Dale A. Harris
Andy DiPaolo
Stanford University

Abstract:
For the past five years, Stanford has been involved in developing the capability to offer courses to remote learners over the Internet. This has evolved into a robust operation, which over the past year has offered 180 courses to approximately 4000 distance learners. More recently, the Department of Electrical Engineering has extended its offerings so that it is now possible to earn course credits sufficient to obtain a Master's degree and academic certificates entirely online. In this paper, we discuss the issues of institutional policy which have emerged as we have gone through this evolution. Our experience at Stanford will be discussed within the broader framework of institutional policy and of the general institutional resistance to change in higher education. A version of this paper was presented at the Fourth International Conference on Asynchronous Learning Networks held in New York in November 1998.

Linda Carswell, Pete Thomas, Marian Petre, Blaine Price, Mike Richards
Centre for Informatics Education Research
Computing Department, The Open University, UK

Abstract:
This paper describes how the Open University, as a large distance education institution, has used the Internet to transform the learning environment for distance students. We review the process involved in understanding the requirements of distance education students and how they can be supported via the Internet. We describe the tools developed in our Internet-based implementation and how they address the needs of geographically remote learners: electronic student registration, electronic assignment handling, electronic tutorial sessions, and electronic examinations. The paper reflects on the impact of this implementation and the gains in using the Internet for global distance learners, realised in flexible study practices and efficient communiqués.

Ian C. Reid
Coordinator: Online Services
Flexible Learning Centre
University of South Australia

Abstract:
Universities are being pressured from a range of forces to move into delivery of courses via online methods. While the literature is replete with promises for the use of information technology (IT) in the teaching and learning environment of higher education institutions, it is difficult for those institutions to take a strategic and informed approach to its implementation. This paper details the difficulties that can arise in selecting and implementing online delivery solutions and seeks to survey various approaches that universities can take to address these difficulties from an organisational perspective. Key questions are then proposed that must be answered if academic managers are to be strategic in their selection of IT resources for teaching and learning, in order to best add value to their teaching and learning environment by providing access for students to asynchronous learning networks. Amongst the critical issues that need to be addressed are scalability, interoperability, consistency and flexibility. A progress report of an implementation of a strategic institution-wide approach to online delivery at the University of South Australia that addresses these key questions is then presented.

Mary Graham,Lecturer, School of Economics
Helen Scarborough, Lecturer, School of Economics
Christine Goodwin, Computer Mediated Communication Coordinator
Deakin University

Abstract:
Computer mediated communication (CMC) is used to foster a collaborative learning environment in a number of courses within the Faculty of Business and Law at Deakin University. This paper examines how this technology has been implemented at the undergraduate level in the School of Economics and some key issues arising from this experience are identified and discussed. Although the practical experience described has been gained from a particular discipline based initiative, the issues raised pertain to all disciplines. The potential provided by integrating technology into the curriculum is exciting, however this paper highlights some of the areas that need consideration when implementing an asynchronous learning network (ALN). No definitive guidelines have been provided, rather the way to maximise educational outcomes will only be found as experience and practical use is extended and shared within the academic community.

Kimberly Dawn Blum
University of Phoenix, Online Instructor

Abstract:
This article has been withdrawn at the request of the author.

Richard H. Lytle
Director, Oregon Master of Software Engineering
Oregon College of Engineering & Computer Science
Oregon University System

Abstract:
Improved workforce learning is imperative for individual knowledge workers, for companies that depend on knowledge workers, and for the U.S. economy. Meeting this need requires innovative, restructured education and training organizations; integrated knowledge drawn from currently isolated sources; and widespread replacement of the traditional classroom with appropriate learning delivery technologies. In this concept paper, a powerful and holistic solution to workforce learning is proposed, called Learning Systems Integration (LSI). While similar to current U.S. corporate and military training as a process, LSI will be significantly different in practice because it will target knowledge workers, integrate knowledge from many sources, and utilize asynchronous technology as an essential component of learning. This paper concludes with an assessment of the prospects for improved knowledge workforce learning.