Application of the Classification Tree Model in Predicting Learner Dropout Behaviour in Open and Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yasmin, Dr.

2013-01-01

This paper demonstrates the meaningful application of learning analytics for determining dropout predictors in the context of open and distance learning in a large developing country. The study was conducted at the Directorate of Distance Education at the University of North Bengal, West Bengal, India. This study employed a quantitative research…

Integrated methods for teaching population health.

PubMed

Sistrom, Maria Gilson; Zeigen, Laura; Jones, Melissa; Durham, Korana Fiol; Boudrot, Thomas

2011-01-01

The Institute of Medicine recommends reforms to public health education to better prepare the public health workforce. This study addresses the application of two of the recommended reforms in the population health nursing curriculum at one university: use of an ecological model and distance learning methods. Using interdisciplinary faculty, integrated teaching and learning methods, and a multimedia curriculum, this study examined the following question: can distance learning be designed to support learning goals and outcomes specific to an ecological approach and population health concepts in general? Course content was evaluated using students' perception of practice utility and understanding of population health concepts. Integrated teaching methods were evaluated using a scale as well as comparison to other student distance learning experiences within the university. Findings demonstrated that both the ecological model and distance learning methods were successfully used to teach population health to a large nursing student cohort. 2011, SLACK Incorporated.

A Basic Hybrid Library Support Model to Distance Learners in Sudan

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Abdelrahman, Omer Hassan

2012-01-01

Distance learning has flourished in Sudan during the last two decades; more and more higher education institutions offer distance learning programmes to off-campus students. Like on-campus students, distance learners should have access to appropriate library and information support services. They also have specific needs for library and…

Dissemination of evidence-based practice: can we train therapists from a distance?

PubMed

Vismara, Laurie A; Young, Gregory S; Stahmer, Aubyn C; Griffith, Elizabeth McMahon; Rogers, Sally J

2009-12-01

Although knowledge about the efficacy of behavioral interventions for children with ASD is increasing, studies of effectiveness and transportability to community settings are needed. The current study conducted an effectiveness trial to compare distance learning vs. live instruction for training community-based therapists to implement the Early Start Denver Model. Findings revealed: (a) distance learning and live instruction were equally effective for teaching therapists to both implement the model and to train parents; (b) didactic workshops and team supervision were required to improve therapists' skill use; (c) significant child gains occurred over time and across teaching modalities; and (d) parents implemented the model more skillfully after coaching. Implications are discussed in relation to the economic and clinical utility of distance learning.

A Security Framework for Online Distance Learning and Training.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Furnell, S. M.; Onions, P. D.; Bleimann, U.; Gojny, U.; Knahl, M.; Roder, H. F.; Sanders, P. W.

1998-01-01

Presents a generic reference model for online distance learning and discusses security issues for each stage (enrollment, study, completion, termination, suspension). Discusses a security framework (authentication and accountability, access control, intrusion detection, network communications, nonrepudiation, learning resources provider…

Effects of help-seeking in a blended high school Biology class

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deguzman, Paolo

Distance learning provides an opportunity for students to learn valuable information through technology and interactive media. Distance learning additionally offers educational institutions the flexibility of synchronous and asynchronous instruction while increasing enrollment and lowering cost. However, distance education has not been well documented within the context of urban high schools. Distance learning may allow high school students to understand material at an individualized pace for either enrichment or remediation. A successful high school student who participates in distance learning should exhibit high self regulatory skills. However, most urban high school students have not been exposed to distance learning and should be introduced to proper self regulatory strategies that should increase the likelihood of understanding the material. To help facilitate a move into distance learning, a blended distance learning model, the combination of distance learning and traditional learning, will be used. According to O'Neil's (in preparation) revised problem solving model, self regulation is a component of problem solving. Within the Blended Biology course, urban high school students will be trained in help-seeking strategies to further their understanding of genetics and Punnett Square problem solving. This study investigated the effects of help-seeking in a blended high school Biology course. The main study consisted of a help-seeking group (n=55) and a control group (n=53). Both the help-seeking group and the control group were taught by one teacher for two weeks. The help-seeking group had access to Blended Biology with Help-Seeking while the control group only had access to Blended Biology. The main study used a pretest and posttest to measure Genetics Content Understanding, Punnett Square Problem Solving, Adaptive Help-Seeking, Maladaptive Help-Seeking, and Self Regulation. The analysis showed no significant difference in any of the measures in terms of help seeking. However, blended distance learning appeared to work as posttest means increased significantly from the pretest means. Future studies should consider the method of communication for help-seeking and help-giving within a high school distance learning context. Further studies should consider developing instruments to measure the difference in knowing when help is needed versus active choice.

Annotation-Based Learner's Personality Modeling in Distance Learning Context

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Omheni, Nizar; Kalboussi, Anis; Mazhoud, Omar; Kacem, Ahmed Hadj

2016-01-01

Researchers in distance education are interested in observing and modeling learners' personality profiles, and adapting their learning experiences accordingly. When learners read and interact with their reading materials, they do unselfconscious activities like annotation which may be key feature of their personalities. Annotation activity…

Factors Affecting Training Effectiveness in Synchronous, Dispersed Virtual Environments

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-06-01

technology to its technical training programs. Specifically, a distance learning model with instruction provided through 3-D virtual worlds could...ABSTRACT The U.S. Navy is investigating the feasibility of incorporating distance learning technology to its technical training programs. Specifically...15 A. TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTANCE MODEL

Perceptions of the Impact of Online Learning as a Distance-Based Learning Model on the Professional Practices of Working Nurses in Northern Ontario

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carter, Lorraine; Hanna, Mary; Warry, Wayne

2016-01-01

Nurses in Canada face diverse challenges to their ongoing educational pursuits. As a result, they have been early adopters of courses and programs based on distance education principles and, in particular, online learning models. In the study described in this paper, nurses studying at two northern universities, in programs involving online…

Developing an International Distance Education Program: A Blended Learning Approach

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mathur, Ravisha; Oliver, Lisa

2007-01-01

Building a dynamic international distance education program can be a complex operation. The purpose of this paper is to discuss a model for global learning that utilizes a blended learning approach. This paper will describe how a blended learning approach was implemented in an international instructional technology Master's program to the benefit…

E-Learning--Long-Distance and Lifelong Perspectives

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pontes, Elvis, Ed.; Silva, Anderson, Ed.; Guelfi, Adilson, Ed.; Kofuji, Sergio Takeo, Ed.

2012-01-01

Chapters in this book include: (1) Adaptive Model for E-Learning in Secondary School (Todorka Glushkova); (2) Electronic- and Mobile-Learning in Electronics Courses Focused on FPGA (Giovanni Vito Persiano and Sergio Rapuano); (3) Promoting E-Learning in Distance Education Programs in an African Country (Kenneth Addah, Desmond Kpebu and Olivia A.…

Embedded Creativity: Teaching Design Thinking via Distance Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lloyd, Peter

2013-01-01

This paper shows how the design thinking skills of students learning at a distance can be consciously developed, and deliberately applied outside of the creative industries in what are termed 'embedded' contexts. The distance learning model of education pioneered by The Open University is briefly described before the technological…

Distance Teacher Education in Pakistan

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jumani, Nabi Bux; Zai, Zafar Iqbal Yousuf

2009-01-01

Distance education means instruction in which the instructor and student are separated by distance and interact through the assistance of communication technology. Distance education changes the learning relationship from the common, centralized school model to a more decentralized, flexible model. It also reverses social dynamics by bringing…

The Experience of a Distance Learning Organization in a Private Higher Educational Institution in the Republic of Tatarastan (Russia): From Idea to Realization

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Akhmetova, Daniya; Vorontsova, Liliya; Morozova, Ilona Gennadyevna

2013-01-01

The article is devoted to the unique experience of distance learning development in the conditions of Russian reality. The model of distance learning in the Institute of Economics, Management and Law (Kazan city, Russia) is created on the basis of educational sphere diagnosis taking into account foreign and Russian experience. The specificity of…

Engaged Learning through Online Collaborative Public Relations Projects across Universities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smallwood, Amber M. K.; Brunner, Brigitta R.

2017-01-01

Online learning is complementing and even replacing traditional face-to-face educational models at colleges and universities across the world. Distance education offers pedagogical and resource advantages--flexibility, greater access to education, and increased university revenues. Distance education also presents challenges such as learning to…

Community-Embedded Learning Experiences: Putting the Pedagogy of Service-Learning to Work in Online Courses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Becnel, Kim; Moeller, Robin A.

2017-01-01

This paper considers the applicability and adaptability of service-learning pedagogy to online and distance education teaching environments. More specifically, it looks at the community-embedded learning model (CEL), which asks distance students to conduct service projects in their local communities, as manifested in a project undertaken by online…

Analyzing the Quality of Students Interaction in a Distance Learning Object-Oriented Programming Discipline

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carvalho, Elizabeth Simão

2015-01-01

Teaching object-oriented programming to students in an in-classroom environment demands well-thought didactic and pedagogical strategies in order to guarantee a good level of apprenticeship. To teach it on a completely distance learning environment (e-learning) imposes possibly other strategies, besides those that the e-learning model of Open…

Pedagogy and Japanese Culture in a Distance Learning Environment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Anderson, Bodi O.

2012-01-01

Current theoretical models of distance learning are driven by two impetuses: a technical CMC element, and a pedagogical foundation rooted strongly in the Western world, and driven by social constructivism. By and large these models have been exported throughout the world as-is. However, previous research has hinted at potential problems with these…

Getting the Money Right

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Boettcher, Judith V.

2007-01-01

Funding models for distance and online learning are in a state of flux even at some established institutions. A funding model might be instituted at the launch of distance and online learning programs and be quite effective in providing support and investment of new programs--only to be modified over time and under new administrative management or…

Evaluating Quality of Students' Support Services in Open Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nsamba, Asteria; Makoe, Mpine

2017-01-01

Evaluating the quality of students' support services in distance education institutions is vital because by nature Open Distance Learning (ODL) is a high-involvement service industry, with multiple student support service encounters. Most quality evaluation models tend to view quality from the institutional perspective. As a result, little is…

Adaptive distance metric learning for diffusion tensor image segmentation.

PubMed

Kong, Youyong; Wang, Defeng; Shi, Lin; Hui, Steve C N; Chu, Winnie C W

2014-01-01

High quality segmentation of diffusion tensor images (DTI) is of key interest in biomedical research and clinical application. In previous studies, most efforts have been made to construct predefined metrics for different DTI segmentation tasks. These methods require adequate prior knowledge and tuning parameters. To overcome these disadvantages, we proposed to automatically learn an adaptive distance metric by a graph based semi-supervised learning model for DTI segmentation. An original discriminative distance vector was first formulated by combining both geometry and orientation distances derived from diffusion tensors. The kernel metric over the original distance and labels of all voxels were then simultaneously optimized in a graph based semi-supervised learning approach. Finally, the optimization task was efficiently solved with an iterative gradient descent method to achieve the optimal solution. With our approach, an adaptive distance metric could be available for each specific segmentation task. Experiments on synthetic and real brain DTI datasets were performed to demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed distance metric learning approach. The performance of our approach was compared with three classical metrics in the graph based semi-supervised learning framework.

Adaptive Distance Metric Learning for Diffusion Tensor Image Segmentation

PubMed Central

Kong, Youyong; Wang, Defeng; Shi, Lin; Hui, Steve C. N.; Chu, Winnie C. W.

2014-01-01

High quality segmentation of diffusion tensor images (DTI) is of key interest in biomedical research and clinical application. In previous studies, most efforts have been made to construct predefined metrics for different DTI segmentation tasks. These methods require adequate prior knowledge and tuning parameters. To overcome these disadvantages, we proposed to automatically learn an adaptive distance metric by a graph based semi-supervised learning model for DTI segmentation. An original discriminative distance vector was first formulated by combining both geometry and orientation distances derived from diffusion tensors. The kernel metric over the original distance and labels of all voxels were then simultaneously optimized in a graph based semi-supervised learning approach. Finally, the optimization task was efficiently solved with an iterative gradient descent method to achieve the optimal solution. With our approach, an adaptive distance metric could be available for each specific segmentation task. Experiments on synthetic and real brain DTI datasets were performed to demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed distance metric learning approach. The performance of our approach was compared with three classical metrics in the graph based semi-supervised learning framework. PMID:24651858

Motivating Learners in Open and Distance Learning: Do We Need a New Theory of Learner Support?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Simpson, Ormond

2008-01-01

This paper calls for a new theory of learner support in distance learning based on recent findings in the fields of learning and motivational psychology. It surveys some current learning motivation theories and proposes that models drawn from the relatively new field of Positive Psychology, such as the "Strengths Approach", together with…

Drivers of Learning Management System Use in a South African Open and Distance Learning Institution

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Venter, Peet; van Rensburg, Mari Jansen; Davis, Annemarie

2012-01-01

The study on which this article reports examined the determinants of usage of an online learning management system (LMS) by fourth level business students at a South African open and distance learning university using an extension of the widely used technology acceptance model (TAM) as a theoretical basis. A survey was conducted among students at…

Modeling positional effects of regulatory sequences with spline transformations increases prediction accuracy of deep neural networks

PubMed Central

Avsec, Žiga; Cheng, Jun; Gagneur, Julien

2018-01-01

Abstract Motivation Regulatory sequences are not solely defined by their nucleic acid sequence but also by their relative distances to genomic landmarks such as transcription start site, exon boundaries or polyadenylation site. Deep learning has become the approach of choice for modeling regulatory sequences because of its strength to learn complex sequence features. However, modeling relative distances to genomic landmarks in deep neural networks has not been addressed. Results Here we developed spline transformation, a neural network module based on splines to flexibly and robustly model distances. Modeling distances to various genomic landmarks with spline transformations significantly increased state-of-the-art prediction accuracy of in vivo RNA-binding protein binding sites for 120 out of 123 proteins. We also developed a deep neural network for human splice branchpoint based on spline transformations that outperformed the current best, already distance-based, machine learning model. Compared to piecewise linear transformation, as obtained by composition of rectified linear units, spline transformation yields higher prediction accuracy as well as faster and more robust training. As spline transformation can be applied to further quantities beyond distances, such as methylation or conservation, we foresee it as a versatile component in the genomics deep learning toolbox. Availability and implementation Spline transformation is implemented as a Keras layer in the CONCISE python package: https://github.com/gagneurlab/concise. Analysis code is available at https://github.com/gagneurlab/Manuscript_Avsec_Bioinformatics_2017. Contact avsec@in.tum.de or gagneur@in.tum.de Supplementary information Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online. PMID:29155928

Distance Learning for Information Professionals: A Practical, Reality-Driven Model for Postgraduate Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gauld, Craig; Whatley, Patricia

2017-01-01

The expansion of distance learning and an understanding of the benefits it can offer to both the university and the individual has led to the growth of methodologies, pedagogies and models aimed at diversifying and maximising the student experience and increasing student numbers. This paper will address these issues in relation to the…

Business Models Associated with Distance Learning in Higher Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wang, Shouhong; Wang, Hai

2017-01-01

Textbook prices are continuously rising in higher education. This paper analyzes a business model which makes commercial textbooks more expensive, and explains why this issue tends to be more severe in the field of distance learning in higher education. It reports a case of adoption of open educational resources (OER) textbook for an online course…

Teaching Biology at a Distance: Pleasures, Pitfalls, and Possibilities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

MacQueen, Hilary; Thomas, Jeff

2009-01-01

The Open University (OU) has a long and distinguished history of teaching biology at a distance by a supported open learning model. This article examines some of the challenges in delivering biology via distance teaching, explores some of the lessons learned, and discusses the opportunities and hazards of new teaching technologies that the OU has…

Instance-Based Ontology Matching for Open and Distance Learning Materials

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cerón-Figueroa, Sergio; López-Yáñez, Itzamá; Villuendas-Rey, Yenny; Camacho-Nieto, Oscar; Aldape-Pérez, Mario; Yáñez-Márquez, Cornelio

2017-01-01

The present work describes an original associative model of pattern classification and its application to align different ontologies containing Learning Objects (LOs), which are in turn related to Open and Distance Learning (ODL) educative content. The problem of aligning ontologies is known as Ontology Matching Problem (OMP), whose solution is…

Stopping Distances: An Excellent Example of Empirical Modelling.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lawson, D. A.; Tabor, J. H.

2001-01-01

Explores the derivation of empirical models for the stopping distance of a car being driven at a range of speeds. Indicates that the calculation of stopping distances makes an excellent example of empirical modeling because it is a situation that is readily understood and particularly relevant to many first-year undergraduates who are learning or…

Student outcomes of distance learning in nursing education: an integrative review.

PubMed

Patterson, Barbara J; Krouse, Anne M; Roy, Linda

2012-09-01

Distance learning offers a distinctive environment to educate nursing students. While there is a significant body of evidence in the literature related to course, program, and faculty outcomes of distance education, little attention has been given by researchers to evaluate student outcomes, with the exception of student satisfaction. There is a need to evaluate and translate findings related to student outcomes in distance learning into educational practice. Integrative reviews offer one strategy to contribute to evidence-based teaching practice initiatives. A search of available published qualitative and quantitative research on student outcomes of distance learning from 1999 to 2009 was conducted using a number of databases. Astin's Input-Environment-Output conceptual model provided a framework for this review. Thirty-three studies met the inclusion criteria. Bothcognitive and affective student outcomes emerged. The cognitive outcomes were student learning, learning process, and technology proficiency. Affective outcomes included personal and professional growth, satisfaction, and connectedness. Implications, recommendations, and future research are discussed.

Psychological distance reduces literal imitation: Evidence from an imitation-learning paradigm.

PubMed

Hansen, Jochim; Alves, Hans; Trope, Yaacov

2016-03-01

The present experiments tested the hypothesis that observers engage in more literal imitation of a model when the model is psychologically near to (vs. distant from) the observer. Participants learned to fold a dog out of towels by watching a model performing this task. Temporal (Experiment 1) and spatial (Experiment 2) distance from the model were manipulated. As predicted, participants copied more of the model's specific movements when the model was near (vs. distant). Experiment 3 replicated this finding with a paper-folding task, suggesting that distance from a model also affects imitation of less complex tasks. Perceived task difficulty, motivation, and the quality of the end product were not affected by distance. We interpret the findings as reflecting different levels of construal of the model's performance: When the model is psychologically distant, social learners focus more on the model's goal and devise their own means for achieving the goal, and as a result show less literal imitation of the model. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved).

LOL--Limitations of Online Learning--Are We Selling the Open and Distance Education Message Short?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Todhunter, Barrie

2013-01-01

The thesis of this paper is that the open and distance education sector is based on a framework of terminology that is typologically inconsistent and which lacks clarity, and open and distance education teaching and learning models are examined to explore these concerns. The findings of this analysis are then used to assist in the articulation of…

Activity-Based Costing Models for Alternative Modes of Delivering On-Line Courses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Garbett, Chris

2011-01-01

In recent years there has been growth in online distance learning courses. This has been prompted by; new technology such as the Internet, mobile learning, video and audio conferencing: the explosion in student numbers in Higher Education, and the need for outreach to a world wide market. Web-based distance learning is seen as a solution to…

Use of webboards for distance learning: a physical therapy model.

PubMed

Teyhen, D S; Flynn, T; Allison, S

2001-04-01

In today's world of ever-increasing knowledge and technology, mastering the use of information is critical for success. U.S. Army physical therapists have successfully used the Knowledge Management Network as a tool to foster communication, education, and training. The model outlined in this article can serve both as a model for promoting distance learning and as a success story of how to merge today's technology with the medical community to improve productivity and communication.

A Model for Designing Library Instruction for Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rand, Angela Doucet

2013-01-01

Providing library instruction in distance learning environments presents a unique set of challenges for instructional librarians. Innovations in computer-mediated communication and advances in cognitive science research provide the opportunity for designing library instruction that meets a variety of student information seeking needs. Using a…

The enhancement model of ICT competence for the teachers of SMP Terbuka in Central Java to support long distance learning program

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Widowati, Trisnani; Purwanti, Dwi

2017-03-01

ICT-based learning for SMP Terbuka is a manifestation of the first pillar of DEPDIKNAS Strategic Plan 2005-2009, about the use of ICT as the facility of long distance learning. By implementing ICT-based learning, the communication between the teacher and the students is possible to happen although both parties are in differnet places. The problem in implementing ICT-based learning for SMP Terbuka is the low competence of the teachers in ICT mastery, because this research is aimed to formulate the enhancement model of ICT competence for the teachers of SMP Terbuka in Central Java to support long distance learning program. This research shows that Supervised-Teachers and Tutor Teachers Competence in ICT is still low with the average of Supervised-Teachers competence in operating Ms.Word application of 59.6%, Ms.Excel 55.40%, Power Point 43.40% and internet mastery of 41.8%; while the competence of Tutor Teachers is lower with the average of 40.40% in operating Ms. Word, 35.20% in Ms.Excel, 28.00% in Power Point, and 29% in internet mastery. It means that Supervised-Teachers understand ICT, but they do not master it; while Tutor Teachers have just understood ICT and have a low mastery in Ms.Word. The output of this research is: The new findings of the enhancement model of ICT competence for the teachers of SMP Terbuka in Central Java to support long distance learning program.

Representational Distance Learning for Deep Neural Networks

PubMed Central

McClure, Patrick; Kriegeskorte, Nikolaus

2016-01-01

Deep neural networks (DNNs) provide useful models of visual representational transformations. We present a method that enables a DNN (student) to learn from the internal representational spaces of a reference model (teacher), which could be another DNN or, in the future, a biological brain. Representational spaces of the student and the teacher are characterized by representational distance matrices (RDMs). We propose representational distance learning (RDL), a stochastic gradient descent method that drives the RDMs of the student to approximate the RDMs of the teacher. We demonstrate that RDL is competitive with other transfer learning techniques for two publicly available benchmark computer vision datasets (MNIST and CIFAR-100), while allowing for architectural differences between student and teacher. By pulling the student's RDMs toward those of the teacher, RDL significantly improved visual classification performance when compared to baseline networks that did not use transfer learning. In the future, RDL may enable combined supervised training of deep neural networks using task constraints (e.g., images and category labels) and constraints from brain-activity measurements, so as to build models that replicate the internal representational spaces of biological brains. PMID:28082889

Representational Distance Learning for Deep Neural Networks.

PubMed

McClure, Patrick; Kriegeskorte, Nikolaus

2016-01-01

Deep neural networks (DNNs) provide useful models of visual representational transformations. We present a method that enables a DNN (student) to learn from the internal representational spaces of a reference model (teacher), which could be another DNN or, in the future, a biological brain. Representational spaces of the student and the teacher are characterized by representational distance matrices (RDMs). We propose representational distance learning (RDL), a stochastic gradient descent method that drives the RDMs of the student to approximate the RDMs of the teacher. We demonstrate that RDL is competitive with other transfer learning techniques for two publicly available benchmark computer vision datasets (MNIST and CIFAR-100), while allowing for architectural differences between student and teacher. By pulling the student's RDMs toward those of the teacher, RDL significantly improved visual classification performance when compared to baseline networks that did not use transfer learning. In the future, RDL may enable combined supervised training of deep neural networks using task constraints (e.g., images and category labels) and constraints from brain-activity measurements, so as to build models that replicate the internal representational spaces of biological brains.

Will E-Business Shape the Future of Open and Distance Learning?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Oblinger, Diana

2001-01-01

Explores the impact that electronic business is likely to have on the growth of open and distance learning. Discusses global consortia and global virtual universities; technological developments, including Web qualities; value chains; pricing models; the importance of scale; operating efficiencies; and increasing competition. (Author/LRW)

Recognition of Learner's Personality Traits through Digital Annotations in Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Omheni, Nizar; Kalboussi, Anis; Mazhoud, Omar; Kacem, Ahmed Hadj

2017-01-01

Researchers in distance education are interested in observing and modelling of learner's personality profile, and adapting their learning experiences accordingly. When learners read and interact with their reading materials, they do unselfconscious activities like annotation which may be a key feature of their personalities. Annotation activity…

Self-Directed Workplace Literacy Distance Learning for Developmental Disabilities Workers. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Denny, Verna Haskins

The Self-Directed Workplace Literacy Distance Learning Project demonstrated a model workplace literacy program that helped direct care workers in state-operated developmental disabilities facilities improve their literacy skills for a changing workplace. During the project, 268 New York State Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental…

Blurring the Lines: A Blended Learning Model in a Graduate Public Administration Program

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schuhmann, Robert A.; Skopek, Tracy A.

2009-01-01

Despite technological and pedagogical improvements, obstacles continue in certain areas of distance education, including a lack of interaction among students and instructors and associated feelings of disconnectedness from the campus community. This article explores the study results of a blended learning, distance education graduate program…

A Multi-Agent System Approach for Distance Learning Architecture

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Turgay, Safiye

2005-01-01

The goal of this study is to suggest the agent systems by intelligence and adaptability properties in distance learning environment. The suggested system has flexible, agile, intelligence and cooperation features. System components are teachers, students (learners), and resources. Inter component relations are modeled and reviewed by using the…

Person Re-Identification via Distance Metric Learning With Latent Variables.

PubMed

Sun, Chong; Wang, Dong; Lu, Huchuan

2017-01-01

In this paper, we propose an effective person re-identification method with latent variables, which represents a pedestrian as the mixture of a holistic model and a number of flexible models. Three types of latent variables are introduced to model uncertain factors in the re-identification problem, including vertical misalignments, horizontal misalignments and leg posture variations. The distance between two pedestrians can be determined by minimizing a given distance function with respect to latent variables, and then be used to conduct the re-identification task. In addition, we develop a latent metric learning method for learning the effective metric matrix, which can be solved via an iterative manner: once latent information is specified, the metric matrix can be obtained based on some typical metric learning methods; with the computed metric matrix, the latent variables can be determined by searching the state space exhaustively. Finally, extensive experiments are conducted on seven databases to evaluate the proposed method. The experimental results demonstrate that our method achieves better performance than other competing algorithms.

Evaluation of an instructional model to teach clinically relevant medicinal chemistry in a campus and a distance pathway.

PubMed

Alsharif, Naser Z; Galt, Kimberly A

2008-04-15

To evaluate an instructional model for teaching clinically relevant medicinal chemistry. An instructional model that uses Bloom's cognitive and Krathwohl's affective taxonomy, published and tested concepts in teaching medicinal chemistry, and active learning strategies, was introduced in the medicinal chemistry courses for second-professional year (P2) doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) students (campus and distance) in the 2005-2006 academic year. Student learning and the overall effectiveness of the instructional model were assessed. Student performance after introducing the instructional model was compared to that in prior years. Student performance on course examinations improved compared to previous years. Students expressed overall enthusiasm about the course and better understood the value of medicinal chemistry to clinical practice. The explicit integration of the cognitive and affective learning objectives improved student performance, student ability to apply medicinal chemistry to clinical practice, and student attitude towards the discipline. Testing this instructional model provided validation to this theoretical framework. The model is effective for both our campus and distance-students. This instructional model may also have broad-based applications to other science courses.

A 3D Geometry Model Search Engine to Support Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tam, Gary K. L.; Lau, Rynson W. H.; Zhao, Jianmin

2009-01-01

Due to the popularity of 3D graphics in animation and games, usage of 3D geometry deformable models increases dramatically. Despite their growing importance, these models are difficult and time consuming to build. A distance learning system for the construction of these models could greatly facilitate students to learn and practice at different…

Manifold Preserving: An Intrinsic Approach for Semisupervised Distance Metric Learning.

PubMed

Ying, Shihui; Wen, Zhijie; Shi, Jun; Peng, Yaxin; Peng, Jigen; Qiao, Hong

2017-05-18

In this paper, we address the semisupervised distance metric learning problem and its applications in classification and image retrieval. First, we formulate a semisupervised distance metric learning model by considering the metric information of inner classes and interclasses. In this model, an adaptive parameter is designed to balance the inner metrics and intermetrics by using data structure. Second, we convert the model to a minimization problem whose variable is symmetric positive-definite matrix. Third, in implementation, we deduce an intrinsic steepest descent method, which assures that the metric matrix is strictly symmetric positive-definite at each iteration, with the manifold structure of the symmetric positive-definite matrix manifold. Finally, we test the proposed algorithm on conventional data sets, and compare it with other four representative methods. The numerical results validate that the proposed method significantly improves the classification with the same computational efficiency.

