate many adults are returning to school, resulting in higher enrollment and the need for additional classes and instructors. Likewise, an increase in the number of online classes that are offered brings into question reasons why students chose to enroll. For some it is a matter of finances; for others it is the flexibility factor. The expense of learning online is less than on campus as students can save money on daycare, food, and fuel costs. Many students simply like the convenience of reading and completing assignments at more flexible times than they would be able to in a traditional classroom. Unfortunately, students come to online classes with different knowledge and skills, making it difficult for the instructor to address diverse technology needs. The researcher conducted a study to determine the technology skills and knowledge that distance learners need to have in order to succeed in online classes. The subjects of the study were online instructors who participated in an electronic survey made up of questions concerning technology skills. The results showed a similarity of skills among different subject areas.

All Audiences technology, skills, distance education Thank you for taking the time to review my abstract.