Asynchronous learning networks: priorities for software development

ABSTRACT

Asynchronous Learning Networks (ALNs), a form of elearning, use computer-mediated communication to sup-port the delivery of courses in which anytime, anywhere access to interactions among the students and between the instructor/facilitator and the students are key ele-ments. What constitutes an ALN software platform that supports and enhances collaborative learning? How can existing learning theories and small group interaction models guide the design of effective environments for ALNs? What kinds of new software tools would best im-prove support for "teacher immediacy" behaviors and active, collaborative learning by students? What are the most important interface issues to accommodate multi-cultural and multinational faculty and student groups using ALN platforms.

REFERENCES

• 1: Rena M. Palloff , H. Keith Pratt, Lessons from the Cyberspace Classroom: Realities of Online Teaching, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New York, NY, 2001
• 2: Starr Roxanne Hiltz , Ricki Goldman, Learning Together Online: RESEARCH ON ASYNCHRONOUS LEARNING NETWORKS, Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, Inc., Mahwah, NJ, 2004
• 3: Bonk, C.J. Collaborative Tools for E-learning, 2002. http://www.clomedia.com/content/templates/clo_featur e.asp?articleid=41&zoneid=30
• 4: Mehrabian, A. Silent Messages. Wadsworth Publish-ing Co., Belmont, CA, USA, 1971.
• 5: Arbaugh, J. B. How instructor immediacy behaviors affect student satisfaction and learning in web-based courses. Business Communication Quarterly 64, 4 (2001), 42--54.
• 6: Foley, G., and Schuck, S. Web-based conferencing: Pedagogical asset or constraint? Australian Journal of Education and Technology 14, 2 (1998), 122--140.
• 7: Morse, K. Does one size fit all? Exploring asynchro-nous learning in a multicultural environment. JALN, 2 (2003), 37--55.

INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.4 INFORMATION SYSTEMS APPLICATIONS
      H.4.3 Communications Applications

Additional Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.5 INFORMATION INTERFACES AND PRESENTATION (I.7)
      H.5.3 Group and Organization Interfaces

General Terms:
Design

Keywords:
ALN, computer-mediated communication, e-learning, online learning