An Analysis of Challenges Faced by Students Learning in Virtual and Open Distance Learning System: A Case of Bindura University of Science Education (BUSE)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dodo, Obediah; Makwerere, David; Parwada, Matavire; Parwada, Cosmas

2013-01-01

After realizing that the traditional modes of tuition in Zimbabwe's andragogy had either gone obsolete or over-crowded, BUSE ventured into a "virtualised" model of open and distance learning as a way of out-doing other competing universities. However, as the programme was rolled out, there came a myriad of challenges affecting the…

Learning Compositional Shape Models of Multiple Distance Metrics by Information Projection.

PubMed

Luo, Ping; Lin, Liang; Liu, Xiaobai

2016-07-01

This paper presents a novel compositional contour-based shape model by incorporating multiple distance metrics to account for varying shape distortions or deformations. Our approach contains two key steps: 1) contour feature generation and 2) generative model pursuit. For each category, we first densely sample an ensemble of local prototype contour segments from a few positive shape examples and describe each segment using three different types of distance metrics. These metrics are diverse and complementary with each other to capture various shape deformations. We regard the parameterized contour segment plus an additive residual ϵ as a basic subspace, namely, ϵ -ball, in the sense that it represents local shape variance under the certain distance metric. Using these ϵ -balls as features, we then propose a generative learning algorithm to pursue the compositional shape model, which greedily selects the most representative features under the information projection principle. In experiments, we evaluate our model on several public challenging data sets, and demonstrate that the integration of multiple shape distance metrics is capable of dealing various shape deformations, articulations, and background clutter, hence boosting system performance.

Distance Learning: A Strategy for Improving Incontinence Care in Nursing Homes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rahman, Anna N.; Schnelle, John F.; Yamashita, Takashi; Patry, Gail; Prasauskas, Ruta

2010-01-01

Purpose: This article describes a distance learning model designed to help nursing homes implement incontinence management best practices. A basic premise is that translating research into practice requires both a feasible intervention and a dissemination strategy responsive to the target audience's needs. Design and Methods: Over 8 months, nurse…

Do E-Learning Tools Make a Difference? Results from a Case Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Desplaces, David; Blair, Carrie A.; Salvaggio, Trent

2015-01-01

Even as academics continue to debate whether distance education techniques are successful, the market demands increased distance education programs and a growing number of corporations are using e-learning to train their employees. We propose and examine a model comparing outcomes in 3 different pedagogical classroom settings: traditional,…

Integrated Teacher Education Programme for Open Distance Learning: A Model for Development and Implementation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bose, Sutapa

2013-01-01

Teacher education in India, including that offered by the open distance learning (ODL) system to thousands every year, imparts mainly pedagogic knowledge, although the need for integrated teacher education programmes has been underscored. As the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), an ODL institution, will develop an integrated Bachelor…

Does power distance exacerbate or mitigate the effects of abusive supervision? It depends on the outcome.

PubMed

Lian, Huiwen; Ferris, D Lance; Brown, Douglas J

2012-01-01

We predicted that the effects of abusive supervision are likely to be moderated by subordinate power distance orientation and that the nature of the moderating effect will depend on the outcome. Drawing upon work suggesting that high power distance orientation subordinates are more tolerant of supervisory mistreatment, we posited that high power distance orientation subordinates would be less likely to view abusive supervision as interpersonally unfair. Drawing upon social learning theory suggestions that high power distance orientation subordinates are more likely to view supervisors as role models, we posited that high power distance orientation subordinates would be more likely to pattern their own interpersonally deviant behavior after that of abusive supervisors. Across 3 samples we found support for our predicted interactions, culminating in a mediated moderation model demonstrating that social learning mediates the interaction of abusive supervision and power distance on subordinate interpersonal deviance, while ruling out alternate self-regulation impairment or displaced aggression explanations. Implications for the abusive supervision literature are discussed.

Cognitive Styles and Distance Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liu, Yuliang; Ginther, Dean

1999-01-01

Considers how to adapt the design of distance education to students' cognitive styles. Discusses cognitive styles, including field dependence versus independence, holistic-analytic, sensory preference, hemispheric preferences, and Kolb's Learning Style Model; and the characteristics of distance education, including technology. (Contains 92…

Learning a Mahalanobis Distance-Based Dynamic Time Warping Measure for Multivariate Time Series Classification.

PubMed

Mei, Jiangyuan; Liu, Meizhu; Wang, Yuan-Fang; Gao, Huijun

2016-06-01

Multivariate time series (MTS) datasets broadly exist in numerous fields, including health care, multimedia, finance, and biometrics. How to classify MTS accurately has become a hot research topic since it is an important element in many computer vision and pattern recognition applications. In this paper, we propose a Mahalanobis distance-based dynamic time warping (DTW) measure for MTS classification. The Mahalanobis distance builds an accurate relationship between each variable and its corresponding category. It is utilized to calculate the local distance between vectors in MTS. Then we use DTW to align those MTS which are out of synchronization or with different lengths. After that, how to learn an accurate Mahalanobis distance function becomes another key problem. This paper establishes a LogDet divergence-based metric learning with triplet constraint model which can learn Mahalanobis matrix with high precision and robustness. Furthermore, the proposed method is applied on nine MTS datasets selected from the University of California, Irvine machine learning repository and Robert T. Olszewski's homepage, and the results demonstrate the improved performance of the proposed approach.

Construction and validation of a distance learning module on premedication antisepsis for nursing professionals.

PubMed

Pereira, Barbara Juliana da Costa; Mendes, Isabel Amélia Costa; Beatriz Maria, Jorge; Mazzo, Alessandra

2013-11-01

The aim of this descriptive study, carried out at a public university, was to design, develop, and validate a distance learning module on intramuscular premedication antisepsis. The content was introduced in the Modular Object-Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment, based on the Systematic Model for Web-Based Training projects. Ten nurses and information technologists at work consented to participate, in compliance with ethical guidelines, and answered a questionnaire to validate the Virtual Learning Environment. The educational aspects of the environment interface were mostly evaluated as "excellent," whereas the assessment of didactic resources indicated interactivity difficulties. It is concluded that distance learning is an important tool for the teaching of premedication antisepsis. To ensure its effectiveness, appropriate methods and interactive devices must be used.

Binary Multidimensional Scaling for Hashing.

PubMed

Huang, Yameng; Lin, Zhouchen

2017-10-04

Hashing is a useful technique for fast nearest neighbor search due to its low storage cost and fast query speed. Unsupervised hashing aims at learning binary hash codes for the original features so that the pairwise distances can be best preserved. While several works have targeted on this task, the results are not satisfactory mainly due to the oversimplified model. In this paper, we propose a unified and concise unsupervised hashing framework, called Binary Multidimensional Scaling (BMDS), which is able to learn the hash code for distance preservation in both batch and online mode. In the batch mode, unlike most existing hashing methods, we do not need to simplify the model by predefining the form of hash map. Instead, we learn the binary codes directly based on the pairwise distances among the normalized original features by Alternating Minimization. This enables a stronger expressive power of the hash map. In the online mode, we consider the holistic distance relationship between current query example and those we have already learned, rather than only focusing on current data chunk. It is useful when the data come in a streaming fashion. Empirical results show that while being efficient for training, our algorithm outperforms state-of-the-art methods by a large margin in terms of distance preservation, which is practical for real-world applications.

Problems of Implementing SCORM in an Enterprise Distance Learning Architecture: SCORM Incompatibility across Multiple Web Domains.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Engelbrecht, Jeffrey C.

2003-01-01

Delivering content to distant users located in dispersed networks, separated by firewalls and different web domains requires extensive customization and integration. This article outlines some of the problems of implementing the Sharable Content Object Reference Model (SCORM) in the Marine Corps' Distance Learning System (MarineNet) and extends…

A Telepresence Learning Environment for Opera Singing: Distance Lessons Implementations over Internet2

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Alpiste Penalba, Francisco; Rojas-Rajs, Teresa; Lorente, Pedro; Iglesias, Francisco; Fernández, Joaquín; Monguet, Josep

2013-01-01

The Opera eLearning project developed a solution for opera singing distance lessons at the graduate level, using high bandwidth to deliver a quality audio and video experience that has been evaluated by singing teachers, chorus and orchestra directors, singers and other professional musicians. Prior to finding a technological model that suits the…

The Role of Voluntariness in Distance Education Students' Usage of a Course Website

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ramayah, T.

2010-01-01

This study looks at the usage of a course website among distance learning business management students in a public institution of higher learning in Malaysia. The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) was used as the basis of the research framework but voluntariness was added as a possible moderating factor. TAM postulates that perceived usefulness…

Students' Behaviour in Decision Making Process to Attend Distance Learning Programs at Universitas Terbuka, Indonesia

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Maria, Maya; Zuhairi, Aminudin; Riana, Kurnia Endah; Ginting, Ginta

2011-01-01

The purpose of the research was to analyse students' behaviour in choosing a distance learning program at Universitas Terbuka (UT), Indonesia, using the theory of planned behaviour model developed by Fishbein and Ajzen (1975). The respondents of the research were 102 students from 3 Regional Offices of Jakarta, Malang and Kupang, representing…

Impact of distance-based metric learning on classification and visualization model performance and structure-activity landscapes.

PubMed

Kireeva, Natalia V; Ovchinnikova, Svetlana I; Kuznetsov, Sergey L; Kazennov, Andrey M; Tsivadze, Aslan Yu

2014-02-01

This study concerns large margin nearest neighbors classifier and its multi-metric extension as the efficient approaches for metric learning which aimed to learn an appropriate distance/similarity function for considered case studies. In recent years, many studies in data mining and pattern recognition have demonstrated that a learned metric can significantly improve the performance in classification, clustering and retrieval tasks. The paper describes application of the metric learning approach to in silico assessment of chemical liabilities. Chemical liabilities, such as adverse effects and toxicity, play a significant role in drug discovery process, in silico assessment of chemical liabilities is an important step aimed to reduce costs and animal testing by complementing or replacing in vitro and in vivo experiments. Here, to our knowledge for the first time, a distance-based metric learning procedures have been applied for in silico assessment of chemical liabilities, the impact of metric learning on structure-activity landscapes and predictive performance of developed models has been analyzed, the learned metric was used in support vector machines. The metric learning results have been illustrated using linear and non-linear data visualization techniques in order to indicate how the change of metrics affected nearest neighbors relations and descriptor space.

Impact of distance-based metric learning on classification and visualization model performance and structure-activity landscapes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kireeva, Natalia V.; Ovchinnikova, Svetlana I.; Kuznetsov, Sergey L.; Kazennov, Andrey M.; Tsivadze, Aslan Yu.

2014-02-01

This study concerns large margin nearest neighbors classifier and its multi-metric extension as the efficient approaches for metric learning which aimed to learn an appropriate distance/similarity function for considered case studies. In recent years, many studies in data mining and pattern recognition have demonstrated that a learned metric can significantly improve the performance in classification, clustering and retrieval tasks. The paper describes application of the metric learning approach to in silico assessment of chemical liabilities. Chemical liabilities, such as adverse effects and toxicity, play a significant role in drug discovery process, in silico assessment of chemical liabilities is an important step aimed to reduce costs and animal testing by complementing or replacing in vitro and in vivo experiments. Here, to our knowledge for the first time, a distance-based metric learning procedures have been applied for in silico assessment of chemical liabilities, the impact of metric learning on structure-activity landscapes and predictive performance of developed models has been analyzed, the learned metric was used in support vector machines. The metric learning results have been illustrated using linear and non-linear data visualization techniques in order to indicate how the change of metrics affected nearest neighbors relations and descriptor space.

Learning in the model space for cognitive fault diagnosis.

PubMed

Chen, Huanhuan; Tino, Peter; Rodan, Ali; Yao, Xin

2014-01-01

The emergence of large sensor networks has facilitated the collection of large amounts of real-time data to monitor and control complex engineering systems. However, in many cases the collected data may be incomplete or inconsistent, while the underlying environment may be time-varying or unformulated. In this paper, we develop an innovative cognitive fault diagnosis framework that tackles the above challenges. This framework investigates fault diagnosis in the model space instead of the signal space. Learning in the model space is implemented by fitting a series of models using a series of signal segments selected with a sliding window. By investigating the learning techniques in the fitted model space, faulty models can be discriminated from healthy models using a one-class learning algorithm. The framework enables us to construct a fault library when unknown faults occur, which can be regarded as cognitive fault isolation. This paper also theoretically investigates how to measure the pairwise distance between two models in the model space and incorporates the model distance into the learning algorithm in the model space. The results on three benchmark applications and one simulated model for the Barcelona water distribution network confirm the effectiveness of the proposed framework.

Distance Learners' Perspective on User-Friendly Instructional Materials at the University of Zambia

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Simui, F.; Thompson, L. C.; Mundende, K.; Mwewa, G.; Kakana, F.; Chishiba, A.; Namangala, B.

2017-01-01

This case study focuses on print-based instructional materials available to distance education learners at the University of Zambia. Using the Visual Paradigm Software, we model distance education learners' voices into sociograms to make a contribution to the ongoing discourse on quality distance learning in poorly resourced communities. Emerging…

Multimedia And Internetworking Architecture Infrastructure On Interactive E-Learning System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Indah, K. A. T.; Sukarata, G.

2018-01-01

Interactive e-learning is a distance learning method that involves information technology, electronic system or computer as one means of learning system used for teaching and learning process that is implemented without having face to face directly between teacher and student. A strong dependence on emerging technologies greatly influences the way in which the architecture is designed to produce a powerful interactive e-learning network. In this paper analyzed an architecture model where learning can be done interactively, involving many participants (N-way synchronized distance learning) using video conferencing technology. Also used broadband internet network as well as multicast techniques as a troubleshooting method for bandwidth usage can be efficient.

Evaluation of an Instructional Model to Teach Clinically Relevant Medicinal Chemistry in a Campus and a Distance Pathway

PubMed Central

Galt, Kimberly A.

2008-01-01

Objectives To evaluate an instructional model for teaching clinically relevant medicinal chemistry. Methods An instructional model that uses Bloom's cognitive and Krathwohl's affective taxonomy, published and tested concepts in teaching medicinal chemistry, and active learning strategies, was introduced in the medicinal chemistry courses for second-professional year (P2) doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) students (campus and distance) in the 2005-2006 academic year. Student learning and the overall effectiveness of the instructional model were assessed. Student performance after introducing the instructional model was compared to that in prior years. Results Student performance on course examinations improved compared to previous years. Students expressed overall enthusiasm about the course and better understood the value of medicinal chemistry to clinical practice. Conclusion The explicit integration of the cognitive and affective learning objectives improved student performance, student ability to apply medicinal chemistry to clinical practice, and student attitude towards the discipline. Testing this instructional model provided validation to this theoretical framework. The model is effective for both our campus and distance-students. This instructional model may also have broad-based applications to other science courses. PMID:18483599

Analysis of Learning Achievement and Teacher-Student Interactions in Flipped and Conventional Classrooms

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sun, Jerry Chih-Yuan; Wu, Yu-Ting

2016-01-01

This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of two different teaching methods on learning effectiveness. OpenCourseWare was integrated into the flipped classroom model (experimental group) and distance learning (control group). Learning effectiveness encompassed learning achievement, teacher-student interactions, and learning satisfaction.…

Quality Assurance in Distance and Open Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mahafzah, Mohammed Hasan

2012-01-01

E-learning has become an increasingly important teaching and learning mode in educational institutions and corporate training. The evaluation of E-learning, however, is essential for the quality assurance of E-learning courses. This paper constructs a three-phase evaluation model for E-learning courses, which includes development, process, and…

Distance Education and Organizational Environment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

East, Jean F.; LaMendola, Walter; Alter, Catherine

2014-01-01

As distance education models in social work education continue to grow, this study addresses prevalence and type of models in graduate social work programs and the perceptions of deans about the future of e-learning models of curriculum delivery. The study was an exploratory sequential mixed-methods design including a national survey of 121…

Distance Metric Learning via Iterated Support Vector Machines.

PubMed

Zuo, Wangmeng; Wang, Faqiang; Zhang, David; Lin, Liang; Huang, Yuchi; Meng, Deyu; Zhang, Lei

2017-07-11

Distance metric learning aims to learn from the given training data a valid distance metric, with which the similarity between data samples can be more effectively evaluated for classification. Metric learning is often formulated as a convex or nonconvex optimization problem, while most existing methods are based on customized optimizers and become inefficient for large scale problems. In this paper, we formulate metric learning as a kernel classification problem with the positive semi-definite constraint, and solve it by iterated training of support vector machines (SVMs). The new formulation is easy to implement and efficient in training with the off-the-shelf SVM solvers. Two novel metric learning models, namely Positive-semidefinite Constrained Metric Learning (PCML) and Nonnegative-coefficient Constrained Metric Learning (NCML), are developed. Both PCML and NCML can guarantee the global optimality of their solutions. Experiments are conducted on general classification, face verification and person re-identification to evaluate our methods. Compared with the state-of-the-art approaches, our methods can achieve comparable classification accuracy and are efficient in training.

Empowering Adaptive Lectures through Activation of Intelligent and Web 2.0 Technologies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

El-Ghareeb, Haitham; Riad, A.

2011-01-01

Different Learning Paradigms can be presented by different educators as a result of utilizing several types of Information and Communication Technologies in the Learning Process. The three abstract Learning Delivery Models are: "Traditional", "Distance", and "Hybrid Learning". Hybrid Learning attempts to maintain the…

Andragogical Model in Language Training of Mining Specialists

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bondareva, Evgeniya; Chistyakova, Galina; Kleshevskyi, Yury; Sergeev, Sergey; Stepanov, Aleksey

2017-11-01

Nowadays foreign language competence is one of the main professional skills of mining engineers. Modern competitive conditions require the ability for meeting production challenges in a foreign language from specialists and managers of mining enterprises. This is the reason of high demand on foreign language training/retraining courses. Language training of adult learners fundamentally differs from children and adolescent education. The article describes the features of andragogical learning model. The authors conclude that distance learning is the most productive education form having a number of obvious advantages over traditional (in-class) one. Interactive learning method that involves active engagement of adult trainees appears to be of the greatest interest due to introduction of modern information and communication technologies for distance learning.

Using Design & Animation Concepts to Produce Animated Instructional Resources That Can Facilitate Open Distance Learning in Science and Technology Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kwasu, Isaac Ali; Yalams, Simon Madugu; Ema, Ema

2016-01-01

This paper presents an outline on how teachers can use "The Design Process and Animation Techniques to produce animated instructional resources (AIR) which, can be used to facilitate Open Distance Learning in especially Science and Technology Education. A model of the Animated Instructional Resource was developed for the teaching of Human…

Person re-identification over camera networks using multi-task distance metric learning.

PubMed

Ma, Lianyang; Yang, Xiaokang; Tao, Dacheng

2014-08-01

Person reidentification in a camera network is a valuable yet challenging problem to solve. Existing methods learn a common Mahalanobis distance metric by using the data collected from different cameras and then exploit the learned metric for identifying people in the images. However, the cameras in a camera network have different settings and the recorded images are seriously affected by variability in illumination conditions, camera viewing angles, and background clutter. Using a common metric to conduct person reidentification tasks on different camera pairs overlooks the differences in camera settings; however, it is very time-consuming to label people manually in images from surveillance videos. For example, in most existing person reidentification data sets, only one image of a person is collected from each of only two cameras; therefore, directly learning a unique Mahalanobis distance metric for each camera pair is susceptible to over-fitting by using insufficiently labeled data. In this paper, we reformulate person reidentification in a camera network as a multitask distance metric learning problem. The proposed method designs multiple Mahalanobis distance metrics to cope with the complicated conditions that exist in typical camera networks. We address the fact that these Mahalanobis distance metrics are different but related, and learned by adding joint regularization to alleviate over-fitting. Furthermore, by extending, we present a novel multitask maximally collapsing metric learning (MtMCML) model for person reidentification in a camera network. Experimental results demonstrate that formulating person reidentification over camera networks as multitask distance metric learning problem can improve performance, and our proposed MtMCML works substantially better than other current state-of-the-art person reidentification methods.

Relationship between Social Media and Academic Performance in Distance Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gupta, C. A. Pallavi; Singh, Bharti; Marwaha, Tushar

2013-01-01

The scope and method of imparting distance education to the learner has evolved over a period of time. Various models of distance education have been introduced over the years; the latest introduction is the use of Web 2.0 technologies to make distance learning more analytical, flexible, interactive, and collaborative for both the teacher and the…

K-Nearest Neighbors Relevance Annotation Model for Distance Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ke, Xiao; Li, Shaozi; Cao, Donglin

2011-01-01

With the rapid development of Internet technologies, distance education has become a popular educational mode. In this paper, the authors propose an online image automatic annotation distance education system, which could effectively help children learn interrelations between image content and corresponding keywords. Image automatic annotation is…

Conceptualizing the Essence of Presence in E-Learning through Digital Dasein

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Haj-Bolouri, Amir; Flensburg, Per

2017-01-01

Previous research on e-learning elucidates the notion of presence and learning. Scholars have conceptualized different concepts and theories based on the idea of distance education and learning. However, the "experience" of learning has been overshadowed with emphasizes on pedagogical models for social presence, theories on how to…

Multi-Innovation Gradient Iterative Locally Weighted Learning Identification for A Nonlinear Ship Maneuvering System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bai, Wei-wei; Ren, Jun-sheng; Li, Tie-shan

2018-06-01

This paper explores a highly accurate identification modeling approach for the ship maneuvering motion with fullscale trial. A multi-innovation gradient iterative (MIGI) approach is proposed to optimize the distance metric of locally weighted learning (LWL), and a novel non-parametric modeling technique is developed for a nonlinear ship maneuvering system. This proposed method's advantages are as follows: first, it can avoid the unmodeled dynamics and multicollinearity inherent to the conventional parametric model; second, it eliminates the over-learning or underlearning and obtains the optimal distance metric; and third, the MIGI is not sensitive to the initial parameter value and requires less time during the training phase. These advantages result in a highly accurate mathematical modeling technique that can be conveniently implemented in applications. To verify the characteristics of this mathematical model, two examples are used as the model platforms to study the ship maneuvering.

Distance learning in academic health education.

PubMed

Mattheos, N; Schittek, M; Attström, R; Lyon, H C

2001-05-01

Distance learning is an apparent alternative to traditional methods in education of health care professionals. Non-interactive distance learning, interactive courses and virtual learning environments exist as three different generations in distance learning, each with unique methodologies, strengths and potential. Different methodologies have been recommended for distance learning, varying from a didactic approach to a problem-based learning procedure. Accreditation, teamwork and personal contact between the tutors and the students during a course provided by distance learning are recommended as motivating factors in order to enhance the effectiveness of the learning. Numerous assessment methods for distance learning courses have been proposed. However, few studies report adequate tests for the effectiveness of the distance-learning environment. Available information indicates that distance learning may significantly decrease the cost of academic health education at all levels. Furthermore, such courses can provide education to students and professionals not accessible by traditional methods. Distance learning applications still lack the support of a solid theoretical framework and are only evaluated to a limited extent. Cases reported so far tend to present enthusiastic results, while more carefully-controlled studies suggest a cautious attitude towards distance learning. There is a vital need for research evidence to identify the factors of importance and variables involved in distance learning. The effectiveness of distance learning courses, especially in relation to traditional teaching methods, must therefore be further investigated.

Star Schools Projects: Distance Learning Model Practices.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lane, Carla; Cassidy, Sheila

This document describes model practices of the Star Schools Program, whose purpose is to provide quality, cost-effective instruction and training through distance education technologies. Benefits which have resulted from the Star Schools Projects for local staff, teachers, and parents are identified. The TEAMS Project focuses on a Three-Tier…

Social learning across psychological distance.

PubMed

Kalkstein, David A; Kleiman, Tali; Wakslak, Cheryl J; Liberman, Nira; Trope, Yaacov

2016-01-01

While those we learn from are often close to us, more and more our learning environments are shifting to include more distant and dissimilar others. The question we examine in 5 studies is how whom we learn from influences what we learn and how what we learn influences from whom we choose to learn it. In Study 1, we show that social learning, in and of itself, promotes higher level (more abstract) learning than does learning based on one's own direct experience. In Studies 2 and 3, we show that when people learn from and emulate others, they tend to do so at a higher level when learning from a distant model than from a near model. Studies 4 and 5 show that thinking about learning at a higher (compared to a lower) level leads individuals to expand the range of others that they will consider learning from. Study 6 shows that when given an actual choice, people prefer to learn low-level information from near sources and high-level information from distant sources. These results demonstrate a basic link between level of learning and psychological distance in social learning processes. (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved).

Role of Open and Distance Education in Integrating Education with Development--Emerging Model of Networked Collaborative Learning and Net-working.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Takwale, Ram

1998-01-01

Discusses the evolution of the educational system in India, developments in new communication technologies, and plans by the open and distance education system to develop educational networks. Policies and programs adopted by the Distance Education Council are outlined. (AEF)

A Model for an Open and Flexible E-Training Platform To Encourage Companies' Learning Culture and Meet Employees' Learning Needs.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bagnasco, Andrea; Chirico, Marco; Parodi, Giancarlo; Scapolla, A. Marina

2003-01-01

Distance education is an answer to the demand for flexibility in training. The aim is to build a virtual learning community on the basis of a knowledge model that meets different learning needs. This article analyzes possible innovations in corporate training, and proposes a framework that integrates all information sources and offers practice…

Increasing health worker capacity through distance learning: a comprehensive review of programmes in Tanzania.

PubMed

Nartker, Anya J; Stevens, Liz; Shumays, Alyson; Kalowela, Martin; Kisimbo, Daniel; Potter, Katy

2010-12-31

Tanzania, like many developing countries, faces a crisis in human resources for health. The government has looked for ways to increase the number and skills of health workers, including using distance learning in their training. In 2008, the authors reviewed and assessed the country's current distance learning programmes for health care workers, as well as those in countries with similar human resource challenges, to determine the feasibility of distance learning to meet the need of an increased and more skilled health workforce. Data were collected from 25 distance learning programmes at health training institutions, universities, and non-governmental organizations throughout the country from May to August 2008. Methods included internet research; desk review; telephone, email and mail-in surveys; on-site observations; interviews with programme managers, instructors, students, information technology specialists, preceptors, health care workers and Ministry of Health and Social Welfare representatives; and a focus group with national HIV/AIDS care and treatment organizations. Challenges include lack of guidelines for administrators, instructors and preceptors of distance learning programmes regarding roles and responsibilities; absence of competencies for clinical components of curricula; and technological constraints such as lack of access to computers and to the internet. Insufficient funding resulted in personnel shortages, lack of appropriate training for personnel, and lack of materials for students.Nonetheless, current and prospective students expressed overwhelming enthusiasm for scale-up of distance learning because of the unique financial and social benefits offered by these programs. Participants were retained as employees in their health care facilities, and remained in their communities and supported their families while advancing their careers. Space in health training institutions was freed up for new students entering in-residence pre-service training. A blended print-based distance learning model is most feasible at the national level due to current resource and infrastructure constraints. With an increase in staffing; improvement of infrastructure, coordination and curricula; and decentralization to the zonal or district level, distance learning can be an effective method to increase both the skills and the numbers of qualified health care workers capable of meeting the health care needs of the Tanzanian population.

