DURATION : September 15th 1997 - January 27th 1998
SYLLABUS AND TOPICS: This module is for practising teachers/lecturers/resource people who are interested in examining the potential of the Internet for learning. It follows on from a previous module on computer supported cooperative learning. The module is part of an MEd in Telematics (Networked) Learning run by the Centre for the Study of Networked Learning at the University of Sheffield, England. In this module we will examine internet-based technologies which can be used to support online learning, and look at their benefits and drawbacks. There will be an overview of generic information skills resources and subject-based resources. You will be introduced to Hypertext Mark-up Language (HTML), and will design a framework for a networked learning course in your own subject area, including reference to online assessment and evaluation.
ASSESSMENT : You are required to fully participate in the online group work, using Lotus Notes (we provide a client copy for you) and other online media. The module runs on an action research method with considerable experiential learning. With your group members and tutor, you decide on the focus for a course assignment on some aspect of your professional practice as it relates to internet-based learning. Assessment of the course assignment is collaborative, by self/peer/tutor, on a Pass/Fail basis.
CREDITS : This course carries 20 UK post-graduate credits.
REQUIREMENTS : This module involves you in considerable online discussion with your peers and tutor, so a good command of English is needed. Much of the benefit on this module comes from your participation in the online group work.
There is a 3 day face to face meeting in Sheffield at the beginning of the module September (15-16-17th) which covers Web authoring using HTML; Internet-based vdeo-conferencing; use of Lotus Notes; an opportunity to meet other course participants and tutors and develop a learning relationship with them. It may, however, be possible for you to join the module without having to attend this meeting if you are already familiar with Web authoring and Lotus Notes.
You are required to study for about 16 hours per week on this course ( it is approximately half of full-time study ). This time is divided between taking part in the online discussion groups where you will be working collaboratively with other course participants; accessing and searching the Web for material related to the course and to your self-chosen course assignment; reading course material in your own time; designing and writing your course assignment; taking part in the collaborative feedback and assessment processes towards the end of the course.
FURTHER INFORMATION : Please contact Professor David McConnell, Course Director: d.mcconnell@sheffield.ac.uk or visit our Web site at: http://www.shef.ac.uk/uni/projects/csnl/