Increasing health worker capacity through distance learning: a comprehensive review of programmes in Tanzania

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Tanzania, like many developing countries, faces a crisis in human resources for health. The government has looked for ways to increase the number and skills of health workers, including using distance learning in their training. In 2008, the authors reviewed and assessed the country's current distance learning programmes for health care workers, as well as those in countries with similar human resource challenges, to determine the feasibility of distance learning to meet the need of an increased and more skilled health workforce. Methods Data were collected from 25 distance learning programmes at health training institutions, universities, and non-governmental organizations throughout the country from May to August 2008. Methods included internet research; desk review; telephone, email and mail-in surveys; on-site observations; interviews with programme managers, instructors, students, information technology specialists, preceptors, health care workers and Ministry of Health and Social Welfare representatives; and a focus group with national HIV/AIDS care and treatment organizations. Results Challenges include lack of guidelines for administrators, instructors and preceptors of distance learning programmes regarding roles and responsibilities; absence of competencies for clinical components of curricula; and technological constraints such as lack of access to computers and to the internet. Insufficient funding resulted in personnel shortages, lack of appropriate training for personnel, and lack of materials for students. Nonetheless, current and prospective students expressed overwhelming enthusiasm for scale-up of distance learning because of the unique financial and social benefits offered by these programs. Participants were retained as employees in their health care facilities, and remained in their communities and supported their families while advancing their careers. Space in health training institutions was freed up for new students entering in-residence pre-service training. Conclusions A blended print-based distance learning model is most feasible at the national level due to current resource and infrastructure constraints. With an increase in staffing; improvement of infrastructure, coordination and curricula; and decentralization to the zonal or district level, distance learning can be an effective method to increase both the skills and the numbers of qualified health care workers capable of meeting the health care needs of the Tanzanian population. PMID:21194417

Partially supervised speaker clustering.

PubMed

Tang, Hao; Chu, Stephen Mingyu; Hasegawa-Johnson, Mark; Huang, Thomas S

2012-05-01

Content-based multimedia indexing, retrieval, and processing as well as multimedia databases demand the structuring of the media content (image, audio, video, text, etc.), one significant goal being to associate the identity of the content to the individual segments of the signals. In this paper, we specifically address the problem of speaker clustering, the task of assigning every speech utterance in an audio stream to its speaker. We offer a complete treatment to the idea of partially supervised speaker clustering, which refers to the use of our prior knowledge of speakers in general to assist the unsupervised speaker clustering process. By means of an independent training data set, we encode the prior knowledge at the various stages of the speaker clustering pipeline via 1) learning a speaker-discriminative acoustic feature transformation, 2) learning a universal speaker prior model, and 3) learning a discriminative speaker subspace, or equivalently, a speaker-discriminative distance metric. We study the directional scattering property of the Gaussian mixture model (GMM) mean supervector representation of utterances in the high-dimensional space, and advocate exploiting this property by using the cosine distance metric instead of the euclidean distance metric for speaker clustering in the GMM mean supervector space. We propose to perform discriminant analysis based on the cosine distance metric, which leads to a novel distance metric learning algorithm—linear spherical discriminant analysis (LSDA). We show that the proposed LSDA formulation can be systematically solved within the elegant graph embedding general dimensionality reduction framework. Our speaker clustering experiments on the GALE database clearly indicate that 1) our speaker clustering methods based on the GMM mean supervector representation and vector-based distance metrics outperform traditional speaker clustering methods based on the “bag of acoustic features” representation and statistical model-based distance metrics, 2) our advocated use of the cosine distance metric yields consistent increases in the speaker clustering performance as compared to the commonly used euclidean distance metric, 3) our partially supervised speaker clustering concept and strategies significantly improve the speaker clustering performance over the baselines, and 4) our proposed LSDA algorithm further leads to state-of-the-art speaker clustering performance.

The Influence of Personality and Chronotype on Distance Learning Willingness and Anxiety among Vocational High School Students in Turkey

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Randler, Christoph; Horzum, Mehmet Baris; Vollmer, Christian

2014-01-01

There are many studies related to distance learning. Willingness and anxiety are important variables for distance learning. Recent research has shown that anxiety and willingness towards distance learning are moderated by personality. This study sought to investigate whether distance learning willingness and distance learning anxiety are…

Student Satisfaction: A Distance Learning Model for Training Teachers of Students with Visual Impairments in New York State. Research Report

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Trief, Ellen; Decker, Lisa M.; Ryan, Daniel J.

2004-01-01

Since 1920, the Hadley School for the Blind in Winnetka, Illinois, has provided distance learning (via correspondence courses) to individuals who are visually impaired (that is, are blind or have low vision) and their families to support the acquisition of specialized skills and to attain the knowledge needed for full participation in life…

Artistic misunderstandings: The emotional significance of historical learning in the arts.

PubMed

Bullot, Nicolas J; Reber, Rolf

2017-01-01

The Distancing-Embracing model does not have the conceptual resources to explain artistic misunderstandings and the emotional consequences of historical learning in the arts. Specifically, it suggests implausible predictions about emotional distancing caused by art schemata (e.g., misunderstandings of artistic intentions and contexts). These problems show the need for further inquiries into how historical contextualization modulates negative emotions in the arts.

Distance Training in the European Union. ZIFF Papiere 96.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Keegan, Desmond

A study examined distance training in the European Union (EU) countries. First, recent literature on the following topics was reviewed: technology-supported learning, flexible and distance learning, development of open distance learning, and teleconferencing and distance learning. Next, enrollments and trends in distance learning in the EU as a…

A Model for Learning Development

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kilfoil, W. R.

2008-01-01

This article looks at the way in which people perceive learning and the impact of these perceptions on teaching methods within the context of learning development in distance education. The context could, in fact, be any type of teaching and learning environment. The point is to balance approaches to teaching and learning depending on student…

Learning Experiences Reuse Based on an Ontology Modeling to Improve Adaptation in E-Learning Systems

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hadj M'tir, Riadh; Rumpler, Béatrice; Jeribi, Lobna; Ben Ghezala, Henda

2014-01-01

Current trends in e-Learning focus mainly on personalizing and adapting the learning environment and learning process. Although their increasingly number, theses researches often ignore the concepts of capitalization and reuse of learner experiences which can be exploited later by other learners. Thus, the major challenge of distance learning is…

Oscillatory neural network for pattern recognition: trajectory based classification and supervised learning.

PubMed

Miller, Vonda H; Jansen, Ben H

2008-12-01

Computer algorithms that match human performance in recognizing written text or spoken conversation remain elusive. The reasons why the human brain far exceeds any existing recognition scheme to date in the ability to generalize and to extract invariant characteristics relevant to category matching are not clear. However, it has been postulated that the dynamic distribution of brain activity (spatiotemporal activation patterns) is the mechanism by which stimuli are encoded and matched to categories. This research focuses on supervised learning using a trajectory based distance metric for category discrimination in an oscillatory neural network model. Classification is accomplished using a trajectory based distance metric. Since the distance metric is differentiable, a supervised learning algorithm based on gradient descent is demonstrated. Classification of spatiotemporal frequency transitions and their relation to a priori assessed categories is shown along with the improved classification results after supervised training. The results indicate that this spatiotemporal representation of stimuli and the associated distance metric is useful for simple pattern recognition tasks and that supervised learning improves classification results.

How does tele-learning compare with other forms of education delivery? A systematic review of tele-learning educational outcomes for health professionals.

PubMed

Tomlinson, Jo; Shaw, Tim; Munro, Ana; Johnson, Ros; Madden, D Lynne; Phillips, Rosemary; McGregor, Deborah

2013-11-01

Telecommuniciation technologies, including audio and videoconferencing facilities, afford geographically dispersed health professionals the opportunity to connect and collaborate with others. Recognised for enabling tele-consultations and tele-collaborations between teams of health care professionals and their patients, these technologies are also well suited to the delivery of distance learning programs, known as tele-learning. To determine whether tele-learning delivery methods achieve equivalent learning outcomes when compared with traditional face-to-face education delivery methods. A systematic literature review was commissioned by the NSW Ministry of Health to identify results relevant to programs applying tele-learning delivery methods in the provision of education to health professionals. The review found few studies that rigorously compared tele-learning with traditional formats. There was some evidence, however, to support the premise that tele-learning models achieve comparable learning outcomes and that participants are generally satisfied with and accepting of this delivery method. The review illustrated that tele-learning technologies not only enable distance learning opportunities, but achieve comparable learning outcomes to traditional face-to-face models. More rigorous evidence is required to strengthen these findings and should be the focus of future tele-learning research.

Caka E-Learning Model

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gorsev, Gonca; Turkmen, Ugur; Askin, Cihat

2017-01-01

In today's world, in order to obtain the information in education, various approaches, methods and devices have been developed. Like many developing countries, e-learning and distance learning (internet based learning) are used today in many areas of education in Turkey. This research aims to contribute to education systems and develop a…

The Predictive Relationship among the Community of Inquiry Framework, Perceived Learning and Online, and Graduate Students' Course Grades in Online Synchronous and Asynchronous Courses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rockinson-Szapkiw, Amanda J.; Wendt, Jillian; Wighting, Mervyn; Nisbet, Deanna

2016-01-01

The Community of Inquiry framework has been widely supported by research to provide a model of online learning that informs the design and implementation of distance learning courses. However, the relationship between elements of the CoI framework and perceived learning warrants further examination as a predictive model for online graduate student…

Quasi-Facial Communication for Online Learning Using 3D Modeling Techniques

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wang, Yushun; Zhuang, Yueting

2008-01-01

Online interaction with 3D facial animation is an alternative way of face-to-face communication for distance education. 3D facial modeling is essential for virtual educational environments establishment. This article presents a novel 3D facial modeling solution that facilitates quasi-facial communication for online learning. Our algorithm builds…

Discontinuous categories affect information-integration but not rule-based category learning.

PubMed

Maddox, W Todd; Filoteo, J Vincent; Lauritzen, J Scott; Connally, Emily; Hejl, Kelli D

2005-07-01

Three experiments were conducted that provide a direct examination of within-category discontinuity manipulations on the implicit, procedural-based learning and the explicit, hypothesis-testing systems proposed in F. G. Ashby, L. A. Alfonso-Reese, A. U. Turken, and E. M. Waldron's (1998) competition between verbal and implicit systems model. Discontinuous categories adversely affected information-integration but not rule-based category learning. Increasing the magnitude of the discontinuity did not lead to a significant decline in performance. The distance to the bound provides a reasonable description of the generalization profile associated with the hypothesis-testing system, whereas the distance to the bound plus the distance to the trained response region provides a reasonable description of the generalization profile associated with the procedural-based learning system. These results suggest that within-category discontinuity differentially impacts information-integration but not rule-based category learning and provides information regarding the detailed processing characteristics of each category learning system. ((c) 2005 APA, all rights reserved).

Normalized distance aggregation of discriminative features for person reidentification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hou, Li; Han, Kang; Wan, Wanggen; Hwang, Jenq-Neng; Yao, Haiyan

2018-03-01

We propose an effective person reidentification method based on normalized distance aggregation of discriminative features. Our framework is built on the integration of three high-performance discriminative feature extraction models, including local maximal occurrence (LOMO), feature fusion net (FFN), and a concatenation of LOMO and FFN called LOMO-FFN, through two fast and discriminant metric learning models, i.e., cross-view quadratic discriminant analysis (XQDA) and large-scale similarity learning (LSSL). More specifically, we first represent all the cross-view person images using LOMO, FFN, and LOMO-FFN, respectively, and then apply each extracted feature representation to train XQDA and LSSL, respectively, to obtain the optimized individual cross-view distance metric. Finally, the cross-view person matching is computed as the sum of the optimized individual cross-view distance metric through the min-max normalization. Experimental results have shown the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm on three challenging datasets (VIPeR, PRID450s, and CUHK01).

Performance Assessment Tools for Distance Learning and Simulation: Knowledge, Models and Tools to Improve the Effectiveness of Naval Distance Learning

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-06-01

34/> <!-- someapplet.imi -- > <property narne="appletcontent"’ value="somecontent jar"!> <!- - someapplet.lml -- > <property narne="jnlpcodebasedir" value= gizmo "!> gizmo ...property name="jnlphref"’ value="gizmo.jnlp",’> 0!- - gizmo.jnlp -- > <property narne="jnlptitle"’ value="Nifty Gizmo !/> <!-- nifty gizmo

A Study of Adult Students' Perceptions of the Traditional Distance Education Programs and the Option of a Blended Learning Model in Sub-Saharan Africa

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Panga, George C.

2010-01-01

A discernible difference, attributed to the digital divide, is evident between the adoption and implementation of distance education technologies in institutions of higher learning in low-income countries in sub-Saharan Africa and in high-income countries in America and Europe. A review of the literature revealed a rural-urban digital divide…

Implicit Learning of Recursive Context-Free Grammars

PubMed Central

Rohrmeier, Martin; Fu, Qiufang; Dienes, Zoltan

2012-01-01

Context-free grammars are fundamental for the description of linguistic syntax. However, most artificial grammar learning experiments have explored learning of simpler finite-state grammars, while studies exploring context-free grammars have not assessed awareness and implicitness. This paper explores the implicit learning of context-free grammars employing features of hierarchical organization, recursive embedding and long-distance dependencies. The grammars also featured the distinction between left- and right-branching structures, as well as between centre- and tail-embedding, both distinctions found in natural languages. People acquired unconscious knowledge of relations between grammatical classes even for dependencies over long distances, in ways that went beyond learning simpler relations (e.g. n-grams) between individual words. The structural distinctions drawn from linguistics also proved important as performance was greater for tail-embedding than centre-embedding structures. The results suggest the plausibility of implicit learning of complex context-free structures, which model some features of natural languages. They support the relevance of artificial grammar learning for probing mechanisms of language learning and challenge existing theories and computational models of implicit learning. PMID:23094021

Research on cardiovascular disease prediction based on distance metric learning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ni, Zhuang; Liu, Kui; Kang, Guixia

2018-04-01

Distance metric learning algorithm has been widely applied to medical diagnosis and exhibited its strengths in classification problems. The k-nearest neighbour (KNN) is an efficient method which treats each feature equally. The large margin nearest neighbour classification (LMNN) improves the accuracy of KNN by learning a global distance metric, which did not consider the locality of data distributions. In this paper, we propose a new distance metric algorithm adopting cosine metric and LMNN named COS-SUBLMNN which takes more care about local feature of data to overcome the shortage of LMNN and improve the classification accuracy. The proposed methodology is verified on CVDs patient vector derived from real-world medical data. The Experimental results show that our method provides higher accuracy than KNN and LMNN did, which demonstrates the effectiveness of the Risk predictive model of CVDs based on COS-SUBLMNN.

Has Distance Learning Become More Flexible? Reflections of a Distance Learning Student

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thomas, Theda

2012-01-01

This paper provides insight into the way in which distance learning had changed over the past 30 years from the perspective of the author as a distance learning student. The question is then asked as to whether current practice is reducing flexibility for distance learning students? The paper starts with a discussion of flexible learning and the…

Deep Multimodal Distance Metric Learning Using Click Constraints for Image Ranking.

PubMed

Yu, Jun; Yang, Xiaokang; Gao, Fei; Tao, Dacheng

2017-12-01

How do we retrieve images accurately? Also, how do we rank a group of images precisely and efficiently for specific queries? These problems are critical for researchers and engineers to generate a novel image searching engine. First, it is important to obtain an appropriate description that effectively represent the images. In this paper, multimodal features are considered for describing images. The images unique properties are reflected by visual features, which are correlated to each other. However, semantic gaps always exist between images visual features and semantics. Therefore, we utilize click feature to reduce the semantic gap. The second key issue is learning an appropriate distance metric to combine these multimodal features. This paper develops a novel deep multimodal distance metric learning (Deep-MDML) method. A structured ranking model is adopted to utilize both visual and click features in distance metric learning (DML). Specifically, images and their related ranking results are first collected to form the training set. Multimodal features, including click and visual features, are collected with these images. Next, a group of autoencoders is applied to obtain initially a distance metric in different visual spaces, and an MDML method is used to assign optimal weights for different modalities. Next, we conduct alternating optimization to train the ranking model, which is used for the ranking of new queries with click features. Compared with existing image ranking methods, the proposed method adopts a new ranking model to use multimodal features, including click features and visual features in DML. We operated experiments to analyze the proposed Deep-MDML in two benchmark data sets, and the results validate the effects of the method.

Handwritten document age classification based on handwriting styles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramaiah, Chetan; Kumar, Gaurav; Govindaraju, Venu

2012-01-01

Handwriting styles are constantly changing over time. We approach the novel problem of estimating the approximate age of Historical Handwritten Documents using Handwriting styles. This system will have many applications in handwritten document processing engines where specialized processing techniques can be applied based on the estimated age of the document. We propose to learn a distribution over styles across centuries using Topic Models and to apply a classifier over weights learned in order to estimate the approximate age of the documents. We present a comparison of different distance metrics such as Euclidean Distance and Hellinger Distance within this application.

Strategic Planning and Open Learning: Turkey Tails and Frogs.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pacey, Lucille

This paper discusses the principles of strategic planning and how they can be applied in open and distance learning for greater student success. The model selected for discussion is the Applied Strategic Planning Model which proposes nine important steps for strategic planning: planning to plan, values audit, mission formulation, strategic…

Open and Distance Learning: Alternative Approaches to the Delivery of Post-Secondary Education. An Identification of Trends, a Discussion of Issues, and a Review of Models. A Discussion Paper.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schweiger, Helmut

This report discusses forces that are shaping alternative approaches to the delivery of postsecondary education, particularly distance education and open learning. One of these forces is the ever-changing composition of the student body, whose demands are increasing and whose needs are becoming more disparate because of a more and more…

Evaluation strategies for midwifery education linked to digital media and distance delivery technology.

PubMed

Fullerton, Judith T; Ingle, Henry T

2003-01-01

The goal of the teaching and learning process for health professionals is the acquisition of a fundamental core of knowledge, the demonstration of critical thinking ability, and the demonstration of competency in the performance of clinical skills. Teaching and learning in distance education programs require that the administration, teachers, and students be creative in developing evaluation strategies that can be adapted to the challenges of the cyberspace on-line educational environment. Evaluation standards for distance education programs recently have been delineated by federal agencies, private organizations, and academic accreditation associations. These standards are linked to principles of sound education practice that promote program quality, high levels of student-faculty interaction, and support effective teaching and learning in the distance education context. A growing body of evidence supports the conclusion that technology-enhanced teaching is equivalent in effectiveness compared with traditional methods when student-learning outcomes are the focus of measurement. An allied body of literature offers model approaches that can be useful to educators who must also conduct the evaluation of clinical skills, provide feedback, and promote socialization to the nurse-midwifery/midwifery role for students being educated in whole or in part through instruction delivered at a distance.

Building Academic Quality in Distance Higher Education. A Monograph in Higher Education Evaluation and Policy.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chacon-Duque, Fabio J.

The factors that determine course completion and achievement in college distance education were investigated using a sample of 25 courses offered through the Independent Learning Program at the Pennsylvania State University. The main objective was to develop a multivariate model to explain and predict outcomes of distance education. Additional…

Analysis of the Demand for Distance Education at Eastern and Central European Higher Education Institutions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vasilevska, Daina; Rivza, Baiba; Pivac, Tatjana; Alekneviciene, Vilija; Parlinska, Agnieszka

2017-01-01

Distance education as one of the new and perspective forms of completing higher education increases in popularity around the world. At the same time, the development of this model of education generates new problems: organization of the study process and information security. Distance learning allows solving a problem of accessibility of higher…

Prediction of Short-Distance Aerial Movement of Phakopsora pachyrhizi Urediniospores Using Machine Learning.

PubMed

Wen, L; Bowen, C R; Hartman, G L

2017-10-01

Dispersal of urediniospores by wind is the primary means of spread for Phakopsora pachyrhizi, the cause of soybean rust. Our research focused on the short-distance movement of urediniospores from within the soybean canopy and up to 61 m from field-grown rust-infected soybean plants. Environmental variables were used to develop and compare models including the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression, zero-inflated Poisson/regular Poisson regression, random forest, and neural network to describe deposition of urediniospores collected in passive and active traps. All four models identified distance of trap from source, humidity, temperature, wind direction, and wind speed as the five most important variables influencing short-distance movement of urediniospores. The random forest model provided the best predictions, explaining 76.1 and 86.8% of the total variation in the passive- and active-trap datasets, respectively. The prediction accuracy based on the correlation coefficient (r) between predicted values and the true values were 0.83 (P < 0.0001) and 0.94 (P < 0.0001) for the passive and active trap datasets, respectively. Overall, multiple machine learning techniques identified the most important variables to make the most accurate predictions of movement of P. pachyrhizi urediniospores short-distance.

A Technology Primer for Distance Educators.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wagner, Ellen D.

An introduction to instructional technology systems used for distance learning applications is provided, with a compilation of technical information in straightforward terms. Broadcast communications theory is discussed, and several models of communications are considered, including transport mechanics and network facilities. The most prevalent…

Using Games-Based eLearning Technologies in Overcoming Difficulties in Teaching Information Systems

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Connolly, Thomas; Stanfield, Mark

2006-01-01

The contributions of this research center on two major areas: delineation of a new model of distance education in which the authors identify three generations of eLearning; and examination of how eLearning and games-based eLearning technologies can be used to enrich the Information Systems (IS) learning experiences of students with different…

Ontology-Based Multimedia Authoring Tool for Adaptive E-Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Deng, Lawrence Y.; Keh, Huan-Chao; Liu, Yi-Jen

2010-01-01

More video streaming technologies supporting distance learning systems are becoming popular among distributed network environments. In this paper, the authors develop a multimedia authoring tool for adaptive e-learning by using characterization of extended media streaming technologies. The distributed approach is based on an ontology-based model.…

Implementation and Deployment of the IMS Learning Design Specification

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Paquette, Gilbert; Marino, Olga; De la Teja, Ileana; Lundgren­-Cayrol, Karin; Lonard, Michel; Contamines, Julien

2005-01-01

Knowledge management in organizations, the learning objects paradigm, the advent of a new web generation, and the "Semantic Web" are major actual trends that reveal a potential for a renewed distance learning pedagogy. First and foremost is the use of educational modelling languages and instructional engineering methods to help decide…

Teaching and Learning with Flexible Hypermedia Learning Environments.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wedekind, Joachim; Lechner, Martin; Tergan, Sigmar-Olaf

This paper presents an approach for developing flexible Hypermedia Learning Environments (HMLE) and applies this theoretical framework to the creation of a layered model of a hypermedia system, called HyperDisc, developed at the German Institute for Research on Distance Education. The first section introduces HMLE and suggests that existing…

A Working Model for Complying with Accessibility Guidelines for Online Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cifuentes, Lauren; Janney, Alexandra; Guerra, Lauran; Weir, Jennifer

2016-01-01

We describe our activities that emerged in the context of an Office of Distance Education and Learning Technologies' efforts to systematically and systemically address accessibility for online learning in order to comply with ethical principles, best practices, and laws. The activities include three overarching continuous tasks: strategically…

Learning Human Actions by Combining Global Dynamics and Local Appearance.

PubMed

Luo, Guan; Yang, Shuang; Tian, Guodong; Yuan, Chunfeng; Hu, Weiming; Maybank, Stephen J

2014-12-01

In this paper, we address the problem of human action recognition through combining global temporal dynamics and local visual spatio-temporal appearance features. For this purpose, in the global temporal dimension, we propose to model the motion dynamics with robust linear dynamical systems (LDSs) and use the model parameters as motion descriptors. Since LDSs live in a non-Euclidean space and the descriptors are in non-vector form, we propose a shift invariant subspace angles based distance to measure the similarity between LDSs. In the local visual dimension, we construct curved spatio-temporal cuboids along the trajectories of densely sampled feature points and describe them using histograms of oriented gradients (HOG). The distance between motion sequences is computed with the Chi-Squared histogram distance in the bag-of-words framework. Finally we perform classification using the maximum margin distance learning method by combining the global dynamic distances and the local visual distances. We evaluate our approach for action recognition on five short clips data sets, namely Weizmann, KTH, UCF sports, Hollywood2 and UCF50, as well as three long continuous data sets, namely VIRAT, ADL and CRIM13. We show competitive results as compared with current state-of-the-art methods.

Going beyond Kirkpatrick's Training Evaluation Model: The Role of Workplace Factors in Distance Learning Transfer

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Aluko, F. R.; Shonubi, O. K.

2014-01-01

This article emanates from a longitudinal study of the impact of a distance education programme for teacher training on graduates' job performance, in which the authors built on the findings of a previous pilot study. After using Kirkpatrick's Training Evaluation Model in a previous study, one of the authors found there to be a strong relationship…

Inclusive Approach to the Psycho-Pedagogical Assistance of Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Akhmetova, Daniya Z.

2014-01-01

Author focuses on three groups of problems: quality of distance learning and e-learning; necessity to develop the facilitation skills for teachers who work using distance learning technologies; realization of inclusive approach for the organization of distance learning in inclusive groups where people with disabilities study with people without…

Study on the feasibility of provision of distance learning programmes in surgery to Malawi.

PubMed

Mains, Edward A A; Blackmur, James P; Dewhurst, David; Ward, Ross M; Garden, O James; Wigmore, Stephen J

2011-12-01

Medical educational opportunities and resources are considerably limited in the developing world. The expansion of computing and Internet access means that there exists a potential to provide education to students through distance learning programmes. This study investigated the feasibility of providing distance learning course in surgery in Malawi. The study investigated the user requirements, technical requirements and Internet connections in two teaching hospitals in Malawi. In addition the appropriateness of current course material from the Edinburgh Surgical Sciences Qualification to Malawi trainees was assessed. The study found a high degree of interest from Malawian trainees in distance learning. The provision of basic science modules such as anatomy and physiology and the ability to access journals were considered highly desirable. The current ESSQ course would require extensive re-modelling to make it suitable to an African trainee's requirements. Internet speeds remain slow and access is currently expensive. There is considerable interest in distance learning programmes in Malawi but access to them is limited partly because of slow and expensive Internet access. Understanding the needs of trainees in countries such as Malawi will allow better direction of educational aid and resources to support surgical training. Copyright © 2010 Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (Scottish charity number SC005317) and Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Distance learning in the public health workplace.

PubMed

Patel, M

2000-09-01

The Master of Applied Epidemiology (MAE) Program implemented in Canberra to produce public health practitioners with specified competencies in the control of communicable diseases. Twenty one of the 24 months of training is distance learning defined as, 'where the learner is physically remote from the training institution'. During this time the trainees are in supervised employment in Public Health centres across the country. Here they learn directly from first hand experiences in the work place. They return to Canberra for short, intensive periods of interactive sessions with their peers and supervisors. Lessons learnt from conducting this program are discussed in this article. They include: all trainees are not suited to this form of training; the quality of support from the field supervisors is highly variable and their role in modelling crucial to the trainees performance; demands on the academic staff is high; and the frequency of contact between trainee and academic supervisor varies considerably. To date this program has made major contributions by enhancing communicable disease surveillance and control but it demands intensive resources to sustain, quality training, and support. This model of distance learning can be adapted in the Pacific both for graduate degree courses and also for continuing education for all levels of health professionals.

Distance Learning.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Orey, Michael; Koenecke, Lynne; Snider, Richard C.; Perkins, Ross A.; Holmes, Glen A.; Lockee, Barbara B.; Moller, Leslie A.; Harvey, Douglas; Downs, Margaret; Godshalk, Veronica M.

2003-01-01

Contains four articles covering trends and issues on distance learning including: the experience of two learners learning via the Internet; a systematic approach to determining the scalability of a distance education program; identifying factors that affect learning community development and performance in asynchronous distance education; and…

46 CFR 10.412 - Distance and e-learning.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 1 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Distance and e-learning. 10.412 Section 10.412 Shipping... CREDENTIAL Training Courses and Programs § 10.412 Distance and e-learning. The Coast Guard may allow the training of mariners by means of distance learning and e-learning in accordance with the standards of...

Self-Regulated Learning Ability of Chinese Distance Learners

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zhao, Hong; Chen, Li; Panda, Santosh

2014-01-01

This study reports on self-regulated learning (SRL) of Chinese distance learners by using a structured SRL scale. SRL of adult and lifelong learners is a well-researched area, though its application within distance education is a new area of investigation. Open and distance learning lean heavily on self-learning and self-learning resources, though…

Learning characteristics of veterinary technology students in a distance-education and an on-campus program.

PubMed

Varnhagen, Connie K; Wright, David L

2008-01-01

Distance-education programs have the potential to greatly increase the number of veterinary technicians. The demographic characteristics, readiness for independent and online learning, learning styles, and academic locus of control of a group of distance-education and on-campus veterinary technology students were examined. Distance-education students preferred independent learning and were more internally motivated to learn. Distance-education students with greater degrees of independence and internal motivation participated more fully, were more satisfied with their learning, and achieved higher grades. Students who preferred problem solving and active experimentation were particularly successful in distance education. These findings could have important implications for advising students interested in distance-education programs.

Joint learning of labels and distance metric.

PubMed

Liu, Bo; Wang, Meng; Hong, Richang; Zha, Zhengjun; Hua, Xian-Sheng

2010-06-01

Machine learning algorithms frequently suffer from the insufficiency of training data and the usage of inappropriate distance metric. In this paper, we propose a joint learning of labels and distance metric (JLLDM) approach, which is able to simultaneously address the two difficulties. In comparison with the existing semi-supervised learning and distance metric learning methods that focus only on label prediction or distance metric construction, the JLLDM algorithm optimizes the labels of unlabeled samples and a Mahalanobis distance metric in a unified scheme. The advantage of JLLDM is multifold: 1) the problem of training data insufficiency can be tackled; 2) a good distance metric can be constructed with only very few training samples; and 3) no radius parameter is needed since the algorithm automatically determines the scale of the metric. Extensive experiments are conducted to compare the JLLDM approach with different semi-supervised learning and distance metric learning methods, and empirical results demonstrate its effectiveness.

Distance learning in discriminative vector quantization.

PubMed

Schneider, Petra; Biehl, Michael; Hammer, Barbara

2009-10-01

Discriminative vector quantization schemes such as learning vector quantization (LVQ) and extensions thereof offer efficient and intuitive classifiers based on the representation of classes by prototypes. The original methods, however, rely on the Euclidean distance corresponding to the assumption that the data can be represented by isotropic clusters. For this reason, extensions of the methods to more general metric structures have been proposed, such as relevance adaptation in generalized LVQ (GLVQ) and matrix learning in GLVQ. In these approaches, metric parameters are learned based on the given classification task such that a data-driven distance measure is found. In this letter, we consider full matrix adaptation in advanced LVQ schemes. In particular, we introduce matrix learning to a recent statistical formalization of LVQ, robust soft LVQ, and we compare the results on several artificial and real-life data sets to matrix learning in GLVQ, a derivation of LVQ-like learning based on a (heuristic) cost function. In all cases, matrix adaptation allows a significant improvement of the classification accuracy. Interestingly, however, the principled behavior of the models with respect to prototype locations and extracted matrix dimensions shows several characteristic differences depending on the data sets.

Observing and Understanding an On-Line Learning Activity: A Model-Based Approach for Activity Indicator Engineering

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Djouad, Tarek; Mille, Alain

2018-01-01

Although learning indicators are now properly studied and published, it is still very difficult to manage them freely within most distance learning platforms. As all activity indicators need to collect and analyze properly traces of the learning activity, we propose to use these traces as a starting point for a platform independent Trace…

Introducing the R2D2 Model: Online Learning for the Diverse Learners of This World

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bonk, Curtis J.; Zhang, Ke

2006-01-01

The R2D2 method--read, reflect, display, and do--is a new model for designing and delivering distance education, and in particular, online learning. Such a model is especially important to address the diverse preferences of online learners of varied generations and varied Internet familiarity. Four quadrants can be utilized separately or as part…

Distance and Face-to-Face Learning Culture and Values: A Conceptual Analysis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tejeda-Delgado, Carmen; Millan, Brett J.; Slate, John R.

2011-01-01

With distance learning increasing in popularity across the country and the world, a review of the extant literature as it relates to distance learning and face-to-face learning is warranted. In particular, this paper examined distance learning, including a historical overview, prevailing themes in past research, and studies relating the importance…

Pedagogical Models for Enhancing the Cross-Cultural Online Public Health Learning Environment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Banerjee, Srikanta; Firtell, Jill

2017-01-01

Background: Online distance learning (e-learning) is an established method for providing higher education on a global scale due to its potential to reduce inequalities particularly in the area of public health education. Simultaneously, multicultural education is a key component of health education and can be achieved by fostering cultural…

Adaptive Synchronization of Semantically Compressed Instructional Videos for Collaborative Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Phung, Dan; Valetto, Giuseppe; Kaiser, Gail E.; Liu, Tiecheng; Kender, John R.

2007-01-01

The increasing popularity of online courses has highlighted the need for collaborative learning tools for student groups. In this article, we present an e-Learning architecture and adaptation model called AI2TV (Adaptive Interactive Internet Team Video), which allows groups of students to collaboratively view instructional videos in synchrony.…

A SCORM Compliant Courseware Authoring Tool for Supporting Pervasive Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wang, Te-Hua; Chang, Flora Chia-I

2007-01-01

The sharable content object reference model (SCORM) includes a representation of distance learning contents and a behavior definition of how users should interact with the contents. Generally, SCORMcompliant systems were based on multimedia and Web technologies on PCs. We further build a pervasive learning environment, which allows users to read…

Methods and Case Studies for Teaching and Learning about Failure and Safety.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bignell, Victor

1999-01-01

Discusses methods for analyzing case studies of failures of technological systems. Describes two distance learning courses that compare standard models of failure and success with the actuality of given scenarios. Provides teaching and learning materials and information sources for application to aspects of design, manufacture, inspection, use,…

Quality in E-Learning--A Conceptual Framework Based on Experiences from Three International Benchmarking Projects

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ossiannilsson, E.; Landgren, L.

2012-01-01

Between 2008 and 2010, Lund University took part in three international benchmarking projects, "E-xcellence+," the "eLearning Benchmarking Exercise 2009," and the "First Dual-Mode Distance Learning Benchmarking Club." A comparison of these models revealed a rather high level of correspondence. From this finding and…

Learning at the Speed of Light: Deep Learning and Accelerated Online Graduate Courses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Trekles, Anastasia M.

2013-01-01

An increasing number of university programs, particularly at the graduate level, are moving to an accelerated, time-compressed model for online degree offerings. However, the literature revealed that research in distance education effectiveness is still confounded by many variables, including course design and student approach to learning.…

International Perspectives of Distance Learning in Higher Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moore, Joi L., Ed.; Benson, Angela D., Ed.

2012-01-01

This book, written by authors representing 12 countries and five continents, is a collection of international perspectives on distance learning and distance learning implementations in higher education. The perspectives are presented in the form of practical case studies of distance learning implementations, research studies on teaching and…

Internet-Based Distance Learning in Higher Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hofmann, Donald W.

2002-01-01

Suggests that the effectiveness of Internet-based distance learning has increased with its increased popularity. Looks at the differences between the effectiveness of Internet-based distance learning and traditional methods. Indicates that distance learning is more effective because of the necessity for students to become active learners.…

Distance Education and Distance Learning: Some Psychological Considerations.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cropley, Arthur J.; Kahl, Thomas N.

1983-01-01

Compares and contrasts distance education and face-to-face education in terms of selected psychological dimensions, i.e., organization and learning, motivation, learning and communication processes, didactic activities and materials, and evaluation and feedback. Psychological aspects of distance education that may be favorable to learning are also…

Evaluation of a distance-learning immunology and pathology module in a postgraduate biomedical science course.

PubMed

Ryan, M T; Mulholland, C W

2005-01-01

An electronic presentation of materials for a distance-learning immunology and pathology module from a postgraduate biomedical science course is evaluated. Two different electronic presentation formats for the delivery of the educational material to distance learners are assessed. Responses from users of this material highlighted a preference for a format that has a design tailored to distance learning. There was no significant difference in learning outcome between those taking the module on campus and by distance learning. This suggests that the prerequisites for entry, learning materials and direction given to the students studying by distance learning are adequate for these students to achieve the learning objectives outlined in the course. The evaluation also gave direction for areas within the (CAL) application that can be improved for future students.

A Delphi Study on Collaborative Learning in Distance Education: The Faculty Perspective

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

O'Neill, Susan; Scott, Murray; Conboy, Kieran

2011-01-01

This paper focuses on the factors that influence collaborative learning in distance education. Distance education has been around for many years and the use of collaborative learning techniques in distance education is becoming increasingly popular. Several studies have demonstrated the superiority of collaborative learning over traditional modes…

Distance Learning in Higher Education. CHEA Update Number 3.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Council for Higher Education Accreditation, Washington, DC.

This report discusses issues related to distance learning in higher education. Section 1, "The Expanding Universe of Distance Learning," examines: data from a new national survey on higher education distance learning; Internet access in elementary and secondary schools; the 1999 national survey of information technology in higher…

7 CFR 1700.31 - Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 11 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant... § 1700.31 Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program. RUS, through the Telecommunications Program, makes grants and loans to furnish and improve telemedicine services and distance learning...

Tidewater Community College Distance Learning Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tidewater Community Coll., Norfolk, VA.

This study of distance learning at Tidewater Community College (TCC) was conducted to determine enrollment patterns, retention, and success in distance learning courses and student perceptions. Distance learning was defined as students enrolled in one of three modes of course delivery: telecourse, online, and compressed video. The time frame for…

7 CFR 1700.31 - Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 11 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant... § 1700.31 Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program. RUS, through the Telecommunications Program, makes grants and loans to furnish and improve telemedicine services and distance learning...

7 CFR 1700.31 - Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 11 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant... § 1700.31 Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program. RUS, through the Telecommunications Program, makes grants and loans to furnish and improve telemedicine services and distance learning...

7 CFR 1700.31 - Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 11 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant... § 1700.31 Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program. RUS, through the Telecommunications Program, makes grants and loans to furnish and improve telemedicine services and distance learning...

7 CFR 1700.31 - Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 11 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant... § 1700.31 Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program. RUS, through the Telecommunications Program, makes grants and loans to furnish and improve telemedicine services and distance learning...

Distance Learning: A Way of Life-Long Learning

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-09-01

promise of future benefits. 15. SUBJECT TERMS training, educational technology , distributed learning , distance learning , collaboration, online instruction...knowledge." - Aristotle Introduction Modern learning technology assumes various names: distance learning , distributed training, computer-based...training, web-based learning , or advanced distributed learning . No matter the name, the basic concept is using computer technology for instruction with no

Innovation in Open & Distance Learning: Successful Development of Online and Web-Based Learning.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lockwood, Fred, Ed.; Gooley, Anne, Ed.

This book contains 19 papers examining innovation in open and distance learning through development of online and World Wide Web-based learning. The following papers are included: "Innovation in Distributed Learning: Creating the Environment" (Fred Lockwood); "Innovation in Open and Distance Learning: Some Lessons from Experience…

Modern information and telecommunication technologies in educational process as the element of ongoing personnel training for high-tech Russian industry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matyatina, A. N.; Isaev, A. A.; Samovarschikov, Y. V.

2017-01-01

In the current work the issues of staffing high-tech sectors of Russian industry are considered in the context of global geopolitical instability, the comparative analysis of the age structure of domestic companies with the leading Western industrial organizations was conducted, "growth points" of human resources development were defined. For the purpose of informational and telecommunicational implementation in the educational process the analysis of normative-legal documents regulating the requirements to the electronic educational environment and distance learning technologies is presented. The basic models of distance learning technologies and remote resources as part of teaching materials are used. Taking into account the specifics and requirements of industrial enterprises a number of tools and methodology of e-learning based on the identified needs of the industrial sector were offered. The basis of the proposed model is built on one-parameter model through a three-tier learning: kindergarten - secondary - higher education (professional) where the lifecycle of parameter is a list of the industrial enterprises demands to the educational process.

Higher Education through Open and Distance Learning. World Review of Distance Education and Open Learning, Volume 1. A Commonwealth of Learning Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Harry, Keith, Ed.

This book reports on the expansion of open and distance learning during the past decade, examining ways in which open and distance learning for higher education has responded to the needs of the new society, and summarizing the lessons of recent practice for policymakers and educators. After an introductory chapter, "Open and Distance…

Distance-Learning for Advanced Military Education: Using Wargame Simulation Course as an Example

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Keh, Huan-Chao; Wang, Kuei-Min; Wai, Shu-Shen; Huang, Jiung-yao; Hui, Lin; Wu, Ji-Jen

2008-01-01

Distance learning in advanced military education can assist officers around the world to become more skilled and qualified for future challenges. Through well-chosen technology, the efficiency of distance-learning can be improved significantly. In this paper we present the architecture of Advanced Military Education-Distance Learning (AME-DL)…

Making Distance Learning E.R.O.T.I.C.: Applying Interpretation Principles to Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ross, Anne; Siepen, Greg; O'Connor, Sue

2003-01-01

Distance learners are self-directed learners traditionally taught via study books, collections of readings, and exercises to test understanding of learning packages. Despite advances in e-Learning environments and computer-based teaching interfaces, distance learners still lack opportunities to participate in exercises and debates available to…

Accreditation and Assuring Quality in Distance Learning. CHEA Monograph Series, 2002.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Council for Higher Education Accreditation, Washington, DC.

This report describes the scope and impact of distance learning on higher education and identifies the primary challenges that distance learning poses for accreditation. The responses of the accrediting community designed to assure quality in distance learning are outlined. Data from a variety of sources show that 5,655 institutions are accredited…

Distance Learning and Non-Formal Education: Existing Trends and New Possibilities of Distance Learning Experiences.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Romi, Shlomo

2000-01-01

Reviews the characteristics of non-formal education as expressed in various academic-theoretical definitions, presents the links in this field to distance learning, and recommends future directions for exploring distance learning in non-formal education. Discusses the use of information and communication technology and considers problems with…

Selected Papers from the International Conference on College Teaching and Learning (14th, Jacksonville, Florida, April 1-5, 2003).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chambers, Jack A., Ed.

This collection of conference papers includes: "Building a Pedagogical Model for Synchronous Distance Learning Courses" (Panagiotes S. Anastasiades); "Delivery of Courseware using CD-ROM Media" (Brian Brighouse and Denis Edgar-Nevill); "Lessons Learned from Blended Biology Classes" (Arthur L. Buikema, Jr.); "Everything I Ever Needed to Know I…

Factors Affecting University Instructors' Adoption of Web-Based Learning Systems: Case Study of Iran

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Motaghian, Hediyeh; Hassanzadeh, Alireza; Moghadam, Davood Karimzadgan

2013-01-01

In many societies e-learning has become the main mechanism supporting distance education. Although e-learning efforts are considered to be a significant corporate investment, many surveys indicate high drop-out rates or failures. This research uses an integrated model in order to assessing the influence of IS-oriented, psychological and behavioral…

Learner Differences in Perceived Satisfaction of an Online Learning: An Extension to the Technology Acceptance Model in an Arabic Sample

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Al-Azawei, Ahmed; Lundqvist, Karsten

2015-01-01

Online learning constitutes the most popular distance-learning method, with flexibility, accessibility, visibility, manageability and availability as its core features. However, current research indicates that its efficacy is not consistent across all learners. This study aimed to modify and extend the factors of the Technology Acceptance Model…

Supporting Teachers' Professional Learning at a Distance: A Model for Change in At-Risk Contexts

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Warren, Elizabeth A.; Quine, Janine; DeVries, Eva

2012-01-01

This paper examines the effectiveness of a professional learning model developed to support early years teachers in rural and remote communities in Queensland as they began to implement the Australian Curriculum in Mathematics. The data are drawn from 35 teachers at the initial stage of a large, four year longitudinal study RoleM (Representations,…

The diabolo classifier

PubMed

Schwenk

1998-11-15

We present a new classification architecture based on autoassociative neural networks that are used to learn discriminant models of each class. The proposed architecture has several interesting properties with respect to other model-based classifiers like nearest-neighbors or radial basis functions: it has a low computational complexity and uses a compact distributed representation of the models. The classifier is also well suited for the incorporation of a priori knowledge by means of a problem-specific distance measure. In particular, we will show that tangent distance (Simard, Le Cun, & Denker, 1993) can be used to achieve transformation invariance during learning and recognition. We demonstrate the application of this classifier to optical character recognition, where it has achieved state-of-the-art results on several reference databases. Relations to other models, in particular those based on principal component analysis, are also discussed.

The Leadership Roles of Distance Learning Administrators (DLAs) in Increasing Educational Value and Quality Perceptions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McFarlane, Donovan A.

2011-01-01

This paper examines the leadership roles of distance learning administrators (DLAs) in light of the demand and need for value and quality in educational distance learning programs and schools. The author explores the development of distance learning using available and emerging technologies in relation to increased demand for education, training,…

Teaching and Learning at a Distance: What it Takes To Effectively Design, Deliver, and Evaluate Programs.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cyrs, Thomas E., Ed.; Menges, Robert J., Ed.; Svinicki, Marilla D., Ed.

1997-01-01

In this volume, experienced distance educators provide insights into new trends in computer-based teaching and learning in postsecondary education. The book is divided into four parts: (1) Issues and Trends; (2) Instructional Design Principles for Distance Learning; (3) Alternative Delivery Systems for Distance Learning; and (4) Administrative…

Facebook Mediated Interaction and Learning in Distance Learning at Makerere University

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mayende, Godfrey; Muyinda, Paul Birevu; Isabwe, Ghislain Maurice Norbert; Walimbwa, Michael; Siminyu, Samuel Ndeda

2014-01-01

This paper reports on an investigation of the use of Facebook as a tool to mediate learning amongst distance learners at Makerere University, a dual-mode institution offering both conventional and distance learning programs. While conventional courses take 17 weeks in a semester, the distance learners come in for two residential sessions, each…

Distance Learning 2001: Proceedings of the Annual Conference on Distance Teaching & Learning (17th, Madison, Wisconsin, August 8-10, 2001).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wisconsin Univ. System, Madison.

This document contains 82 papers and 6 workshop presentations from a conference on distance teaching and learning. The following are among the papers included: "Examples and Tools for Building Web-Based Learning Experiences" (Steven A. Ackerman, Thomas Whittaker); "Online Testing in Distance Education" (Tricia Ahern);…

Distance Learning for Food Security and Rural Development: A Perspective from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McLean, Scott; Gasperini, Lavinia; Rudgard, Stephen

2002-01-01

The distance learning experiences of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization led to the following suggestions for applying distance learning strategies to the challenges of food security and rural development: use distance learning for the right reasons, be sensitive to context, use existing infrastructure, engage stakeholders, and…

Topics on Distance Learning Conference Proceedings (Hammond, Indiana, June 5-6, 2001).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Purdue Univ., Hammond, IN. Calumet Campus.

The purpose of this conference was to focus attention on the increasing role of distance learning in academia and industry and to inform and educate the participants in several key aspects of distance learning. In addition, the conference spotlights the accomplishments of technology in education and showcases the many leaders in distance learning.…

A Skype-Buddy Model for Blended Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Macharaschwili, Carmen E.; Coggin, Linda Skidmore

2013-01-01

Online learning in higher education allows distance education students to complete degree requirements in virtual environments. Universities are challenged with providing quality education experiences for these students and meet the students' needs for engagement and challenge within a collaborative framework. This study proposes how Voice over…

The Evolution of Distance Learning: Technology-Mediated Interactive Learning.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dede, Christopher J.

1990-01-01

Summarizes a paper prepared for the Office of Technology Assessment (OTA) on the evolution of distance learning which begins by describing technological, the demographic, economic, political, and pedagogical forces involved. A new field is proposed called technology-mediated interactive learning (TMIL), which synthesizes distance learning,…

Quality Assurance in Asian Open and Distance Learning: Policies and Implementation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Darojat, Ojat; Nilson, Michelle; Kaufman, David

2015-01-01

Open universities have emerged as an innovative pillar in the expansion of access to higher education participation, with single-mode distance education providers broadening access in many countries through economies of scale supported by large enrolments. These models raise questions about the quality of education provided. This paper reports on…

Distance Learning: What's Holding Back This Boundless Delivery System?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bruder, Isabelle

1989-01-01

Discusses distance learning, identifies who distance learners may be, and examines issues involved in establishing distance learning systems. Topics discussed include teacher concerns, including job security and certification; curriculum concerns, including state and local requirements and cross-cultural issues; cooperative development,…

Rethinking Lifelong Learning through Online Distance Learning in Chinese Educational Policies, Practices and Research

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yang, Min

2008-01-01

This paper offers a critique of the Chinese philosophy of online distance learning as a means of building a lifelong learning society. Literature about lifelong learning and its implications for online distance learning is reviewed. Documents, reports and research papers are examined to explore the characteristics of the Chinese philosophy of…

Spatial prediction of landslides using a hybrid machine learning approach based on Random Subspace and Classification and Regression Trees

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pham, Binh Thai; Prakash, Indra; Tien Bui, Dieu

2018-02-01

A hybrid machine learning approach of Random Subspace (RSS) and Classification And Regression Trees (CART) is proposed to develop a model named RSSCART for spatial prediction of landslides. This model is a combination of the RSS method which is known as an efficient ensemble technique and the CART which is a state of the art classifier. The Luc Yen district of Yen Bai province, a prominent landslide prone area of Viet Nam, was selected for the model development. Performance of the RSSCART model was evaluated through the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve, statistical analysis methods, and the Chi Square test. Results were compared with other benchmark landslide models namely Support Vector Machines (SVM), single CART, Naïve Bayes Trees (NBT), and Logistic Regression (LR). In the development of model, ten important landslide affecting factors related with geomorphology, geology and geo-environment were considered namely slope angles, elevation, slope aspect, curvature, lithology, distance to faults, distance to rivers, distance to roads, and rainfall. Performance of the RSSCART model (AUC = 0.841) is the best compared with other popular landslide models namely SVM (0.835), single CART (0.822), NBT (0.821), and LR (0.723). These results indicate that performance of the RSSCART is a promising method for spatial landslide prediction.

Neuro-Holistic Learning©: An Integrated Kinesthetic Approach to Cognitive Learning© Using Collaborative Interactive Thought Exchange© in a Blended Environment to Enhance the Learning of Young African American Males

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Osler, James Edward, II; Wright, Mark Anthony

2016-01-01

This paper is part two of the article entitled, "Dynamic Neuroscientific Systemology: Using Tri-Squared Meta-Analysis and Innovative Instructional Design to Develop a Novel Distance Education Model for the Systemic Creation of Engaging Online Learning Environments" published in the July-September 2015 issue of i-manager's "Journal…

Facilities Offered by the University of Ibadan (Nigeria) Distance Learning Centre towards Learners' Academic Goal--An Evaluation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Adegbile, J. A.; Oyekanmi, J. O.

2011-01-01

Distance learners in the University of Ibadan, Nigeria unlike other distance learners of different parts of the world are faced with various educational, social and psychological problems associated with the code of distance learning. The facilities offered by the University of Ibadan distance learning centre towards the users' multifarious needs…

New Ways of Learning: Comparing the Effectiveness of Interactive Online Media in Distance Education with the European Textbook Tradition

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Krämer, Bernd J.; Neugebauer, Jonas; Magenheim, Johannes; Huppertz, Helga

2015-01-01

Although many innovations exploiting web technologies have been suggested in distance higher education, very little original research exists investigating the impact of web-based learning environments on distance students' learning processes and outcomes. To close this gap, four sets of data have been collected in a distance-learning course:…

Application of Distance Learning Technology to Strategic Education.

DTIC Science & Technology

1996-02-26

service or government agency. STRATEGY RESEARCH PROJECT APPLICATION OF DISTANCE LEARNING TECHNOLOGY TO STRATEGIC EDUCATION BY LIEUTENANT COLONEL...APPLICATION OF DISTANCE LEARNING TECHNOLOGY TO STRATEGIC EDUCATION by Lieutenant Colonel Greig W. Mitchell United States Army Commander David M...distance learning technology can also enhance the functions of research and public service. The purpose of research programs in higher education is

Learning deep features with adaptive triplet loss for person reidentification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Zhiqiang; Sang, Nong; Chen, Kezhou; Gao, Changxin; Wang, Ruolin

2018-03-01

Person reidentification (re-id) aims to match a specified person across non-overlapping cameras, which remains a very challenging problem. While previous methods mostly focus on feature extraction or metric learning, this paper makes the attempt in jointly learning both the global full-body and local body-parts features of the input persons with a multichannel convolutional neural network (CNN) model, which is trained by an adaptive triplet loss function that serves to minimize the distance between the same person and maximize the distance between different persons. The experimental results show that our approach achieves very promising results on the large-scale Market-1501 and DukeMTMC-reID datasets.

Occasional Papers in Open and Distance Learning, Number 18.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Donnan, Peter, Ed.

Six papers examine innovations and trends in distance learning, frequently drawing upon empirical research or informal observations on distance learning students at Charles Sturt University (Australia). "On-Line Study Packages for Distance Education: Some Considerations of Conceptual Parameters" (Dirk M. R. Spennemann) discusses issues…

Inter-University Collaboration for Online Teaching Innovation: An Emerging Model

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nerlich, Andrea Perkins; Soldner, James L.; Millington, Michael J.

2012-01-01

Distance education is constantly evolving and improving. To stay current, effective online instructors must utilize the most innovative, evidence-based teaching methods available to promote student learning and satisfaction in their courses. One emerging teaching method, referred to as blended online learning (BOL), involves collaborative…

Scalable Topic Modeling: Online Learning, Diagnostics, and Recommendation

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-03-01

Chinese restaurant processes. Journal of Machine Learning Research, 12:2461–2488, 2011. 15. L. Hannah, D. Blei and W. Powell. Dirichlet process mixtures of...34. S. Ghosh, A. Ungureanu, E. Sudderth, and D. Blei. A Spatial distance dependent Chinese restaurant process for image segmentation. In Neural

The Educational Experiences and Perceptions of At-Risk Post-Secondary Students with a Blended Leaning Model

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Welch, Chuck

2017-01-01

Blended learning is a well-known utilization of technology in the post-secondary classroom. Through the use of technology, college students have the ability to work together and learn at a distance from each other as well as increase learning resources. The technological aspect to the classroom also allows for increased content engagement, and…

Role and Constructivist Competencies of an Online Instructor: Elements of an Online Learning Course

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Parker, Marsha L.

2014-01-01

Distance learning programs in higher education are evolving into the preferred model for how we educate learners in the 21st century. The traditional role of an instructor was focused on creating an effective learning environment based in a physical classroom setting. In this decade, institutions are educating and training online instructors to a…

Tutors' Influence on Distance Language Students' Learning Motivation: Voices from Learners and Tutors

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Xiao, Junhong

2012-01-01

Teachers' influence on students' learning motivation is a well-researched topic. Nevertheless, the majority of such studies are situated in the conventional learning context despite the rapid growth of distance language learning. This study set out to investigate tutors' influence on students' learning motivation in the Chinese distance language…

Challenges Encountered by a Distance Learning Organisation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Malik, Sangeeta

2012-01-01

Distance learning as the name indicates is a learning, learner gets from distant places. In this learning system, learner and educators are separated by space & time. Lots of distance learning organizations are spreading to meet the increased demand of current & future needs of adult education. The rapid spread of these organizations doesn't mean…

Challenges in Delivering Library Services for Distance Learning.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Swaine, Cynthia Wright

The first section of this paper on library services for distance education discusses the status of distance learning in higher education. What distance learning means for libraries is addressed in the second section, including considerations related to diverse locations, agreements with participating institutions, delivery limitations, librarian…

Distance Learning: Information Access and Services for Virtual Users.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Iyer, Hemalata, Ed.

This volume centers broadly on information support services for distance education. The articles in this book can be categorized into two areas: access to information resources for distance learners, and studies of distance learning programs. Contents include: "The Challenges and Benefits of Asynchronous Learning Networks" (Daphne…

Interactive Distance Learning in Connecticut.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pietras, Jesse John; Murphy, Robert J.

This paper provides an overview of distance learning activities in Connecticut and addresses the feasibility of such activities. Distance education programs have evolved from the one dimensional electronic mail systems to the use of sophisticated digital fiber networks. The Middlesex Distance Learning Consortium has developed a long-range plan to…

Educational technology integration and distance learning in respiratory care: practices and attitudes.

PubMed

Hopper, Keith B; Johns, Carol L

2007-11-01

Educational technologies have had an important role in respiratory care. Distance learning via postal correspondence has been used extensively in respiratory care, and Internet-based distance learning is now used in the training of respiratory therapists (RTs), clinical continuing education, and in baccalaureate degree and higher programs for RTs and educators. To describe the current scope of respiratory care educational technology integration, including distance learning. To investigate online research potential in respiratory care. A probabilistic online survey of United States respiratory care program directors was conducted on educational technology practices and attitudes, including distance learning. A parallel exploratory study of United States respiratory care managers was conducted. One-hundred seventy-seven (53%) program directors participated. One-hundred twenty-eight respiratory care managers participated. For instructional purposes, the respiratory care programs heavily use office-productivity software, the Internet, e-mail, and commercial respiratory care content-based computer-based instruction. The programs use, or would use, online resources provided by text publishers, but there is a paucity. Many program directors reported that their faculty use personal digital assistants (PDAs), often in instructional roles. 74.6% of the programs offer no fully online courses, but 61.0% reported at least one course delivered partially online. The managers considered continuing education via online technologies appropriate, but one third reported that they have not/will not hire RTs trained via distance learning. Neither group considered fully online courses a good match for RT training, nor did they consider training via distance learning of comparable quality to on-campus programs. Both groups rated baccalaureate and higher degrees via distance learning higher if the program included face-to-face instruction. Online distance-learning participatory experience generally improved attitudes toward distance learning. There was a good match between manager RT expectations in office-productivity software and program instructional practices. Educational technologies have an important role in respiratory care. Online distance learning for baccalaureate and higher degrees in respiratory care is promising. Online distance learning in respiratory care must include face-to-face instruction. Distance-learning deployment in respiratory care will require resources. A follow-up probabilistic survey of United States respiratory care managers is needed. Online surveys conducted for respiratory care are promising, but neither less expensive nor easier than conventional means.

A Path-Analytic Study of Some Correlates Predicting Persistence and Student's Success in Distance Education in Nigeria

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ojokheta, K. O.

2010-01-01

This study examined the influence of some predictors in the enhancement of persistence and students success in distance education in the two most recognised and respected distance learning institutions in Nigeria--the Distance Learning Institute (DLI) of University of Lagos and Distance Learning Centre of University of Ibadan. The need for this…

The Challenges of Quality Assurance in a Distance Learning Environment. A Report and Recommendations in a Series on Distance Learning Policy Issues.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Southern Regional Education Board, Atlanta, GA.

The Distance Learning Policy Laboratory of the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) and many states and regional organizations are coming to a consensus on the principles and goals that should shape distance learning policies. In the case of quality assurance, the SREB believes there are four guiding principles that states should follow.…

Using Finance Policy To Reduce Barriers to Distance Learning. A Report and Recommendations in a Series on Distance Learning Policy Issues.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Southern Regional Education Board, Atlanta, GA.

This study explored the ways in which state and system financing policies can advance the use of distance learning technologies and the goals outlined in other reports by the Distance Learning Policy Laboratory more effectively. The subcommittee on finance that examined the issue approached the task by establishing a framework that considered:…

The Role of Gender in Distance Learning: A Meta-Analytic Review of Gender Differences in Academic Performance and Self-Efficacy in Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Perkowski, Justine

2013-01-01

This meta-analytic review was performed to determine the relationship between gender and two constructs measuring success in distance learning--academic performance and self-efficacy--with a particular interest in identifying whether females or males have an advantage in distance learning environments. Data from 15 studies resulted in 18 effect…

Classification and recognition of dynamical models: the role of phase, independent components, kernels and optimal transport.

PubMed

Bissacco, Alessandro; Chiuso, Alessandro; Soatto, Stefano

2007-11-01

We address the problem of performing decision tasks, and in particular classification and recognition, in the space of dynamical models in order to compare time series of data. Motivated by the application of recognition of human motion in image sequences, we consider a class of models that include linear dynamics, both stable and marginally stable (periodic), both minimum and non-minimum phase, driven by non-Gaussian processes. This requires extending existing learning and system identification algorithms to handle periodic modes and nonminimum phase behavior, while taking into account higher-order statistics of the data. Once a model is identified, we define a kernel-based cord distance between models that includes their dynamics, their initial conditions as well as input distribution. This is made possible by a novel kernel defined between two arbitrary (non-Gaussian) distributions, which is computed by efficiently solving an optimal transport problem. We validate our choice of models, inference algorithm, and distance on the tasks of human motion synthesis (sample paths of the learned models), and recognition (nearest-neighbor classification in the computed distance). However, our work can be applied more broadly where one needs to compare historical data while taking into account periodic trends, non-minimum phase behavior, and non-Gaussian input distributions.

Can you go the distance? Attending the virtual classroom.

PubMed

Bigony, Lorraine

2010-01-01

Distance learning via the World Wide Web offers convenience and flexibility. Online education connects nurses geographically in a manner that the traditional face-to-face learning environment lacks. Delivered in both a synchronous (real time interaction) or asynchronous (delayed interaction) format, distance programs continue to provide nurses with choice, especially in the pursuit of advanced degrees. This article explores the pros and cons of distance education, in addition to the most popular platform used in distance learning today, the Blackboard Academic Suite. Characteristics of the potential enrollee to ensure a successful distance education experience are also discussed. Distance nursing programs are here to stay. Although rigorous, the ease of accessibility makes distance learning a viable alternative for busy nurses.

Effectiveness of Mobile Learning in Distance Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yousuf, Muhammad Imran

2007-01-01

The main aim of this research is to better understand and measure students' attitudes and perceptions towards the importance of mobile learning in distance education. Results of this survey clearly indicate that facilitating mobile learning can improve the entire distance education by enhancing ways of communication among distance learners, tutors…

A Journey to Legitimacy: The Historical Development of Distance Education through Technology

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Casey, Denise M.

2008-01-01

This article demonstrates the parallels between development of technology and the increased acceptance of distance learning. First, definitions of distance learning are provided. Second, the history of distance learning and its use of technological innovations are presented. Third, an overview of the academic institutions that are offering…

Using Multimedia for Distance Learning in Adult, Career, and Vocational Education. Information Series No. 362.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stammen, Ronald M.

This paper explores how educators are using multimedia for distance learning, beginning with definitions of the concepts of multimedia, hypermedia, hypertext, distance education and distance learning. Three types of telecommunications technologies are described: multimedia with broadcast television, multimedia with interactive video (television),…

E-Learning--A Financial and Strategic Perspective

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ruth, Stephen R.

2006-01-01

In this article, the author discusses three distinct challenges that demand solutions if traditional universities are to successfully confront the economic realities of distance learning: (1) Many traditional universities are not willing to draw useful lessons from the more advantageous financial and IT models of for-profit or other nontraditional…

Developing an Interdisciplinary, Distributed Graduate Course for Twenty-First Century Scientists

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wagner, Helene H.; Murphy, Melanie A.; Holderegger, Rolf; Waits, Lisette

2012-01-01

Graduate programs have placed an increasing emphasis on the importance of interdisciplinary education, but barriers to interdisciplinary training still remain. We present a new model for interdisciplinary, cross-institution graduate teaching that combines the best of local teaching, distance learning, and experiential learning to provide students…

Cooperative Charter Schools: New Enterprises in Instructional Delivery.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hanson, Katherine L.; Hentschke, Guilbert C.

A wide variety of charter schools has emerged since the first charter was granted in 1991. Six distinct models include schools managed by grassroots organizations, schools focused on special student populations, schools centered around distance learning or home learning, business-managed schools, schools structured as teacher cooperatives, and…

A Model for Social Presence in Online Classrooms

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wei, Chun-Wang; Chen, Nian-Shing; Kinshuk,

2012-01-01

It is now possible to create flexible learning environments without time and distance barriers on the internet. However, research has shown that learners typically experience isolation and alienation in online learning environments. These negative experiences can be reduced by enhancing social presence. In order to better facilitate the perceived…

An Organizational Model for Instructional Support at a Community College.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mundell, Jacqueline; Celene-Martel, Coryl; Braziunas, Tom

2003-01-01

Describes the Instructional and Information Support Services (IISS) division at North Seattle Community College, which brings together the college's library, media services, and distance learning units as well as the Teaching and Learning center to support instruction campus-wide. Discusses the campus technological infrastructure, online courses,…

Sparse distance-based learning for simultaneous multiclass classification and feature selection of metagenomic data.

PubMed

Liu, Zhenqiu; Hsiao, William; Cantarel, Brandi L; Drábek, Elliott Franco; Fraser-Liggett, Claire

2011-12-01

Direct sequencing of microbes in human ecosystems (the human microbiome) has complemented single genome cultivation and sequencing to understand and explore the impact of commensal microbes on human health. As sequencing technologies improve and costs decline, the sophistication of data has outgrown available computational methods. While several existing machine learning methods have been adapted for analyzing microbiome data recently, there is not yet an efficient and dedicated algorithm available for multiclass classification of human microbiota. By combining instance-based and model-based learning, we propose a novel sparse distance-based learning method for simultaneous class prediction and feature (variable or taxa, which is used interchangeably) selection from multiple treatment populations on the basis of 16S rRNA sequence count data. Our proposed method simultaneously minimizes the intraclass distance and maximizes the interclass distance with many fewer estimated parameters than other methods. It is very efficient for problems with small sample sizes and unbalanced classes, which are common in metagenomic studies. We implemented this method in a MATLAB toolbox called MetaDistance. We also propose several approaches for data normalization and variance stabilization transformation in MetaDistance. We validate this method on several real and simulated 16S rRNA datasets to show that it outperforms existing methods for classifying metagenomic data. This article is the first to address simultaneous multifeature selection and class prediction with metagenomic count data. The MATLAB toolbox is freely available online at http://metadistance.igs.umaryland.edu/. zliu@umm.edu Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.

Open Classroom: Distance Learning In and Out of Schools. Open and Distance Learning Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bradley, Jo, Ed.

This collection of essays, which is separated into 4 sections, concerns open and distance learning at school level, or grades K-12. The first section, "The Knowledge Society," includes the following chapters: "Classroom Open Learning: A Case of Old Wine in New Bottles?" (Jenkins); "Living and Learning in the Information…

Supporting Distance Learners for Collaborative Problem Solving.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Verdejo, M. F.; Barros, B.; Abad, M. T.

This paper describes a computer-supported environment designed to facilitate distance learning through collaborative problem-solving. The goal is to encourage distance learning students to work together, in order to promote both learning of collaboration and learning through collaboration. Collaboration is defined as working together on a common…

Distance Learning in British Universities: Is It Possible?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lentell, Helen

2012-01-01

The wider context (political and economic) for developing sustainable distance learning in UK universities is encouraging and new learning technologies promise much improved products and services. But conventional campus-based universities struggle to build and/or expand sustainable distance learning provision. This article identifies the core…

Learner Views about a Distance Education Course

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Durak, Gurhan; Ataizi, Murat

2016-01-01

The purpose of the study was to investigate the views of learners experienced in the Distance Learning Platform (DLP), which was prepared according to an online course design model. The participants of the study were 19 learners who took the programming languages course (via the DLP for 14 weeks). Before the application, the preparation of the DLP…

Distance Learning Success--A Perspective from Socio-Technical Systems Theory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wang, Jianfeng; Solan, David; Ghods, Abe

2010-01-01

With widespread adoption of computer-based distance education as a mission-critical component of the institution's educational program, the need for evaluation has emerged. In this research, we aim to expand on the systems approach by offering a model for evaluation based on socio-technical systems theory addressing a stated need in the literature…

John Tracy Clinic/University of San Diego Graduate Program: A Distance Learning Model

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McGinnis, Mary

2010-01-01

The John Tracy Clinic (JTC) has a long history in the development and implementation of distance education courses for parents. It began with the founder of JTC, Louise Tracy, who personally corresponded with parents of young children with hearing loss around the globe to provide them hope, guidance, and encouragement. Mrs. Tracy's correspondence…

Validation of Virtual Learning Team Competencies for Individual Students in a Distance Education Setting

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Topchyan, Ruzanna; Zhang, Jie

2014-01-01

The purpose of this study was twofold. First, the study aimed to validate the scale of the Virtual Team Competency Inventory in distance education, which had initially been designed for a corporate setting. Second, the methodological advantages of Exploratory Structural Equation Modeling (ESEM) framework over Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA)…

Using Satellite Classes to Optimise Access to and Participation in First-Year Business Management: A Case at an Open and Distance-Learning University in South Africa

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Swanepoel, Elana; De Beer, Andreas; Muller, Helene

2009-01-01

We investigated the effect of satellite classes as a component of blended learning, to enhance student performance of the Business Management I and Management I students at an open and distance-learning university. We discuss the evolution of distance education, the interactivities promoted by open and distance learning and the concept of blended…

Exploring Cloud Computing for Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

He, Wu; Cernusca, Dan; Abdous, M'hammed

2011-01-01

The use of distance courses in learning is growing exponentially. To better support faculty and students for teaching and learning, distance learning programs need to constantly innovate and optimize their IT infrastructures. The new IT paradigm called "cloud computing" has the potential to transform the way that IT resources are utilized and…

Cooperative Learning at a Distance: An Experiment with Wikis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Campbell, Katherine; Ellingson, Dee Ann

2010-01-01

The merits of incorporating group work into learning environments are well established. Online classes and other distance learning settings, however, can make it challenging to introduce traditional group projects. Wikis use technology to facilitate group work in distance learning settings. Wikis allow individuals in different locations to…

A Begrudging, Recalcitrant Academic Observes What She's Learning: Distance Learning in Leadership Formation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hess, Lisa M.

2014-01-01

Neither advocacy nor condemnation of distance learning, this essay offers observations and critical reflection on four years' longitudinal engagement with distance learning pedagogies for formation in higher theological education. Instead, readers are invited to curiosity, communal-institutional discernment, and intense ambivalence.…

Greeting You Online: Selecting Web-Based Conferencing Tools for Instruction in E-Learning Mode

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Li, Judy

2014-01-01

Academic distance learning programs have gained popularity and added to the demand for online library services. Librarians are now conducting instruction for distance learning students beyond their traditional work. Technology advancements have enhanced the delivery mode in distance learning across academic disciplines. Online conference tools…

Blended Learning in Distance Education: Sri Lankan Perspective

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liyanagunawardena, T. R.; Adams, A. A.; Rassool, N.; Williams, S. A.

2014-01-01

The purpose of this paper is to explore the implementation of online learning in distance educational delivery at Yellow Fields University (pseudonymous) in Sri Lanka. The implementation of online distance education at the University included the use of blended learning. The policy initiative to introduce online for distance education in Sri Lanka…

Transactional Distance and Second Life: The Effects of Video Game Experience

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Atkinson, Mark

2013-01-01

As a subset of distance education, online learning takes place primarily in learning management systems through asynchronous interaction, that can cause transactional distance between instructor and learners. This study investigated how transactional distance may be affected by the use of Second Life, a 3-D virtual world, as a learning environment…

E-Learning and Distance Education in Nigeria

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ajadi, Timothy Olugbenga; Salawu, Ibrahim Olatunde; Adeoye, Femi Adetunji

2008-01-01

This paper discusses the relevance of e-learning in the position of distance education in Nigeria. It commences by discussing the meaning of e-learning and distance education. It also discusses the historical background of distance education in Nigeria as well as the operations of National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) as the first federal…

Implications of Online Learning for the Conceptual Development and Practice of Distance Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Garrison, Randy

2009-01-01

The purpose of this article is to examine the foundational principles and practices of distance education for the purpose of understanding recent developments in the areas of online and blended learning. It is argued that mainstream distance education has not embraced the full collaborative potential of online learning. Distance education…

Measuring Self-Regulation in Self-Paced Open and Distance Learning Environments

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kocdar, Serpil; Karadeniz, Abdulkadir; Bozkurt, Aras; Buyuk, Koksal

2018-01-01

Previous studies have described many scales for measuring self-regulation; however, no scale has been developed specifically for self-paced open and distance learning environments. Therefore, the aim of this study is to develop a scale for determining the self-regulated learning skills of distance learners in selfpaced open and distance learning…

Mobile Distance Learning with PDAs: Development and Testing of Pedagogical and System Solutions Supporting Mobile Distance Learners

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rekkedal, Torstein; Dye, Aleksander

2007-01-01

The article discusses basic teaching-learning philosophies and experiences from the development and testing of mobile learning integrated with the online distance education system at NKI (Norwegian Knowledge Institute) Distance Education. The article builds on experiences from three European Union (EU) supported "Leonardo da Vinci"…

Collaborative distance learning: Developing an online learning community

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stoytcheva, Maria

2017-12-01

The method of collaborative distance learning has been applied for years in a number of distance learning courses, but they are relatively few in foreign language learning. The context of this research is a hybrid distance learning of French for specific purposes, delivered through the platform UNIV-RcT (Strasbourg University), which combines collaborative activities for the realization of a common problem-solving task online. The study focuses on a couple of aspects: on-line interactions carried out in small, tutored groups and the process of community building online. By analyzing the learner's perceptions of community and collaborative learning, we have tried to understand the process of building and maintenance of online learning community and to see to what extent the collaborative distance learning contribute to the development of the competence expectations at the end of the course. The analysis of the results allows us to distinguish the advantages and limitations of this type of e-learning and thus evaluate their pertinence.

A Critical Examination of the Teaching Methodologies Pertaining to Distance Learning in Geographic Education: Andragogy in an Adult Online Certificate Program

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schultz, Richard B.

2012-01-01

Differences between student audiences are an important aspect not only of traditional learning in higher education, but also in the distance learning environment. Facilitators of distance learning coursework must be cognizant of the differences which adult students bring to the classroom and their varying expectations and reasons for learning.…

Nonlinear Semi-Supervised Metric Learning Via Multiple Kernels and Local Topology.

PubMed

Li, Xin; Bai, Yanqin; Peng, Yaxin; Du, Shaoyi; Ying, Shihui

2018-03-01

Changing the metric on the data may change the data distribution, hence a good distance metric can promote the performance of learning algorithm. In this paper, we address the semi-supervised distance metric learning (ML) problem to obtain the best nonlinear metric for the data. First, we describe the nonlinear metric by the multiple kernel representation. By this approach, we project the data into a high dimensional space, where the data can be well represented by linear ML. Then, we reformulate the linear ML by a minimization problem on the positive definite matrix group. Finally, we develop a two-step algorithm for solving this model and design an intrinsic steepest descent algorithm to learn the positive definite metric matrix. Experimental results validate that our proposed method is effective and outperforms several state-of-the-art ML methods.

Distance Learning With NASA Lewis Research Center's Learning Technologies Project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Petersen, Ruth

1998-01-01

The NASA Lewis Research Center's Learning Technologies Project (LTP) has responded to requests from local school district technology coordinators to provide content for videoconferencing workshops. Over the past year we have offered three teacher professional development workshops that showcase NASA Lewis-developed educational products and NASA educational Internet sites. In order to determine the direction of our involvement with distance learning, the LTP staff conducted a survey of 500 U.S. schools. We received responses from 72 schools that either currently use distance learning or will be using distance learning in 98-99 school year. The results of the survey are summarized in the article. In addition, the article provides information on distance learners, distance learning technologies, and the NASA Lewis LTP videoconferencing workshops. The LTP staff will continue to offer teacher development workshops through videoconferencing during the 98-99 school year. We hope to add workshops on new educational products as they are developed at NASA Lewis.

Learning styles and preferences for live and distance education: an example of a specialisation course in epidemiology.

PubMed

Groenwold, Rolf H H; Knol, Mirjam J

2013-07-02

Distance learning through the internet is increasingly popular in higher education. However, it is unknown how participants in epidemiology courses value live vs. distance education. All participants of a 5-day specialisation course in epidemiology were asked to keep a diary on the number of hours they spent on course activities (both live and distance education). Attendance was not compulsory during the course and participants were therefore also asked for the reasons to attend live education (lectures and practicals). In addition, the relation between participants' learning styles (Index of Learning Styles) and their participation in live and distance education was studied. All 54 (100%) participants in the course completed the questionnaire on attendance and 46 (85%) completed the questionnaire on learning styles. The number of hours attending live education was negatively correlated with the number of hours going studying distance learning materials (Pearson correlation -0.5; p < 0.001). The most important reasons to attend live education was to stay focused during lectures (50%), and to ask questions during practicals (50%). A lack of time was the most important reason not to attend lectures (52%) or practicals (61%). Learning styles were not association with the number of hours spent on live or distance education. Distance learning may play an important role in epidemiology courses, since it allows participants to study whenever and wherever they prefer, which provides the opportunity to combine courses with clinical duties. An important requirement for distance learning education appears to be the possibility to ask questions and to interact with instructors.

Assessing the Applicability of 3D Holographic Technology as an Enhanced Technology for Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kalansooriya, Pradeep; Marasinghe, Ashu; Bandara, K. M. D. N.

2015-01-01

Distance learning has provided an excellent platform for students in geographically remote locations while enabling them to learn at their own pace and convenience. A number of technologies are currently being utilized to conceptualize, design, enhance and foster distance learning. Teleconferences, electronic field trips, podcasts, webinars, video…

Automated Categorization Scheme for Digital Libraries in Distance Learning: A Pattern Recognition Approach

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gunal, Serkan

2008-01-01

Digital libraries play a crucial role in distance learning. Nowadays, they are one of the fundamental information sources for the students enrolled in this learning system. These libraries contain huge amount of instructional data (text, audio and video) offered by the distance learning program. Organization of the digital libraries is…

Distance Learning for Mobile Internet Users

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Necat, Beran

2007-01-01

This paper provides an overview on the current state of art in the field of Distance learning for mobile users. It mentions a large range of technologies, services and approaches that may be used to bring distance learning to mobile internet users. These technologies are supposed to considerably increase innovative e-learning solutions for the…

Vocational Education Distance Learning Delivery System. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hardy, Darcy Walsh

A project was conducted to identify criteria and procedures for using a distance learning delivery system at the University of Texas TeleLearning Center to teach Health Occupations II to high school seniors. Another objective was expanding the current distance learning program for health occupations to include between 15 and 20 school districts.…

The Impact of Student Motivation on Participation and Academic Performance in Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pittman, Candice Nicole

2013-01-01

This study investigated the impact of motivation on students' participation and academic performance in distance learning. Distance learning continues to grow in popularity as more and more students enroll in distance education courses. These courses require more responsibility on the part of the student. Some students are unaware of the amount of…

Learning non-local dependencies.

PubMed

Kuhn, Gustav; Dienes, Zoltán

2008-01-01

This paper addresses the nature of the temporary storage buffer used in implicit or statistical learning. Kuhn and Dienes [Kuhn, G., and Dienes, Z. (2005). Implicit learning of nonlocal musical rules: implicitly learning more than chunks. Journal of Experimental Psychology-Learning Memory and Cognition, 31(6) 1417-1432] showed that people could implicitly learn a musical rule that was solely based on non-local dependencies. These results seriously challenge models of implicit learning that assume knowledge merely takes the form of linking adjacent elements (chunking). We compare two models that use a buffer to allow learning of long distance dependencies, the Simple Recurrent Network (SRN) and the memory buffer model. We argue that these models - as models of the mind - should not be evaluated simply by fitting them to human data but by determining the characteristic behaviour of each model. Simulations showed for the first time that the SRN could rapidly learn non-local dependencies. However, the characteristic performance of the memory buffer model rather than SRN more closely matched how people came to like different musical structures. We conclude that the SRN is more powerful than previous demonstrations have shown, but it's flexible learned buffer does not explain people's implicit learning (at least, the affective learning of musical structures) as well as fixed memory buffer models do.

Distance learning perspectives.

PubMed

Pandza, Haris; Masic, Izet

2013-01-01

The development of modern technology and the Internet has enabled the explosive growth of distance learning. distance learning is a process that is increasingly present in the world. This is the field of education focused on educating students who are not physically present in the traditional classrooms or student's campus. described as a process where the source of information is separated from the students in space and time. If there are situations that require the physical presence of students, such as when a student is required to physically attend the exam, this is called a hybrid form of distance learning. This technology is increasingly used worldwide. The Internet has become the main communication channel for the development of distance learning.

Machine Learning Prediction of the Energy Gap of Graphene Nanoflakes Using Topological Autocorrelation Vectors.

PubMed

Fernandez, Michael; Abreu, Jose I; Shi, Hongqing; Barnard, Amanda S

2016-11-14

The possibility of band gap engineering in graphene opens countless new opportunities for application in nanoelectronics. In this work, the energy gaps of 622 computationally optimized graphene nanoflakes were mapped to topological autocorrelation vectors using machine learning techniques. Machine learning modeling revealed that the most relevant correlations appear at topological distances in the range of 1 to 42 with prediction accuracy higher than 80%. The data-driven model can statistically discriminate between graphene nanoflakes with different energy gaps on the basis of their molecular topology.

Open and Distance Learning Today. Routledge Studies in Distance Education Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lockwood, Fred, Ed.

This book contains the following papers on open and distance learning today: "Preface" (Daniel); "Big Bang Theory in Distance Education" (Hawkridge); "Practical Agenda for Theorists of Distance Education" (Perraton); "Trends, Directions and Needs: A View from Developing Countries" (Koul); "American…

Guidance on the Use of Learning Strategies in Distance Education (DE) as a Function of Age and Gender

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Alliprandini, Paula Mariza Zedu; Pavesi, Marilza Aparecida; Dayanne, Vicentini; Sekitani, Juliane Tiemi

2015-01-01

This study aims to determine whether there are differences in the use of learning strategies used by students enrolled in courses offered in the format of Distance Learning (DL) by gender and age of participants. A total of 402 students responded to a range of learning strategies evaluations-version adapted for distance learning, containing 49…

Transactional Distance as a Predictor of Perceived Learner Satisfaction in Distance Learning Courses: A Case Study of Bachelor of Education Arts Program, University of Nairobi, Kenya

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mbwesa, Joyce Kanini

2014-01-01

There is a long history of study and recognition of the critical role of interaction in supporting and even defining distance education. Interaction has been identified as key to the success of distance learning. It is key in fostering, supporting and engaging in the learning process. Moore (1989) posits that the physical distance that exists in…

Designing Empathetic Animated Agents for a B-Learning Training Environment within the Electrical Domain

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hernández, Yasmin; Pérez-Ramírez, Miguel; Zatarain-Cabada, Ramon; Barrón-Estrada, Lucia; Alor-Hernández, Giner

2016-01-01

Electrical tests involve high risk; therefore utility companies require highly qualified electricians and efficient training. Recently, training for electrical tests has been supported by virtual reality systems; nonetheless, these training systems are not yet adaptive. We propose a b-learning model to support adaptive and distance training. The…

Distance Learning and Cloud Computing: "Just Another Buzzword or a Major E-Learning Breakthrough?"

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Romiszowski, Alexander J.

2012-01-01

"Cloud computing is a model for the enabling of ubiquitous, convenient, and on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources (e.g., networks, servers, storage, applications, and other services) that can be rapidly provisioned and released with minimal management effort or service provider interaction." This…

Professional Learning: A Collaborative Model for Online Teaching and Development

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bowser, Audrey; Davis, Kimberley; Singleton, Jacques; Small, Topeka

2017-01-01

This article examined a unique collaborative initiative between a team of graduate level faculty to improve the quality of course development and delivery using a collaborative review process. The collaborative review of teaching has become a widely accepted means for assuring quality distance learning coursework and for the purpose of evaluating…

Distance Learning in Clinical Transplantation: A Successful Model in Post-Graduate Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Halawa, Ahmed; Sharma, Ajay; Bridson, Julie M.; Lyon, Sarah; Prescott, Denise; Guha, Arpan; Taylor, David

2017-01-01

Background and Purpose: There are misconceptions among clinicians and educational bodies that online courses would not suit clinically orientated medical education, where bedside management and direct contact with real patients is the key to the learning process. Whereas, the proponents of online education believe that a well-designed and properly…

Real Options Valuation of e-Learning Projects

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Freitas, Angilberto; Brandao, Luiz

2010-01-01

New information and communication technologies have been gaining widespread use in Distance Education (DE) models. At the same time, the uncertainty in the market demand for this form of higher education is such that the valuation of "e-Learning" projects has become increasingly difficult and complex. This is due to the fact that…

Using Social Media Technologies to Enhance Online Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Friedman, Linda Weiser; Friedman, Hershey H.

2013-01-01

Models of distance education have evolved over decades, just in time to collide with modern pedagogies in which communication, interaction, student engagement, and active learning are of critical importance. The number of college students taking online classes continues to grow. Today, nearly 30% of college students are taking at least one online…

Adding Value: Open Online Learning and the MBA

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fitzgerald, Rachel; Anderson, Maggie; Thompson, Ross

2015-01-01

Evidence suggests that MOOCs are being used as a strategic tool to explore alternative models of course delivery (Allen & Seaman, 2013) and this paper shares insight into an example of such innovation for Business School Education. Gateway MBA draws on examples of open learning worldwide to create a MOOC to extend the MBA distance learning…

Mobile Device Intervention for Student Support Services in Distance Education Context--FRAME Model Perspective

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kumar, Lalita S.; Jamatia, Biplab; Aggarwal, A. K.; Kannan, S.

2011-01-01

This paper reports the findings of a study conducted to analyse the effect of mobile device intervention for student support services and to gauge its use for enhancing teaching--learning process as a future study in the context of offer of Distance Education programmes. The study was conducted with the learners of the coveted Post Graduate…

Placing Theory into Practice: An Exploration of Library Services to Distance Learners at Jacksonville State University

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tang, Yingqi

2009-01-01

Distance education or e-Learning, a non-traditional education model making use of information technology, has developed rapidly in the 21st century. Pedagogical tools such as online courses and videoconferencing initiatives have been widely used to deliver education to students at any time, and in any geographical location. The advantage of…

Tele-Proximity: Tele-Community of Inquiry Model. Facial Cues for Social, Cognitive, and Teacher Presence in Distance Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Themeli, Chryssa; Bougia, Anna

2016-01-01

Distance education is expanding in all continents, and the use of video has dominated internet. Synchronous Video Communication (SVC) has not been an option thoroughly investigated and practitioners, who use and design synchronous learning scenarios, are in urgent need of guidance. Distant learners face many barriers, and as a result, they drop…

Facilitating Distance Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rossman, Mark H., Ed.; Rossman, Maxine E., Ed.

1995-01-01

This collection of articles on distance learning reflects the perspectives and concerns of the learner and the facilitator of learning in distance education setting. Eight chapters are included: (1) "The Evolution and Advantages of Distance Education" (John E. Cantelon) traces the history of distance education and demonstrates how it transcends…

Discriminative least squares regression for multiclass classification and feature selection.

PubMed

Xiang, Shiming; Nie, Feiping; Meng, Gaofeng; Pan, Chunhong; Zhang, Changshui

2012-11-01

This paper presents a framework of discriminative least squares regression (LSR) for multiclass classification and feature selection. The core idea is to enlarge the distance between different classes under the conceptual framework of LSR. First, a technique called ε-dragging is introduced to force the regression targets of different classes moving along opposite directions such that the distances between classes can be enlarged. Then, the ε-draggings are integrated into the LSR model for multiclass classification. Our learning framework, referred to as discriminative LSR, has a compact model form, where there is no need to train two-class machines that are independent of each other. With its compact form, this model can be naturally extended for feature selection. This goal is achieved in terms of L2,1 norm of matrix, generating a sparse learning model for feature selection. The model for multiclass classification and its extension for feature selection are finally solved elegantly and efficiently. Experimental evaluation over a range of benchmark datasets indicates the validity of our method.

Distance Learning '99. Proceedings of the Annual Conference on Distance Teaching and Learning (15th, Madison, Wisconsin, August 4-6, 1999).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wisconsin Univ. System, Madison.

This document contains 71 papers and 11 workshop presentations on distance teaching and learning from a conference on educational research. The following are among the papers included: "Bridging Distances and Differences" (Nancy Anderson); "The Role of Site Directors in Faculty and Student Success" (Edith M. Barnett, Jeanie P.…

What's the Difference, Still? A Follow-Up Review of the Quantitative Research Methodology in Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Randolph, Justus

2005-01-01

A high quality review of the distance learning literature from 1992-1999 concluded that most of the research on distance learning had serious methodological flaws. This paper presents the results of a small-scale replication of that review. From three leading distance education journals, a sample of 66 articles was categorized by study type and…

A Comparative Study of Student Satisfaction Level in Distance Learning and Live Classroom at Higher Education Level

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mahmood, Azhar; Mahmood, Sheikh Tariq; Malik, Allah Bakhsh

2012-01-01

The technology has embraced the innovative learning methodologies. Distance Learning has taken the place of traditional face-to-face educational environment. The purpose of this study was to compare the level of student satisfaction of graduate distance learning educational psychology course to a traditional classroom educational psychology course…

Effectiveness of Computer-Based Educational Technology in Distance Learning: A Review of the Literature.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lesh, Steven G.; Rampp, Lary C.

Learning at a distance has been on the fringe of educational acceptance since the first correspondence course was delivered through the mail system in return for academic credit. As distance learning has matured, elements of enhanced instructional design and advances in educational technology have migrated this medium of learning closer to the…

Distance Learning: Practice and Dilemmas

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tatkovic, Nevenka; Sehanovic, Jusuf; Ruzic, Maja

2006-01-01

In accordance with the European processes of integrated and homogeneous education, the paper presents the essential viewpoints and questions covering the establishment and development of "distance learning" (DL) in Republic of Croatia. It starts from the advantages of distance learning versus traditional education taking into account…

7 CFR 1703.100 - Purpose.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... RURAL DEVELOPMENT Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program-General § 1703.100 Purpose. The purpose of the Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) Loan and Grant Program is to encourage and improve telemedicine services and distance learning services in rural areas through the use of...

7 CFR 1703.100 - Purpose.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... RURAL DEVELOPMENT Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program-General § 1703.100 Purpose. The purpose of the Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) Loan and Grant Program is to encourage and improve telemedicine services and distance learning services in rural areas through the use of...

7 CFR 1703.100 - Purpose.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... RURAL DEVELOPMENT Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program-General § 1703.100 Purpose. The purpose of the Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) Loan and Grant Program is to encourage and improve telemedicine services and distance learning services in rural areas through the use of...

7 CFR 1703.100 - Purpose.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... RURAL DEVELOPMENT Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program-General § 1703.100 Purpose. The purpose of the Distance Learning and Telemedicine (DLT) Loan and Grant Program is to encourage and improve telemedicine services and distance learning services in rural areas through the use of...

Distance Learning and the Music Teacher: Before Signing Up for a Distance-Learning Program, It Is Essential to Learn as much about the Program as Possible

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sherbon, James W.; Kish, David L.

2005-01-01

Most music teachers today are accustomed to teaching and learning practices that have undergone little change throughout many decades. Face-to-face instruction in music education has been the norm at all levels, although elements of technology and distance learning have filtered into their personal and professional lives, often in small and…

Predicting Flavonoid UGT Regioselectivity

PubMed Central

Jackson, Rhydon; Knisley, Debra; McIntosh, Cecilia; Pfeiffer, Phillip

2011-01-01

Machine learning was applied to a challenging and biologically significant protein classification problem: the prediction of avonoid UGT acceptor regioselectivity from primary sequence. Novel indices characterizing graphical models of residues were proposed and found to be widely distributed among existing amino acid indices and to cluster residues appropriately. UGT subsequences biochemically linked to regioselectivity were modeled as sets of index sequences. Several learning techniques incorporating these UGT models were compared with classifications based on standard sequence alignment scores. These techniques included an application of time series distance functions to protein classification. Time series distances defined on the index sequences were used in nearest neighbor and support vector machine classifiers. Additionally, Bayesian neural network classifiers were applied to the index sequences. The experiments identified improvements over the nearest neighbor and support vector machine classifications relying on standard alignment similarity scores, as well as strong correlations between specific subsequences and regioselectivities. PMID:21747849

Learning styles and preferences for live and distance education: an example of a specialisation course in epidemiology

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Distance learning through the internet is increasingly popular in higher education. However, it is unknown how participants in epidemiology courses value live vs. distance education. Methods All participants of a 5-day specialisation course in epidemiology were asked to keep a diary on the number of hours they spent on course activities (both live and distance education). Attendance was not compulsory during the course and participants were therefore also asked for the reasons to attend live education (lectures and practicals). In addition, the relation between participants’ learning styles (Index of Learning Styles) and their participation in live and distance education was studied. Results All 54 (100%) participants in the course completed the questionnaire on attendance and 46 (85%) completed the questionnaire on learning styles. The number of hours attending live education was negatively correlated with the number of hours going studying distance learning materials (Pearson correlation −0.5; p < 0.001). The most important reasons to attend live education was to stay focused during lectures (50%), and to ask questions during practicals (50%). A lack of time was the most important reason not to attend lectures (52%) or practicals (61%). Learning styles were not association with the number of hours spent on live or distance education. Conclusion Distance learning may play an important role in epidemiology courses, since it allows participants to study whenever and wherever they prefer, which provides the opportunity to combine courses with clinical duties. An important requirement for distance learning education appears to be the possibility to ask questions and to interact with instructors. PMID:23819522

A Quantitative Cost Effectiveness Model for Web-Supported Academic Instruction

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cohen, Anat; Nachmias, Rafi

2006-01-01

This paper describes a quantitative cost effectiveness model for Web-supported academic instruction. The model was designed for Web-supported instruction (rather than distance learning only) characterizing most of the traditional higher education institutions. It is based on empirical data (Web logs) of students' and instructors' usage…

Trend of E-Learning: The Service Mashup

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yen, Neil Y.; Shih, Timothy K.; Jin, Qun; Hsu, Hui-Huang; Chao, Louis R.

2010-01-01

With the improvement of internet technologies and multimedia resources, traditional learning has been replaced by distance learning, web-based learning or others' e-learning learning styles. According to distance learning, there are many research organizations and companies who make efforts in developing the relevant systems. But they lack…

Future Directions in Distance Learning and Communication Technologies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shih, Timothy; Hung, Jason

2007-01-01

Future Directions in Distance Learning and Communication Technologies presents theoretical studies and practical solutions for engineers, educational professionals, and graduate students in the research areas of e-learning, distance education, and instructional design. This book provides readers with cutting-edge solutions and research directions…

A Review of Two Distance Learning Books [book review].

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Koszalka, Tiffany A.; Spector, J. Michael

2003-01-01

Reviews two books that are representative of the substantive books aimed at those who wish to design effective distance learning. Together these books provide a reasonably complete perspective on how to design effective distance learning. They have many strengths, and few weaknesses. (SLD)

Globalization, Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) and Open/Distance Learning in Nigeria: Trends, Issues and Solution

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Olusola, Akande Joshua; Alaba, Sofowora Olaniyi

2011-01-01

The main thrust of this paper is to discuss the development of open and distance education in Nigeria and the major manifestations of the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in education in open and distance learning. This study further discusses the importance and use of ICTs in open and distance learning in making education…

Blending Face-to-Face and Distance Learning Methods in Adult and Career-Technical Education. Practice Application Brief No. 23.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wonacott, Michael E.

Both face-to-face and distance learning methods are currently being used in adult education and career and technical education. In theory, the advantages of face-to-face and distance learning methods complement each other. In practice, however, both face-to-face and information and communications technology (ICT)-based distance programs often rely…

Dental hygiene students' perceptions of distance learning: do they change over time?

PubMed

Sledge, Rhonda; Vuk, Jasna; Long, Susan

2014-02-01

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences dental hygiene program established a distant site where the didactic curriculum was broadcast via interactive video from the main campus to the distant site, supplemented with on-line learning via Blackboard. This study compared the perceptions of students towards distance learning as they progressed through the 21 month curriculum. Specifically, the study sought to answer the following questions: Is there a difference in the initial perceptions of students on the main campus and at the distant site toward distance learning? Do students' perceptions change over time with exposure to synchronous distance learning over the course of the curriculum? All 39 subjects were women between the ages of 20 and 35 years. Of the 39 subjects, 37 were Caucasian and 2 were African-American. A 15-question Likert scale survey was administered at 4 different periods during the 21 month program to compare changes in perceptions toward distance learning as students progressed through the program. An independent sample t-test and ANOVA were utilized for statistical analysis. At the beginning of the program, independent samples t-test revealed that students at the main campus (n=34) perceived statistically significantly higher effectiveness of distance learning than students at the distant site (n=5). Repeated measures of ANOVA revealed that perceptions of students at the main campus on effectiveness and advantages of distance learning statistically significantly decreased whereas perceptions of students at distant site statistically significantly increased over time. Distance learning in the dental hygiene program was discussed, and replication of the study with larger samples of students was recommended.

Exploring Differences between Self-Regulated Learning Strategies of High and Low Achievers in Open Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Geduld, Bernadette

2016-01-01

Open distance students differ in their preparedness for higher education studies. Students who are less self-regulated risk failure and drop out in the challenging milieu of open distance learning. In this study, the differences between the application of self-regulated learning strategies by low and high achievers were explored. A multi-method…

e-Learning for Expanding Distance Education in Tertiary Level in Bangladesh: Problems and Progress

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Al-Masum, Md. Abdullah; Chowdhury, Saiful Islam

2013-01-01

E-learning has broadly become an important enabler to promote distance education (DE) and lifelong learning in most of the developed countries, but in Bangladesh it is still a new successful progressive system for the learning communities. Distance education is thought to be introduced as an effective way of educating people of all sections in…

Learner Agency in Language Learning: The Story of a Distance Learner of EFL in China

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Xiao, Junhong

2014-01-01

Learner agency plays a key role in self-regulated learning. Yet, there is a paucity of research into its role in the distance learning context. Using reflective narratives written by a distance learner of English in China, this longitudinal case study aims to investigate the ways in which learner agency mediates the language learning in the…

Reducing the distance: equity issues in distance learning in public education

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Campbell, Patricia B.; Storo, Jennifer

1996-12-01

Distance learning and educational equity both began with an emphasis on access, on providing underserved students with an increased access to education. Today definitions of equity have gone beyond simple access to include equal or equivalent treatment and outcomes while definitions of underserved students have expanded to include girls, children of color, children with limited English proficiency and children with disabilities. At the same time the definition of distance learning has expanded to include new technologies, new audiences and new roles. Based on these new definitions and roles, the article raises a number of equity challenges for distance learning educators centering around who is taught, what is taught and how the teaching is done. To answer these challenges, a series of recommendations are suggested that educators can implement to make distance learning a leader in increasing educational equity for all students. The time to act is now.

The use of multimodal strategies for distance education in the GRECCs.

PubMed

Kresevic, Denise; Burant, Christopher; Denton, Jennifer; Heath, Barbara; Kypriotakis, George

2011-01-01

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has found distance education to be particularly valuable as a means to disseminate information to large numbers of busy learners in geographically diverse settings. Specifically, Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Centers (GRECCs) of the VA have used various forms of distance learning to provide geriatrics-focused education to diverse health care providers. Such formats allow programs to be available to audiences regardless of distance or time. Although the distance-learning format has clear benefits, there are also some barriers that have hindered its wider adoption, including technical difficulties and ease of use. Organizers of distance education programs are challenged to overcome these barriers to provide a quality learning experience for the audience. The GRECCs will likely continue to be leaders in exploring innovative distance-learning strategies to accomplish their mission of quality geriatric education.

Designing Instruction for the Distance Learner

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Asunda, Paul A.

2010-01-01

A changing education landscape, diverse learner needs and technological advancements make this the perfect time for online and distance learning. Distance learning is increasingly becoming a preferred means for individuals to gain access to education and job preparation opportunities; this meets the public's learning needs "and" that of an…

Instructor and Student Attitudes Toward Distance Learning.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Inman, Elliot; Kerwin, Michael; Mayes, Larry

1999-01-01

Discusses data collected from 11 distance-learning classes. The instructors were willing to teach distance-learning classes again, but said the courses were of equal or lesser quality than traditional classes. The 334 students surveyed were highly satisfied with the courses and instructors. Contains 17 references. (TGO)

Cultivating a Community of Learners in a Distance Learning Postgraduate Course for Language Professionals

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Konstantinidis, Angelos; Goria, Cecilia

2016-01-01

The purpose of this contribution is to share reflections and practices in cultivating a community of learners in the context of a professional development programme at Master's level for language teachers. The programme implements a highly participatory pedagogical model of online learning which combines the Community of Inquiry (CoI) model…

Mind the Gap: Enabling Online Faculty and Instructional Designers in Mapping New Models for Quality Online Courses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Scoppio, Grazia; Luyt, Ilka

2017-01-01

Distance education has provided the foundation for new generations of learning, including courses delivered through various web-based educational technologies, also referred to as online learning. Many post-secondary institutions face the challenge of creating processes and systems to support instructors who are required to design, deliver, and…

M-Readiness Assessment Model Development and Validation: Investigation of Readiness Index and Factors Affecting Readiness

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bakhsh, Muhammad; Mahmood, Amjad; Sangi, Nazir Ahmed

2018-01-01

It is important for distance learning institutions to be well prepared before designing and implementing any new technology based learning system to justify the investment and minimize failure risk. It can be achieved by systematically assessing the readiness of all stakeholders. This paper first proposes an m-readiness assessment process and…

The Development and Application of Distance Learning Courses on the Internet.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fuks, Hugo; Gerosa, Marco Aurelio; Lucena, Carlos Jose Pereira de

2002-01-01

Presents the methodology, results, and difficulties encountered in the development and delivery of a course through the Internet at a university in Rio de Janeiro. Provides a model for group work, including group discussions; and shows how a Web-based environment can be used to provide support and to facilitate cooperative learning. (Author/LRW)

Humanizing the Technological Learning Experience: The Role of Support Services as Socialization in a Human Resource Development Distance Education Program.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hatcher, Tim; Craig, Bob

The University of Arkansas developed a distance education (DE) baccalaureate degree program in human resource development (HRD) that may serve as a model for developing DE at any level. The program, which was designed on the basis of a statewide needs assessment and competencies researched by the American Society for Training and Development, is…

Acculturation and Perceived Social Distance among Arabs and Saudi Arabians in an ESL Situation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Al-Qahtani, Abdulkhaleq A.

2016-01-01

The main purpose of this study was to explore the perceived social distance among a small Arab community residing in a college town in the Midwest of the USA. The study examines its possible impact on the process of learning/acquiring English as a second language (ESL). It draws on the findings and contentions of the acculturation model as…

Practice Makes Learning.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Neill, Judy

This paper focuses on how people learn to help educators design curriculum that will enable students to successfully complete a distance learning class. Up-front organization, clear communication about performance expectations, outcome driven assessment, and imaginative learning strategies are critical to successful distance learning.…

Developing Distance Learning Courses in a "Traditional" University.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lawton, Sally; Barnes, Richard

1998-01-01

Comparison of distance learning that was developed with a business-planning approach (market research, cost-benefit analysis, feasibility study, strategic marketing) with one that did not use these techniques showed that business planning ensures that distance-learning courses are not viewed as a "cheap" option. The method identifies…

Designing, Developing and Implementing WWW-Based Distance Learning.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Riley, Peter C.

The rapid advancement of communication technologies is resulting in a wide array of design and development choices for distance learning projects. The 58th Special Operations Wing at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico, is developing a prototype distance learning project designed to serve geographically separated learner populations. Project staff…

Development of a Framework for Guiding Interaction Design in Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Li, Wei

2015-01-01

As one of the most critical elements in distance learning, interaction has been identified empirically as increasing learner motivation, satisfaction, participation, communication, and achievement. Fostering pedagogically effective interaction is a major challenge for educators in distance learning. In response to this challenge, the goal of this…

An Investigation of Teaching Strategy in the Distance Learning Mathematics Classroom

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

DePriter, Tiffany

2013-01-01

Distance learning has become increasingly popular among higher learning institutions, and more academic disciplines, such as mathematics, are now being offered at a distance. This experimental study investigated whether an objectivist-based teaching strategy or a constructivist-based teaching strategy yields greater achievement scores for adult…

Language Distance Learning for the Digital Generation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Duran-Cerda, Dolores

2010-01-01

The purpose of this article was to shed light on the potential of distance learning to overcome challenges in distance, space, time, and human and economic resources that limit access to language learning opportunities in cultural, literary, historical, geographical, and cross-cultural frames. Language and literature educators collectively have…

Manpower Development for Workers in Tertiary Institutions: Distance Learning Approach

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hassan, Moshood Ayinde

2011-01-01

The purpose of this study is to determine the extent to which workers patronize distance learning approach to further their education. Other purposes include: determine problems facing workers in the process of improving their knowledge and skills through distance learning approach; establish the level of attainment of manpower development…

The Distance Learning of Foreign Languages: A Research Agenda

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

White, Cynthia

2014-01-01

Research into the distance learning of languages is now established as a significant avenue of enquiry in language teaching, with evident research trajectories in several domains. This article selects and analyses significant areas of investigation in distance language learning and teaching to identify new and emerging gaps, along with research…

Distance Learning in Scientific and Professional Fields of Communication (Interdisciplinary Approach)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Skorikova, Tatyana Petrovna; Khromova, Sergey Sergeevich; Dneprovskaya, Natalia Vitalievna

2016-01-01

Modern level of informational technologies development allows the authors of educational courses to decrease their dependence from technical specialists and to independently develop distance-learning courses and their separate online components, which require special methodical learning. The aim of present study is to develop a distance-learning…

Evaluation of Hybrid and Distance Education Learning Environments in Spain

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ferrer-Cascales, Rosario; Walker, Scott L.; Reig-Ferrer, Abilio; Fernandez-Pascual, Maria Dolores; Albaladejo-Blazquez, Natalia

2011-01-01

This article describes the adaptation and validation of the "Distance Education Learning Environments Survey" (DELES) for use in investigating the qualities found in distance and hybrid education psycho-social learning environments in Spain. As Europe moves toward post-secondary student mobility, equanimity in access to higher education,…

Effects of Distance Learning on Learning Effectiveness

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liu, Hong-Cheng; Yen, Jih-Rong

2014-01-01

The development of computers in the past two decades has resulted in the changes of education in enterprises and schools. The advance of computer hardware and platforms allow colleges generally applying distance courses to instruction that both Ministry of Education and colleges have paid attention to the development of Distance Learning. To…

7 CFR 1700.57 - Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 11 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program. 1700.57 Section 1700.57 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued... Authorities § 1700.57 Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program. (a) Administrator: The...

Nursing Distance Learning Course Comparison of Assignments and Examination Scores

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mundine, Jennifer

2016-01-01

Nursing programs have embraced distance learning in their curricula, but discussion is ongoing about course assignments and grading criteria to increase examination scores in nursing distance learning courses. Because course examinations are a predictor of success on the postgraduate licensing examination (NCLEX-RN), the purpose of this study was…

7 CFR 1700.57 - Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 11 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program. 1700.57 Section 1700.57 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued... Authorities § 1700.57 Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program. (a) Administrator: The...

7 CFR 1700.57 - Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 11 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program. 1700.57 Section 1700.57 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued... Authorities § 1700.57 Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program. (a) Administrator: The...

7 CFR 1700.57 - Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 11 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program. 1700.57 Section 1700.57 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued... Authorities § 1700.57 Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program. (a) Administrator: The...

7 CFR 1700.57 - Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 7 Agriculture 11 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program. 1700.57 Section 1700.57 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued... Authorities § 1700.57 Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program. (a) Administrator: The...

Virtual Bioinformatics Distance Learning Suite

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tolvanen, Martti; Vihinen, Mauno

2004-01-01

Distance learning as a computer-aided concept allows students to take courses from anywhere at any time. In bioinformatics, computers are needed to collect, store, process, and analyze massive amounts of biological and biomedical data. We have applied the concept of distance learning in virtual bioinformatics to provide university course material…

Sustainable Assessment and Evaluation Strategies for Open and Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Okonkwo, Charity Akuadi

2010-01-01

This paper first presents an overview of the concepts of assessment and evaluation in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) environment. The large numbers of students and numerous courses make assessment and evaluation very difficult and administrative nightmare at Distance Learning (DL) institutions. These challenges informed exploring issues relating…

Costing Distance Education and Open Learning in Sub-Saharan Africa: Working Group on Distance Education and Open Learning-- A Survey of Policy and Practice. Final Report

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Commonwealth of Learning, 2004

2004-01-01

Ideological arguments are made for open learning, economic ones for distance education. If it can produce similar results to those of conventional education at a lower cost, then distance education has a powerful appeal. With increasing demand for access to educational opportunities at all levels, and often decreasing budgets in real terms for…

Strategy for a Sustained Quality Delivery Mode of ODL Programmes for Massive Enrollments and E-Learning: The Case for Zimbabwe Open University

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kabanda, Gabriel

2014-01-01

The market dynamics in distance education has precipitated phenomenal growth opportunities in enrollments and e-learning. The purpose of the paper was to develop a strategy for sustained quality delivery mode of distance education progammes that precipitate massive enrollments and e-learning in an open and distance learning (ODL) institution using…

Assessing Learning Styles among Students with and without Learning Disabilities at a Distance-Learning University

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Heiman, Tali

2006-01-01

Differences in the learning styles of students with and without learning disabilities (LD) at a distance-learning university were examined. Two hundred and twelve students answered self-report questionnaires on their learning styles. Results revealed that students with LD preferred to use more stepwise processing, including memorizing and…

E-Learning in Malaysia: Moving forward in Open Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Abas, Zoraini Wati

2009-01-01

Many higher education institutions have embarked on e-learning as a means to support their learning and teaching activities. In distance learning institutions, e-learning has enabled them to reach out to students dispersed over a wide geographical area, locally and internationally. In some countries, e-learning has also given students the…

E-Learning and Technologies for Open Distance Learning in Management Accounting

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kashora, Trust; van der Poll, Huibrecht M.; van der Poll, John A.

2016-01-01

This research develops a knowledge acquisition and construction framework for e-learning for Management Accounting students at the University of South Africa, an Open Distance Learning institution which utilises e-learning. E-learning refers to the use of electronic applications and processes for learning, including the transfer of skills and…

The Future of Learning: From eLearning to mLearning.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Keegan, Desmond

The future of electronic learning was explored in an analysis that viewed the provision of learning at a distance as a continuum and traced the evolution from distance learning to electronic learning to mobile learning in Europe and elsewhere. Special attention was paid to the following topics: (1) the impact of the industrial revolution, the…

New Definitions for New Higher Education Institutions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Meyer, Katrina A.

2009-01-01

New terms were exploding early in the development of distance learning and virtual universities. Distance learning, online learning, e-learning, and distributed learning were applied to the various new forms of learning using online or Web-based materials and processes. However, largely thanks to the immediate popularity of the Western Governors'…

Case-based explanation of non-case-based learning methods.

PubMed Central

Caruana, R.; Kangarloo, H.; Dionisio, J. D.; Sinha, U.; Johnson, D.

1999-01-01

We show how to generate case-based explanations for non-case-based learning methods such as artificial neural nets or decision trees. The method uses the trained model (e.g., the neural net or the decision tree) as a distance metric to determine which cases in the training set are most similar to the case that needs to be explained. This approach is well suited to medical domains, where it is important to understand predictions made by complex machine learning models, and where training and clinical practice makes users adept at case interpretation. PMID:10566351

Integrating E-Learning into the Workplace.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Harun, Mohd Hishamuddin

2001-01-01

Discussion of electronic learning and knowledge management in the workplace focuses on learning and training in the medical and health care setting in Malaysia. Highlights include learning and the knowledge economy; just-in-time continuing medical education; distance education; and modular distance learning. (Author/LRW)

Koopman Operator Framework for Time Series Modeling and Analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Surana, Amit

2018-01-01

We propose an interdisciplinary framework for time series classification, forecasting, and anomaly detection by combining concepts from Koopman operator theory, machine learning, and linear systems and control theory. At the core of this framework is nonlinear dynamic generative modeling of time series using the Koopman operator which is an infinite-dimensional but linear operator. Rather than working with the underlying nonlinear model, we propose two simpler linear representations or model forms based on Koopman spectral properties. We show that these model forms are invariants of the generative model and can be readily identified directly from data using techniques for computing Koopman spectral properties without requiring the explicit knowledge of the generative model. We also introduce different notions of distances on the space of such model forms which is essential for model comparison/clustering. We employ the space of Koopman model forms equipped with distance in conjunction with classical machine learning techniques to develop a framework for automatic feature generation for time series classification. The forecasting/anomaly detection framework is based on using Koopman model forms along with classical linear systems and control approaches. We demonstrate the proposed framework for human activity classification, and for time series forecasting/anomaly detection in power grid application.

New Model, New Strategies: Instructional Design for Building Online Wisdom Communities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gunawardena, Charlotte N.; Ortegano-Layne, Ludmila; Carabajal, Kayleigh; Frechette, Casey; Lindemann, Ken; Jennings, Barbara

2006-01-01

We discuss the development of an instructional design model, WisCom (Wisdom Communities), based on socio-constructivist and sociocultural learning philosophies and distance education principles for the development of online wisdom communities, and the application and evaluation of the model in an online graduate course in the USA. The WisCom model…

Teleassessment: A Model for Team Developmental Assessment of High-Risk Infants Using a Televideo Network.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, Douglas L.

1997-01-01

Describes a model for team developmental assessment of high-risk infants using a fiber-optic "distance learning" televideo network in south-central New York. An arena style transdisciplinary play-based assessment model was adapted for use across the televideo connection and close simulation of convention assessment procedures was…

Online Professional Development: Combining Best Practices from Teacher, Technology and Distance Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Signer, Barbara

2008-01-01

This article provides a model of online professional development that is consistent with recommendations from the fields of teacher education, technology staff development and online learning. A graduate mathematics education course designed and implemented using the model is presented to exemplify the model's core components and interactions. The…

The effectiveness of using WebCT in distance learning programmes in MACE, the University of Manchester

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmad, Rosman

The World Wide Web impacted the educational model and became part of distance education early in this century. There were many changes taking place in higher education for political, economic and educational reasons." New goals and educational objectives were being set within educational institutions. There were particular emphases to produce a more effective delivery of learning methods for distance learning students. The use of Internet was seen as an important issue in the development of an understanding of the complex process of instilling knowledge to post graduates students. Well-established universities were re-examining their missions and looking for different ways of providing lifelong education. The School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering (MACE) was particularly keen to increase the use of web-based learning in its courses, which will increase the amount of students enrolled into these programmes and help them learn in a flexible and workable manner. This approach was reinforced by responses from a survey of MSc. degree students which suggested that the current distance learning programme were not being operated efficiently and did not develop adequate personal skills in relation to the requirements of prospective employers. One way of improving these programmes was to make use of the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). A study was made and WebCT was found to be suitable. Five WebCT units were initially produced. The experience of designing and running the units was very useful in determining the effective use of the WebCT. From the analysis of students and staff surveys it has been demonstrated that these WebCT units are much more effective in achieving the project objectives in a wide number of areas which relate to students satisfaction, skills development and enhancing their interest into learning experience. The success of the WebCT units has stimulated interest in overseas establishments. It is hope that the success will follow in the author's home country, Malaysia.

Improving Distance Courses: Understanding Teacher Trainees and Their Learning Styles for the Design of Teacher Training Courses and Materials at a Distance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dzakiria, Hisham; Razak, Asmahan Abdul; Mohamed, Abdul Halim

2004-01-01

Literature on distance education and teacher education seems to show that what we do not know about Distance Teacher Trainees (DTT) and their learning process involved exceeds what we know about it. As more DTT enroll in distance education programmes globally, distance education providers and institutions will witness trainees coming with…

A Comparative Analysis of the Academic Performance of Distance and On-Campus Learners

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Magagula, C. M.; Ngwenya, A. P.

2004-01-01

This study examined (1) the profile of the distance and on-campus learners, (2) the academic performance of distance and on-campus learners, (3) the advantages and disadvantages of learning through distance education and on-campus education, and (4) how the disadvantages of learning through distance education could be reduced. The study found that…

Learning across Distance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cowan, Kristina

2009-01-01

A 2008 report, "Keeping Pace with K-12 Online Learning," commissioned by North American Council for Online Learning (NACOL) and others, defines online learning as "teacher-led education that takes place over the Internet, with the teacher and student separated geographically." The term "distance learning" includes online education, but is…

Social Web Content Enhancement in a Distance Learning Environment: Intelligent Metadata Generation for Resources

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

García-Floriano, Andrés; Ferreira-Santiago, Angel; Yáñez-Márquez, Cornelio; Camacho-Nieto, Oscar; Aldape-Pérez, Mario; Villuendas-Rey, Yenny

2017-01-01

Social networking potentially offers improved distance learning environments by enabling the exchange of resources between learners. The existence of properly classified content results in an enhanced distance learning experience in which appropriate materials can be retrieved efficiently; however, for this to happen, metadata needs to be present.…

Distance Learning and the Health Professions: A Synthesis Report of the Literature Investigating Continuing Professional Health Education at a Distance.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Curran, Vernon; Noseworthy, Tanya

This synthesis report provides an extensive overview of literature evaluating use and effectiveness of distance learning technologies in delivering continuing education (CE) for health professionals. Chapter 2 discusses advantages and disadvantages of correspondence materials, explores suggestions for improving print-based learning materials, and…

Distance Learning Courses on the Web: The Authoring Approach.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Santos, Neide; Diaz, Alicia; Bibbo, Luis Mariano

This paper proposes a framework for supporting the authoring process of distance learning courses. An overview of distance learning courses and the World Wide Web is presented. The proposed framework is then described, including: (1) components of the framework--a hypermedia design methodology for authoring the course, links to related Web sites,…

A Study of Distance Learning Technology in Utah: A Statewide Overview.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chow, Stanley H. L.; And Others

This report was commissioned by the Utah State Office of Education (USOE) to provide USOE with information about the potential applications of distance learning technology in schools. The study includes: (1) a statewide assessment of instructional, staff development, and administrative needs which may be met by distance learning technology; and…

Distance Learning 2000: Proceedings of the Annual Conference on Distance Teaching & Learning (16th, Madison, Wisconsin, August 2-4, 2000).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wisconsin Univ. System, Madison.

These proceedings contain 75 papers from information sessions that address important human factors in distance education from several perspectives, including implementation planning, management and policy, instructional design, teaching methods, faculty development, learning environments, learner supports, and evaluation. Among the papers are:…

Characteristics and Activities of Teachers on Distance Learning Programs That Affect Their Ratings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stanišic Stojic, Svetlana M.; Dobrijevic, Gordana; Stanišic, Nemanja; Stanic, Nenad

2014-01-01

This paper presents an analysis of teachers' ratings on distance learning undergraduate study programs: 7,156 students enrolled in traditional and 528 students enrolled in distance learning studies took part in the evaluation questionnaire, assessing 71 teachers. The data were collected from the Moodle platform and from the Singidunum University…

Distance Education in the United States: From Correspondence Courses to the Internet

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Caruth, Gail D.; Caruth, Donald L.

2013-01-01

Online learning is a descendant of distance education. Online education has a shared history with correspondence learning. In 1873, Anna Eliot Ticknor founded the Society to Encourage Studies at Home. Ticknor's Society established one of America's first correspondence schools, a distance learning option conducted through the mail. This Society was…

Incorporating Distance Learning into Counselor Education Programs: A Research Study.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wantz, Richard A.; Tromski, Donna M.; Mortsolf, Christina Joelle; Yoxtheimer, Greggory; Brill, Samantha; Cole, Alison

The purpose of this study is to determine the number of counselor education programs that utilize distance learning, to identify the distance learning software delivery products used, and to identify features of software used. The researchers also attempt to identify faculty perceptions related to and experience with the importance of distance…

Bibliometric and Social Network Analysis of Doctoral Research: Research Trends in Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Skinner, Jason Kirtland

2015-01-01

The study investigated research topics of doctoral dissertations that examined issues in distance learning from 2000-2014. Twelve reviews of research on distance learning, spanning from 1997-2015, were identified. It was found that only one of these reviews of research (Davies, Howell, & Petri, 2010) looked at doctoral dissertations. The…

The Open College of the North West, Distance Learning, and the "Open Tech" Programme.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Percy, Keith; Saunders, Murray

1982-01-01

A regional program of pre-university courses in northwestern England open to adults with no entry qualifications is discussed. It uses some distance learning techniques but is investigating expansion to technical education through distance learning. The complexities and potential costs of such a substantial directional change are examined. (MSE)

Effectiveness of Asynchronous Reference Services for Distance Learning Students within Florida's Community College System

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Profeta, Patricia C.

2007-01-01

The provision of equitable library services to distance learning students emerged as a critical area during the 1990s. Library services available to distance learning students included digital reference and instructional services, remote access to online research tools, database and research tutorials, interlibrary loan, and document delivery.…

NASA Langley/CNU Distance Learning Programs.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Caton, Randall; Pinelli, Thomas E.

NASA Langley Research Center and Christopher Newport University (CNU) provide, free to the public, distance learning programs that focus on math, science, and/or technology over a spectrum of education levels from K-adult. The effort started in 1997, and currently there are a suite of five distance-learning programs. This paper presents the major…

New-to-College "Academic Transformation" Distance Learning: A Paradox

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goomas, David T.; Clayton, Alexis

2013-01-01

At an urban Dallas community college, first-time-in-college (FTIC) distance learning students enrolled in a three-credit academic transformation class were compared with FTIC students enrolled in the same course in on-campus classes. The distance-learning students were more at risk as measured by final semester grades and retention compared to…

Distance-Learning Programs. Case Studies in TESOL Practice Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Henrichsen, Lynn E., Ed.

The 14 cases in this book show how distance learning takes a variety of forms in teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL). The 15 chapters include the following: (1) "Beyond Adding Telecommunications to a Traditional Course: Insights into Human and Instructional Factors Affecting Distance Learning in TESOL" (Lynn E.…

Adding Interactivity to Web Based Distance Learning.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cafolla, Ralph; Knee, Richard

Web Based Distance Learning (WBDL) is a form of distance learning based on providing instruction mainly on the World Wide Web. This paradigm has limitations, especially the lack of interactivity inherent in the Web. The purpose of this paper is to discuss some of the technologies the authors have used in their courses at Florida Atlantic…

Student Support Gaps in an Open Distance Learning Context

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Arko-Achemfuor, Akwasi

2017-01-01

Studying through distance education can be problematic for any student, but it can be worse for rural students for diverse reasons. To ensure that students studying through the open distance learning (ODL) system have an enduring learning experience, ODL builds student support as one of its components. The University of South Africa (Unisa)…

The Effects of Videoconferenced Distance-Learning Instruction in a Taiwanese Company

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lin, Chin-Hung; Yang, Shu-Ching

2011-01-01

Distance learning, where instruction is given to students despite wide separations of students and teachers, is increasingly popular. Videoconferencing, which is examined in this study, is a distance learning mode of featuring real-time interaction of students and teachers and provides sequence, real-time, vision, and actual interaction. This…

Assessment of Readiness to Participate in Distance Learning of the Certified Florida Behavioral Workforce

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baston, George R.

2011-01-01

This research study explored perceptions of readiness to participate in distance learning among the certified behavioral workforce in Florida. The study sought to determine if there were significant differences in perception of readiness to participate in distance learning between certified behavioral health professionals at the administrator…

Distance Learning and Jihad: The Dark Side of the Force

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bates, Rodger; Mooney, Mara

2014-01-01

The ability to reach a variety of audiences in diverse environments has made distance learning a major form of education and training in the 21st century. Though traditionally encountered in the educational and business communities, distance learning has proven an important resource for a variety of other constituencies. Terrorist groups have…

Factors Affecting Corporate Image from the Perspective of Distance Learning Students in Public Higher Education Institutions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

da Costa, Fábio Reis; Pelissari, Anderson Soncini

2016-01-01

New information technologies enable different interactions in the educational environment, affecting how the image of educational institutions adopting distance-learning programmes is perceived. This article identifies factors affecting the perception of corporate image from the viewpoint of distance-learning students at public higher education…

Distance Learning for Gifted Students: Outcomes for Elementary, Middle, and High School Aged Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wallace, Patricia

2009-01-01

Although distance learning often is cited as a potentially useful strategy to provide appropriately challenging academic coursework to gifted students, little research has been conducted on its use or effectiveness with this population, particularly with younger students in elementary school. In this study, distance learning outcomes for gifted…

Access and Success in Learning: Technologies for Scaling Up Open and Distance Learning Programme in the Institute of Distance Learning, KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Essel, Rebecca; Owusu-Boateng, William

2011-01-01

ODL (Open and Distance Learning) has come to stay. In recent years, there has been some extra-ordinary increasing international interest in it and Ghana is no exception. Currently, new ways of providing education are inevitable and ODL provides an effective alternate way. It represents approaches that focus on opening access to education and…

A regularized approach for geodesic-based semisupervised multimanifold learning.

PubMed

Fan, Mingyu; Zhang, Xiaoqin; Lin, Zhouchen; Zhang, Zhongfei; Bao, Hujun

2014-05-01

Geodesic distance, as an essential measurement for data dissimilarity, has been successfully used in manifold learning. However, most geodesic distance-based manifold learning algorithms have two limitations when applied to classification: 1) class information is rarely used in computing the geodesic distances between data points on manifolds and 2) little attention has been paid to building an explicit dimension reduction mapping for extracting the discriminative information hidden in the geodesic distances. In this paper, we regard geodesic distance as a kind of kernel, which maps data from linearly inseparable space to linear separable distance space. In doing this, a new semisupervised manifold learning algorithm, namely regularized geodesic feature learning algorithm, is proposed. The method consists of three techniques: a semisupervised graph construction method, replacement of original data points with feature vectors which are built by geodesic distances, and a new semisupervised dimension reduction method for feature vectors. Experiments on the MNIST, USPS handwritten digit data sets, MIT CBCL face versus nonface data set, and an intelligent traffic data set show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.

Pattern classification and recognition of invertebrate functional groups using self-organizing neural networks.

PubMed

Zhang, WenJun

2007-07-01

Self-organizing neural networks can be used to mimic non-linear systems. The main objective of this study is to make pattern classification and recognition on sampling information using two self-organizing neural network models. Invertebrate functional groups sampled in the irrigated rice field were classified and recognized using one-dimensional self-organizing map and self-organizing competitive learning neural networks. Comparisons between neural network models, distance (similarity) measures, and number of neurons were conducted. The results showed that self-organizing map and self-organizing competitive learning neural network models were effective in pattern classification and recognition of sampling information. Overall the performance of one-dimensional self-organizing map neural network was better than self-organizing competitive learning neural network. The number of neurons could determine the number of classes in the classification. Different neural network models with various distance (similarity) measures yielded similar classifications. Some differences, dependent upon the specific network structure, would be found. The pattern of an unrecognized functional group was recognized with the self-organizing neural network. A relative consistent classification indicated that the following invertebrate functional groups, terrestrial blood sucker; terrestrial flyer; tourist (nonpredatory species with no known functional role other than as prey in ecosystem); gall former; collector (gather, deposit feeder); predator and parasitoid; leaf miner; idiobiont (acarine ectoparasitoid), were classified into the same group, and the following invertebrate functional groups, external plant feeder; terrestrial crawler, walker, jumper or hunter; neustonic (water surface) swimmer (semi-aquatic), were classified into another group. It was concluded that reliable conclusions could be drawn from comparisons of different neural network models that use different distance (similarity) measures. Results with the larger consistency will be more reliable.

College Students Attitudes toward Learning Process and Outcome of Online Instruction and Distance Learning across Learning Styles

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nguyen, Dat-Dao; Zhang, Yue

2011-01-01

This study uses the Learning-Style Inventory--LSI (Smith & Kolb, 1985) to explore to what extent student attitudes toward learning process and outcome of online instruction and Distance Learning are affected by their cognitive styles and learning behaviors. It finds that there are not much statistically significant differences in perceptions…

Designing, delivering and evaluating a distance learning nursing course responsive to students needs.

PubMed

Sowan, Azizeh K; Jenkins, Louise S

2013-06-01

The majority of available studies in distance learning in nursing and health lack the sufficient details of course design and delivery processes which greatly affect the learning outcomes. Also, little is available about the fairness of this method of education to students with limited access to course resources. We describe the design and delivery processes and experience, in terms of satisfaction and achievement, of undergraduate nursing students in a distance course. The difference in achievement between the distance students and a comparable cohort of hybrid students is also examined. We also demonstrate the possibility of providing accessible education to students with limited technological resources. Participants included all undergraduate nursing students who were enrolled in a distance and a hybrid section of a communication skills course offered at a School of Nursing in Jordan. The distance course was created using Blackboard and Tegrity learning management systems. The design and delivery processes of the distance course incorporated three pedagogical principles that enhance: (a) course access and navigation; (b) communication and interaction; and (c) active and collaborative learning experiences. After course completion, distance students completed a 27-item satisfaction questionnaire. Achievement in the course and correlates of satisfaction were measured. The final sample included 25 students in the distance section and 35 in the hybrid section (N=60). The mean score of overall satisfaction in the distance section was 4.14 (0.32) out of a 5-point scale, indicating a high satisfaction. Results revealed significant associations between total satisfaction score and achievement in the distance course, grade expected in the course, and frequency of accessing the course materials (p<.05). All distance students, including students with limited technological resources available at home, managed to successfully complete the course. Major concerns reported by distance students were related to lack of time management skills and negative attitudes toward group assignments. The mean final course grade of the distance section (80±8.2) was significantly higher than the hybrid section (72.2±9.5), (t=3.5, p<.05). The use of effective instructional strategies resulted in delivering successful distance learning, even for students with limited resources. Institutions have to make strategic decisions on how to optimize the use of technology to fit their individualized learning environments. Instructors need to become familiar with the characteristics of students cohort served by the course and design the course accordingly. In addition, students should be guided on how to manage their time in distance learning environments and work effectively in group assignments. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

An Assistive Computerized Learning Environment for Distance Learning Students with Learning Disabilities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Klemes, Joel; Epstein, Alit; Zuker, Michal; Grinberg, Nira; Ilovitch, Tamar

2006-01-01

The current study examines how a computerized learning environment assists students with learning disabilities (LD) enrolled in a distance learning course at the Open University of Israel. The technology provides computer display of the text, synchronized with auditory output and accompanied by additional computerized study skill tools which…

Measuring the Accuracy of Simple Evolving Connectionist System with Varying Distance Formulas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Al-Khowarizmi; Sitompul, O. S.; Suherman; Nababan, E. B.

2017-12-01

Simple Evolving Connectionist System (SECoS) is a minimal implementation of Evolving Connectionist Systems (ECoS) in artificial neural networks. The three-layer network architecture of the SECoS could be built based on the given input. In this study, the activation value for the SECoS learning process, which is commonly calculated using normalized Hamming distance, is also calculated using normalized Manhattan distance and normalized Euclidean distance in order to compare the smallest error value and best learning rate obtained. The accuracy of measurement resulted by the three distance formulas are calculated using mean absolute percentage error. In the training phase with several parameters, such as sensitivity threshold, error threshold, first learning rate, and second learning rate, it was found that normalized Euclidean distance is more accurate than both normalized Hamming distance and normalized Manhattan distance. In the case of beta fibrinogen gene -455 G/A polymorphism patients used as training data, the highest mean absolute percentage error value is obtained with normalized Manhattan distance compared to normalized Euclidean distance and normalized Hamming distance. However, the differences are very small that it can be concluded that the three distance formulas used in SECoS do not have a significant effect on the accuracy of the training results.

Numerical-Technological Skills and Work Experience in the Perceived Usefulness in an Accounting Virtual Learning Environment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Herrador-Alcaide, Teresa Carmen; Hernández-Solís, Montserrat

2017-01-01

The purpose of this study was to analyse the perceived usefulness of a set of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) applied in a virtual learning environment (VLE) in a distance education model. We analysed whether the numerical and technological preferences of the students could explain the perceived usefulness related to the ICT…

The Effect of Communication Strategy and Planning Intervention on the Processes and Performance of Course Material Development Teams

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Padmo Putri, Dewi A.

2012-01-01

In most open and distance learning institutions, the development of learning materials, whether in print or electronic form, is created by teams consisting of people with different skills. Team communication has a critical influence on the development of team shared mental models (SMMs) as well as team performance. A review of the literature…

Distance Education and Open Learning in Sub-Saharan Africa: Criteria and Conditions for Quality and Critical Success Factor-- Working Group on Distance Education and Open Learning. A Survey of Policy and Practice. Final Report

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Commonwealth of Learning, 2004

2004-01-01

Both of these "Surveys of policy and practice" were conducted on behalf of COL by the South African Institute for Distance Education (SAIDE) as part of COL's partnership agreement with the Association for the Development of Education in Africa (ADEA) Working Group on Distance Education and Open Learning. The first report identifies…

Cue-specific effects of categorization training on the relative weighting of acoustic cues to consonant voicing in English

PubMed Central

Francis, Alexander L.; Kaganovich, Natalya; Driscoll-Huber, Courtney

2008-01-01

In English, voiced and voiceless syllable-initial stop consonants differ in both fundamental frequency at the onset of voicing (onset F0) and voice onset time (VOT). Although both correlates, alone, can cue the voicing contrast, listeners weight VOT more heavily when both are available. Such differential weighting may arise from differences in the perceptual distance between voicing categories along the VOT versus onset F0 dimensions, or it may arise from a bias to pay more attention to VOT than to onset F0. The present experiment examines listeners’ use of these two cues when classifying stimuli in which perceptual distance was artificially equated along the two dimensions. Listeners were also trained to categorize stimuli based on one cue at the expense of another. Equating perceptual distance eliminated the expected bias toward VOT before training, but successfully learning to base decisions more on VOT and less on onset F0 was easier than vice versa. Perceptual distance along both dimensions increased for both groups after training, but only VOT-trained listeners showed a decrease in Garner interference. Results lend qualified support to an attentional model of phonetic learning in which learning involves strategic redeployment of selective attention across integral acoustic cues. PMID:18681610

Quality Assurance, Open and Distance Learning, and Australian Universities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Reid, Ian C.

2005-01-01

Open and distance education has integrated quality assurance processes since its inception. Recently, the increased use of distance teaching systems, technologies, and pedagogies by universities without a distance education heritage has enabled them to provide flexible learning opportunities. They have done this in addition to, or instead of,…

Quality Assurance in Distance Learning Libraries

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tripathi, Manorama; Jeevan, V. K. J.

2009-01-01

Purpose: The paper aims to study how the present distance learning libraries can improve upon their existing services and introduce new ones to enhance quality of services to distance learners. Design/methodology/approach: The paper includes a review of literature on quality assurance in open and distance education in general and student support…

Distance Education and Distributed Learning. Current Perspectives on Applied Information Technologies.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vrasidas, Charalambos, Ed.; Glass, Gene V., Ed.

This book describes the current state of developments in distance education and distributed learning. The volume brings together some of the leading contemporary contributors in the areas of educational technology and distance education. Topics covered include research and evaluation in distance education, online communities, faculty productivity,…

Strategic Plan for the Academic Component of the Army National Guard Distance Learning Demonstration.

DTIC Science & Technology

1998-07-01

II - Directed study on Distance Learning Technologies - Action Memorandum. a reserve unit where they perform the same job as they did as full-time...a virtual learning community and provide a classroom without walls. The harnessing of appropriate technology to meet the training needs offers...its force through training, the Distance Learning capabilities also becomes part of community resources that advance the education of local residents

Why do people move? Enhancing human mobility prediction using local functions based on public records and SNS data.

PubMed

Kim, Jungmin; Park, Juyong; Lee, Wonjae

2018-01-01

The quality of life for people in urban regions can be improved by predicting urban human mobility and adjusting urban planning accordingly. In this study, we compared several possible variables to verify whether a gravity model (a human mobility prediction model borrowed from Newtonian mechanics) worked as well in inner-city regions as it did in intra-city regions. We reviewed the resident population, the number of employees, and the number of SNS posts as variables for generating mass values for an urban traffic gravity model. We also compared the straight-line distance, travel distance, and the impact of time as possible distance values. We defined the functions of urban regions on the basis of public records and SNS data to reflect the diverse social factors in urban regions. In this process, we conducted a dimension reduction method for the public record data and used a machine learning-based clustering algorithm for the SNS data. In doing so, we found that functional distance could be defined as the Euclidean distance between social function vectors in urban regions. Finally, we examined whether the functional distance was a variable that had a significant impact on urban human mobility.

Burnout Syndrome in Students of a Distance Learning Program: The Open University of Cyprus Experience

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pavlakis, Andreas; Kaitelidou, Dafni

2012-01-01

Introduction: Distance learning seems to have a crucial impact on the social and emotional life of students. Within the framework of distance learning at the Open University of Cyprus, the "Healthcare Management" department conducted a study regarding the levels of stress, anxiety and depression reported by the student population. The…

From Radio, to Satellite, to M-Learning: Interactive Distance Education in Australia

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Crump, Stephen

2013-01-01

This paper provides reflections on M-learning as a form of "distance education," based on a summary of the findings of the Interactive Distance e-Learning (IDL) research project in rural and remote Australia under an Australian Research Council Linkage grant. This project was a joint undertaking between 3 government agencies and an…

Distance Learning Course Design Expectations in China and the United Kingdom

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Xu, Jingjing; Rees, Terri

2016-01-01

This article provides insight into different expectations between Chinese and British academic culture for distance learning. The article is based on a pedagogic research project, a case study, and is centered on a distance learning course in maritime law proposed by a British university for a university in China. Some important commonalities and…

The Development of a Survey Instrument to Measure Transactional Distance in Secondary Blended Learning Environments

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lane, Dennis Glenn

2017-01-01

The goal of this study was to develop a survey instrument to measure transactional distance in secondary blended learning environments. This study resulted in a 35-item survey instrument, the Blended Learning Assessment Scale of Transactional Distance (BLASTD), which was tested using a convenience sample of secondary students (n = 222) at a…

Automated Inattention and Fatigue Detection System in Distance Education for Elementary School Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hwang, Kuo-An; Yang, Chia-Hao

2009-01-01

Most courses based on distance learning focus on the cognitive domain of learning. Because students are sometimes inattentive or tired, they may neglect the attention goal of learning. This study proposes an auto-detection and reinforcement mechanism for the distance-education system based on the reinforcement teaching strategy. If a student is…

Distance Training: How Innovative Organizations Are Using Technology To Maximize Learning and Meet Business Objectives. Jossey-Bass Business and Management Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schreiber, Deborah A.; Berge, Zane L.

This book contains 19 papers examining ways in which innovative organizations are using distance learning technology to maximize learning and meet business objectives. The following papers are included: "Preface" (Deborah A. Schreiber, Zane L. Berge); "Organizational Technology and Its Impact on Distance Training" (Deborah A.…

What Is the Role of Distance Learning in the State University System? Information Brief. Volume 6, Issue 2

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Florida Board of Governors, State University System, 2008

2008-01-01

Distance learning is the term used when the delivery of instruction involves the separation of student(s) and the instructor by time and/or space. Some forms of distance learning include correspondence, telecourses, online instruction, computer assisted instruction, and instructional delivery that relies upon satellite, cable, broadcast (TV or…

The Resonance Factor: Probing the Impact of Video on Student Retention in Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Geri, Nitza

2012-01-01

Teaching and instructing is one of the challenging manifestations of informing, within which distance learning is considered harder than face-to-face instruction. Student retention is one of the major challenges of distance learning. Current innovative technologies enable widespread use of video lectures that may ease the loneliness of the…

Perspectives on Distance Education and Social Media

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Powers, Lisa; Alhussain, Ruqaya; Averbeck, Clemens; Warner, Andre

2012-01-01

There is a dramatic shift in the tools that are used in today's technology-based distance education. While distance education is not new, there are new types of socially rich, mobile technologies that empower learners to be more in control of what they learn, when they learn it, and how they learn it. Students are taking more responsibility for…

A Framework for Developing Competencies in Open and Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Arinto, Patricia B.

2013-01-01

Many open universities and distance education institutions have shifted from a predominantly print-based mode of delivery to an online mode characterised by the use of virtual learning environments and various web technologies. This paper describes the impact of the shift to open and distance e-learning (ODeL), as this trend might be called, on…

Transactional Distance among Open University Students: How Does it Affect the Learning Process?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kassandrinou, Amanda; Angelaki, Christina; Mavroidis, Ilias

2014-01-01

This study examines the presence of transactional distance among students, the factors affecting it, as well as the way it influences the learning process of students in a blended distance learning setting in Greece. The present study involved 12 postgraduate students of the Hellenic Open University (HOU). A qualitative research was conducted,…

Survey on Uses of Distance Learning in the U.S.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Downing, Diane E.

A December 1983 survey queried the chief state school officers of the 50 states on the extent to which distance learning techniques are used in public education in their states. Respondents were asked to focus on interactive forms of distance learning, such as audio and video teleconferencing. A total of 28 states (56%) responded, with the…

Cross-Sectional Evaluation of Distance Education Students' Learning Styles and Critical Thinking Dispositions in Turkey

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yüksel, Ismail; Türkses, Ercüment

2015-01-01

This study aims to examine distance education students' learning styles and critical thinking dispositions. This cross sectional survey was conducted on 114 Turkish distance education students from various departments in a state university. The data of the study were collected through Grasha-Riechmann Student Learning Style Scale (GRSLSS) and…

China's Radio and TV Universities: Reflections on Theory and Practice of Open and Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wei, Runfang

2010-01-01

Distance education and open learning are western innovations, representing the educational concepts, cultures and societies of western countries. The introduction of distance education and the adoption of open learning in China's radio and TV universities are by no means an indication that they will and can be copied wholesale. Open and distance…

High School Students in the New Learning Environment: A Profile of Distance E-Learners

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kirby, Dale; Sharpe, Dennis

2010-01-01

The relative ubiquity of computer access and the rapid development of information and communication technology have profoundly impacted teaching and learning at a distance. Relatively little is currently known about the characteristics of those students who participate in distance e-learning courses at the secondary school level. In an effort to…

Attitudes and Perceptions of Students to Open and Distance Learning in Nigeria

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ojo, David Olugbenga; Olakulehin, Felix Kayode

2006-01-01

In the West African Region of Africa, the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) is the first full fledged university that operates in an exclusively open and distance learning (ODL) mode of education. NOUN focuses mainly on open and distance teaching and learning system, and delivers its courses materials via print in conjunction with…

An Analysis of the Market Potential for Distance Learning Opportunities in Transportation Professional Development.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Durkop, Brooke R.; Jasek, Debbie; Kuhn, Beverly T.

The feasibility and sustainability of a distance learning program at the Texas Transportation Institute, which is part of the Texas A&M University system, was investigated. A literature review and online survey of current transportation professionals were conducted to examine the market potential for a distance learning program and to identify…

Curriculum Integration in Distance Learning at Primary and Secondary Educational Levels on the Example of eTwinning Projects

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gajek, Elzbieta

2018-01-01

Curriculum integration is one of the concepts which has been discussed for years. Telecollaborative projects, which employ elements of distance learning, provide opportunities for putting the idea into practice. Analysis of eTwinning projects undertaken in Polish schools aims at demonstrating the integrative role of distance learning approaches…

Survey of Distance Learning Provision in Continuing Health Professional Education in Canada

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Curran, Vernon; Kirby, Fran; Fleet, Lisa

2003-01-01

In Canada, the trend is towards greater use of distance learning technologies in the provision of continuing professional education in the health professions. Lack of access to professional development is a common deterrent to practice in rural and remote areas. Distance learning technologies have an important role to play in addressing the…

Analysis of Risks in a Learning Management System: A Case Study in the Spanish National University of Distance Education (UNED)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vázquez-Cano, Esteban; Sevillano García, Ma. Luisa

2015-01-01

This article presents a research that examines the university students' risk perception when using a Learning Management System called "aLF" and implemented by the Spanish National University of Distance Education (UNED) for the development of its university distance studies. The development of comprehensive Learning Management Systems…

Television and Learning Systems (Distance Education). Papers on Information Technology No. 245.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bates, A. W.

Arguing that television has a very important role to play in distance education courses, this paper outlines some of the unique roles that television can play and gives examples of how television can provide learning material not otherwise available to distance learners and help in the development of thinking and learning. Examples of how…

A Flow Theory Perspective on Learner Motivation and Behavior in Distance Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liao, Li-Fen

2006-01-01

Motivating learners to continue to study and enjoy learning is one of the critical factors in distance education. Flow theory is a useful framework for studying the individual experience of learning through using computers. In this study, I examine students' emotional and cognitive responses to distance learning systems by constructing two models…

Science Practical Work Instructional Technologies and Open Distance Learning in Science Teacher Training: A Case Study in Zimbabwe

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bhukuvhani, Crispen; Mupa, Mathew; Mhishi, Misheck; Dziva, Daimond

2012-01-01

The practical work component offers unique challenges for university science courses. This is even more pertinent in an Open and Distance Learning (ODL) environment like the Bindura University of Science Education's Virtual and Open Distance Learning (VODL) programme. Effective ODL education should be flexible enough to accommodate science…

Empirical Investigation into Motives for Choosing Web-Based Distance Learning Programs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Alkhattabi, Mona

2016-01-01

Today, in association with rapid social and economic changes, there is an increasing level of demand for distance and online learning programs. This study will focus on identifying the main motivational factors for choosing a web-based distance-learning program. Moreover, it will investigate how these factors relate to age, gender, marital status…

Modelling Method of Recursive Entity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Amal, Rifai; Messoussi, Rochdi

2012-01-01

With the development of the Information and Communication Technologies, great masses of information are published in the Web. In order to reuse, to share and to organise them in distance formation and e-learning frameworks, several research projects have been achieved and various standards and modelling languages developed. In our previous…

Going the Distance: A National Distance Learning Initiative.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dubois, Jaques R.

1996-01-01

Going the Distance is a Public Broadcasting Service project through which over 130 colleges and universities are offering telecourses for adults seeking associate degrees. It is the beginning of a global learning community. (SK)

Study of basic computer competence among public health nurses in Taiwan.

PubMed

Yang, Kuei-Feng; Yu, Shu; Lin, Ming-Sheng; Hsu, Chia-Ling

2004-03-01

Rapid advances in information technology and media have made distance learning on the Internet possible. This new model of learning allows greater efficiency and flexibility in knowledge acquisition. Since basic computer competence is a prerequisite for this new learning model, this study was conducted to examine the basic computer competence of public health nurses in Taiwan and explore factors influencing computer competence. A national cross-sectional randomized study was conducted with 329 public health nurses. A questionnaire was used to collect data and was delivered by mail. Results indicate that basic computer competence of public health nurses in Taiwan is still needs to be improved (mean = 57.57 +- 2.83, total score range from 26-130). Among the five most frequently used software programs, nurses were most knowledgeable about Word and least knowledgeable about PowerPoint. Stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed eight variables (weekly number of hours spent online at home, weekly amount of time spent online at work, weekly frequency of computer use at work, previous computer training, computer at workplace and Internet access, job position, education level, and age) that significantly influenced computer competence, which accounted for 39.0 % of the variance. In conclusion, greater computer competence, broader educational programs regarding computer technology, and a greater emphasis on computers at work are necessary to increase the usefulness of distance learning via the Internet in Taiwan. Building a user-friendly environment is important in developing this new media model of learning for the future.

Tele-education as method of medical education.

PubMed

Masic, Izet; Pandza, Haris; Kulasin, Igor; Masic, Zlatan; Valjevac, Salih

2009-01-01

Development of computer networks and introduction and application of new technologies in all aspects of human activity needs to be followed by universities in their transformation on how to approach scientific, research, and education teaching curricula. Development and increased use of distance learning (DL) over the past decade have clearly shown the potential and efficiency of information technology applied in education. Use of information technology in medical education is where medical informatics takes its place as important scientific discipline which ensures benefit from IT in teaching and learning process involved. Definition of telemedicine as "use of technologies based on health care delivered on distance" covers areas such as electronic health, tele-health (eHealth), telematics, but also tele-education. Web based medical education today is offered in different forms--from online lectures, online exams, web based continuous education programs, use of electronic libraries, online medical and scientific databases etc. Department of Medical Informatics of Medical Faculty of University of Sarajevo has taken many steps to introduce distance learning in medical curricula--from organising professional--scientific events (congresses, workshop etc), organizing first tele-exam at the faculty and among first at the university, to offering online lectures and online education material at the Department's website (www.unsa-medinfo.org). Distance learning in medical education, as well as telemedicine, significantly influence health care in general and are shaping the future model of medical practice. Basic computer and networks skills must be a part of all future medical curricula. The impact of technical equipment on patient-doctor relationship must be taken into account, and doctors have to be trained and prepared for diagnosing or consulting patients by use of IT. Telemedicine requires special approach in certain medical fields--tele-consultation, tele-surgery, tele-radiology and other specific telemedicine applications should be introduced to the curricula. Telemedicine and distance learning are best suited for medical education and doctor-to-doctor consultation--first contact between doctor and a patient should stay face-to-face when possible. In this paper, we present the results of the project Introduction and Implementation of Distance Learning at the Medical Faculty of University of Sarajevo and compare it with the following expected outcomes: development and integration of information technology in medical education; creation of flexible infrastructure which will enable access to e-learning to all students and teaching staff; improvement of digital literacy of academic population; ensuring high educational standards to students and teaching staff; helping medical staffto develop "life-long learning" approach in work and education.

OtagoNet: One Region's Model for Virtual Schooling

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pratt, Keryn; Pullar, Ken

2013-01-01

Virtual schools are increasingly common in New Zealand and internationally as schools are challenged to meet the needs of their students. This article presents a description of the distance-learning model used by a group of schools in rural Otago for the last decade. The leadership team and roles are described, and the funding model, which is…

A New Distance Metric for Unsupervised Learning of Categorical Data.

PubMed

Jia, Hong; Cheung, Yiu-Ming; Liu, Jiming

2016-05-01

Distance metric is the basis of many learning algorithms, and its effectiveness usually has a significant influence on the learning results. In general, measuring distance for numerical data is a tractable task, but it could be a nontrivial problem for categorical data sets. This paper, therefore, presents a new distance metric for categorical data based on the characteristics of categorical values. In particular, the distance between two values from one attribute measured by this metric is determined by both the frequency probabilities of these two values and the values of other attributes that have high interdependence with the calculated one. Dynamic attribute weight is further designed to adjust the contribution of each attribute-distance to the distance between the whole data objects. Promising experimental results on different real data sets have shown the effectiveness of the proposed distance metric.

Local CD-ROM in interaction with HTML documents over the Internet.

PubMed

Mattheos, N; Nattestad, A; Attström, R

2000-08-01

The internet and computer assisted learning have enhanced the possibilities of providing quality distance learning in dentistry. The use of multimedia material is an essential part of such distance learning courses. However the Internet technology available has limitations regarding transmission of large multimedia files. Therefore especially when addressing undergraduate students or geographically isolated professionals, large download times make distance learning unattractive. This problem was technically solved in a distance learning course for undergraduate students from all over Europe. The present communication describes a method to bypass the problem of transmitting large multimedia files by the use of a specially designed CD-ROM. This CD-ROM was run locally on the students' PC interacting with HTML documents sent over the Internet.

Distance Learning as a Tool for Poverty Reduction and Economic Development: A Focus on China and Mexico

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Larson, Richard C.; Murray, M. Elizabeth

2008-04-01

This paper uses case studies to focus on distance learning in developing countries as an enabler for economic development and poverty reduction. To provide perspective, we first review the history of telecottages, local technology-equipped facilities to foster community-based learning, which have evolved into "telecenters" or "Community Learning Centers" (CLCs). Second, we describe extensive site visits to CLCs in impoverished portions of China and Mexico, the centers operated by premier universities in each respective country. These CLCs constitute the core of new emerging systems of distance education, and their newness poses challenges and opportunities, which are discussed. Finally, we offer 12 points to develop further the concept and reality of distance learning in support of economic development.

E-Learning and North-South collaboration: the experience of two public health schools in France and Benin.

PubMed

Edouard, Guévart; Dominique, Billot; Moussiliou, Paraïso Noël; Francis, Guillemin; Khaled, Bessaoud; Serge, Briançon

2009-10-14

Distance learning (e-learning) can facilitate access to training. Yet few public health E-learning experiments have been reported; institutes in developing countries experience difficulties in establishing on-line curricula, while developed countries struggle with adapting existing curricula to realities on the ground. In 2005, two schools of public health, one in France and one in Benin, began collaborating through contact sessions organised for Nancy University distance-learning students. This experience gave rise to a partnership aimed at developing training materials for e-Learning for African students. The distance-learning public health course at Nancy teaches public health professionals through a module entitled "Health and Development." The module is specifically tailored for professionals from developing countries. To promote student-teacher exchanges, clarify content and supervise dissertations, contact sessions are organized in centres proximate and accessible to African students. The Benin Institute's main feature is residential team learning; distance-learning courses are currently being prepared. The two collaborating institutions have developed a joint distance-learning module geared toward developing countries. The collaboration provides for the development, diffusion, and joint delivery of teaching modules featuring issues that are familiar to African staff, gives the French Institute credibility in assessing research work produced, and enables modules on specific African issues and approaches to be put online. While E-learning is a viable educational option for public health professionals, periodic contact can be advantageous. Our analysis showed that the benefit of the collaboration between the two institutions is mutual; the French Institute extends its geographical, cultural and contextual reach and expands its pool of teaching staff. The Benin Institute benefits from the technical partnership and expertise, which allow it to offer distance learning for Africa-specific contexts and applications.

Lifelong Learning & Distance Higher Education. Perspectives on Distance Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McIntosh, Christopher, Ed.

2005-01-01

Reflecting a common objective of ensuring quality Education for All, this book is a joint initiative of UNESCO and COL and jointly published. Lifelong Learning in Distance Higher Education brings together a diverse group of experts from many countries. The book provides a clear picture of the challenges, problems and potential of distance higher…

Use of Distance Education by Christian Religion to Train, Edify and Educate Adherents

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Satyanarayana, P.; DK Meduri, Emmanuel

2013-01-01

Distance Education has been growing fast, in a marvelously diverse fashion. The efficiency, effectiveness, validity and utility of distance teaching-learning are on increase. All communities and religious groups are making use of distance learning methodology to upgrade their knowledge, skills and attitudes. Christian educational institutions in…

The Knowledge Base as an Extension of Distance Learning Reference Service

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Casey, Anne Marie

2012-01-01

This study explores knowledge bases as extension of reference services for distance learners. Through a survey and follow-up interviews with distance learning librarians, this paper discusses their interest in creating and maintaining a knowledge base as a resource for reference services to distance learners. It also investigates their perceptions…

Analysis of higher education policy frameworks for open and distance education in Pakistan.

PubMed

Ellahi, Abida; Zaka, Bilal

2015-04-01

The constant rise in demand for higher education has become the biggest challenge for educational planners. This high demand has paved a way for distance education across the globe. This article innovatively analyzes the policy documentation of a major distance education initiative in Pakistan for validity that will identify the utility of policy linkages. The study adopted a qualitative research design that consisted of two steps. In the first step, a content analysis of distance learning policy framework was made. For this purpose, two documents were accessed titled "Framework for Launching Distance Learning Programs in HEIs of Pakistan" and "Guideline on Quality of Distance Education for External Students at the HEIs of Pakistan." In the second step, the policy guidelines mentioned in these two documents were evaluated at two levels. At the first level, the overall policy documents were assessed against a criterion proposed by Cheung, Mirzaei, and Leeder. At the second level, the proposed program of distance learning was assessed against a criterion set by Gellman-Danley and Fetzner and Berge. The distance education program initiative in Pakistan is of promising nature which needs to be assessed regularly. This study has made an initial attempt to assess the policy document against a criterion identified from literature. The analysis shows that the current policy documents do offer some strengths at this initial level, however, they cannot be considered a comprehensive policy guide. The inclusion or correction of missing or vague areas identified in this study would make this policy guideline document a treasured tool for Higher Education Commission (HEC). For distance education policy makers, this distance education policy framework model recognizes several fundamental areas with which they should be concerned. The findings of this study in the light of two different policy framework measures highlight certain opportunities that can help strengthening the distance education policies. The criteria and findings are useful for the reviewers of policy proposals to identify the gaps where policy documents can be improved to bring the desired outcomes. © The Author(s) 2015.

Implications of the University of South Africa's (UNISA) Shift to Open Distance e-Learning on Teacher Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ngubane-Mokiwa, Sindile A.

2017-01-01

This conceptual and exploratory article seeks to explore the implications of the University of South Africa's (Unisa) shift from open distance learning (ODL) to open distance e-learning (ODeL) on Teacher Education. In addition, the article problematizes the shift as a policy imperative. Unisa's mandate to provide teacher education opportunities to…

An Evolution of Distance Learning Issues: From Exporting to Enhancing the Classroom Experience

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Johnstone, Sally M.

2004-01-01

There are many different formats being used for distance learning and each has implications for institutional and public policies. With almost 90% of U.S. public colleges and universities offering distance learning courses, it is important for all members of the academy to be aware of these implications as they consider their own involvement in…

Increasing Access to Higher Education through Open and Distance Learning: Empirical Findings from Mzuzu University, Malawi

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chawinga, Winner Dominic; Zozie, Paxton Andrew

2016-01-01

Slowly but surely, open and distance learning (ODL) programmes are being regarded as one of the most practical ways that universities across the world are increasingly adopting in order to increase access to university education. Likewise, Mzuzu University (MZUNI) set up the Centre for Open and Distance Learning (CODL) to oversee the running of…

The Place of Multiple Intelligence in Achieving the Objectives and Goals of Open and Distance Learning Institutions: A Critical Analysis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ojo, Olugbenga David; Olakulehin, Felix Kayode

2006-01-01

This paper examined the nature of open and distance learning institutions as organizations where synergy of efforts of all personnel is required in order to achieve the aims and objectives of the institution. It explored the huge infrastructural and personnel requirements of distance learning institutions, especially at inception, and the…

Building Capacity for Open and Distance Learning (ODL) in West Africa Sub-Region: The Pivotal Role of RETRIDAL

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Amini, Clifford; Oluyide, Oluwaseun

2016-01-01

The paper posits the Regional Training and Research Institute for Distance and Open Learning (RETRIDAL) as an institution established for the purpose of enhancing Open and Distance Learning in the West African sub-region. The institute has pursued this mandate with an unparalleled vigour since its establishment in 2003--a partnership of the…

Quality Assurance in Open and Distance Learning. Knowledge Series. A Topical, Start-Up Guide to Distance Education Practice and Delivery

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kirkpatrick, Denise

2005-01-01

Assuring the quality of education provision is a fundamental aspect of gaining and maintaining credibility for programmes, institutions and national systems of higher education worldwide. Despite a long and generally successful track record, open and distance learning (ODL) is still required to prove that the quality of student learning is at…

Factors Affecting Student Success in Distance Learning Courses at a Local California Community College: Joint Governance Perspectives

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gonzalez, Luis A.

2012-01-01

The purpose of this study was to explore the perspectives of staff and faculty regarding factors affecting student success in distance learning at a California community college (CCC). Participants were members of the leadership group known as the distance learning committee. Data were collected through in-depth interviews using open-ended…

A boosting framework for visuality-preserving distance metric learning and its application to medical image retrieval.

PubMed

Yang, Liu; Jin, Rong; Mummert, Lily; Sukthankar, Rahul; Goode, Adam; Zheng, Bin; Hoi, Steven C H; Satyanarayanan, Mahadev

2010-01-01

Similarity measurement is a critical component in content-based image retrieval systems, and learning a good distance metric can significantly improve retrieval performance. However, despite extensive study, there are several major shortcomings with the existing approaches for distance metric learning that can significantly affect their application to medical image retrieval. In particular, "similarity" can mean very different things in image retrieval: resemblance in visual appearance (e.g., two images that look like one another) or similarity in semantic annotation (e.g., two images of tumors that look quite different yet are both malignant). Current approaches for distance metric learning typically address only one goal without consideration of the other. This is problematic for medical image retrieval where the goal is to assist doctors in decision making. In these applications, given a query image, the goal is to retrieve similar images from a reference library whose semantic annotations could provide the medical professional with greater insight into the possible interpretations of the query image. If the system were to retrieve images that did not look like the query, then users would be less likely to trust the system; on the other hand, retrieving images that appear superficially similar to the query but are semantically unrelated is undesirable because that could lead users toward an incorrect diagnosis. Hence, learning a distance metric that preserves both visual resemblance and semantic similarity is important. We emphasize that, although our study is focused on medical image retrieval, the problem addressed in this work is critical to many image retrieval systems. We present a boosting framework for distance metric learning that aims to preserve both visual and semantic similarities. The boosting framework first learns a binary representation using side information, in the form of labeled pairs, and then computes the distance as a weighted Hamming distance using the learned binary representation. A boosting algorithm is presented to efficiently learn the distance function. We evaluate the proposed algorithm on a mammographic image reference library with an Interactive Search-Assisted Decision Support (ISADS) system and on the medical image data set from ImageCLEF. Our results show that the boosting framework compares favorably to state-of-the-art approaches for distance metric learning in retrieval accuracy, with much lower computational cost. Additional evaluation with the COREL collection shows that our algorithm works well for regular image data sets.

Expanding Learning Opportunities for High School Students with Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Beese, Jane

2014-01-01

The purpose of the Synchronous Interactive Video Conference Distance Learning pilot program was to use emerging technologies to expand learning opportunities for students at an urban public high school. Through grant funding, students were able to enroll in Advanced Placement and foreign language courses through an online learning provider. Using…

New Learning Design in Distance Education: The Impact on Student Perception and Motivation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Martens, Rob; Bastiaens, Theo; Kirschner, Paul A.

2007-01-01

Many forms of e-learning (such as online courses with authentic tasks and computer-supported collaborative learning) have become important in distance education. Very often, such e-learning courses or tasks are set up following constructivist design principles. Often, this leads to learning environments with authentic problems in ill-structured…

Increased Technology Provision and Learning: Giving More for Nothing?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Quillerou, Emmanuelle

2011-01-01

The development of new communication technologies has led to a push for greater technology use for teaching and learning. This is most true for distance learning education, which relies heavily on new technologies. Distance learning students, however, seem to have very limited time available for studying and learning because of work and/or family…

Determinants of Student Satisfaction in Online Tutorial: A Study of A Distance Education Institution

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Harsasi, Meirani; Sutawijaya, Adrian

2018-01-01

Education system nowadays tends to utilize online learning, including in higher education. Online learning system becomes a major requirement in implementing learning process, including in Indonesia. Universitas Terbuka has implemented online learning system known as online tutorials to support the distance learning system. One interesting issue…

Enhancing Online Teaching and Learning from Students' Perspectives

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Edwards, Francisca

2014-01-01

The vast growth of technology has brought about new ways of learning. Distance learning has evolved over the years and, due to the growth of the Internet, has presented itself to be a growing phenomenon. Distance learning changed the way educational institutes and organizations train, learn, and do research. Past studies have shown academia's…

A position paper of the EFLM Committee on Education and Training and Working Group on Distance Education Programmes/E-Learning: developing an e-learning platform for the education of stakeholders in laboratory medicine.

PubMed

Gruson, Damien; Faure, Gilbert; Gouget, Bernard; Haliassos, Alexandre; Kisikuchin, Darya; Reguengo, Henrique; Topic, Elizabeta; Blaton, Victor

2013-04-01

The progress of information and communication technologies has strongly influenced changes in healthcare and laboratory medicine. E-learning, the learning or teaching through electronic means, contributes to the effective knowledge translation in medicine and healthcare, which is an essential element of a modern healthcare system and for the improvement of patient care. E-learning also represents a great vector for the transfer knowledge into laboratory practice, stimulate multidisciplinary interactions, enhance continuing professional development and promote laboratory medicine. The European Federation of Laboratory Medicine (EFLM) has initiated a distance learning program and the development of a collaborative network for e-learning. The EFLM dedicated working group encourages the organization of distance education programs and e-learning courses as well as critically evaluate information from courses, lectures and documents including electronic learning tools. The objectives of the present paper are to provide some specifications for distance learning and be compatible with laboratory medicine practices.

A Comparative Study of Classroom and Online Distance Modes of Official Vocational Education and Training

PubMed Central

López Soblechero, Miguel Vicente; González Gaya, Cristina; Hernández Ramírez, Juan José

2014-01-01

The study discussed in this paper had two principal objectives. The first was to evaluate the distance model of official vocational education and training offered by means of a virtual learning platform. The second was to establish that both on-site classroom and online distance modes of vocational education and training can be seen as complementary in terms of responding to the majority of modern educational needs. We performed a comparative study using data and results gathered over the course of eleven academic years for 1,133 of our students enrolled in an official vocational education and training program, leading to the awarding of a certificate as an Administrative Management Expert. The classes were offered by the Alfonso de Avellaneda Vocational Education and Training School, located in the city of Alcalá de Henares near Madrid, Spain. We offered classes both in traditional classroom mode and through online distance learning. This paper begins with a descriptive analysis of the variables we studied; inferential statistical techniques are subsequently applied in order to study the relationships that help form the basis for the conclusions reached. This study’s results provide evidence that a broad offering of vocational education and training opportunities will facilitate access to such learning for students who require it, regardless of their age, employment status, or personal circumstances, with the online distance mode playing a fundamental role while also yielding results equivalent to those observed for classroom instruction. PMID:24788543

A comparative study of classroom and online distance modes of official vocational education and training.

PubMed

López Soblechero, Miguel Vicente; González Gaya, Cristina; Hernández Ramírez, Juan José

2014-01-01

The study discussed in this paper had two principal objectives. The first was to evaluate the distance model of official vocational education and training offered by means of a virtual learning platform. The second was to establish that both on-site classroom and online distance modes of vocational education and training can be seen as complementary in terms of responding to the majority of modern educational needs. We performed a comparative study using data and results gathered over the course of eleven academic years for 1,133 of our students enrolled in an official vocational education and training program, leading to the awarding of a certificate as an Administrative Management Expert. The classes were offered by the Alfonso de Avellaneda Vocational Education and Training School, located in the city of Alcalá de Henares near Madrid, Spain. We offered classes both in traditional classroom mode and through online distance learning. This paper begins with a descriptive analysis of the variables we studied; inferential statistical techniques are subsequently applied in order to study the relationships that help form the basis for the conclusions reached. This study's results provide evidence that a broad offering of vocational education and training opportunities will facilitate access to such learning for students who require it, regardless of their age, employment status, or personal circumstances, with the online distance mode playing a fundamental role while also yielding results equivalent to those observed for classroom instruction.

E-Learning as an Opportunity for the Public Administration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Casagranda, Milena; Colazzo, Luigi; Molinari, Andrea; Tomasini, Sara

In this paper we will describe the results of a learning project in the Public Administration, highlighting the methodological approach based on a blended training model in a context that has never experienced this type of activities. The observations contained in the paper will be focused on the evaluation results of this experience and the redesign elements in term of alternation between the classroom and distance training, methodologies, the value and use of the e-learning platform and learning evaluation. The elements that emerge will also provide the basis for the design of future teaching actions for this context (in which at this moment we are involved). The objective is to identify a "learning model", related also to the use of technological tools that are able to support lifelong learning and to define dynamics and process relating to facilitating learning activities of teachers and tutors.

Quality evaluation on an e-learning system in continuing professional education of nurses.

PubMed

Lin, I-Chun; Chien, Yu-Mei; Chang, I-Chiu

2006-01-01

Maintaining high quality in Web-based learning is a powerful means of increasing the overall efficiency and effectiveness of distance learning. Many studies have evaluated Web-based learning but seldom evaluate from the information systems (IS) perspective. This study applied the famous IS Success model in measuring the quality of a Web-based learning system using a Web-based questionnaire for data collection. One hundred and fifty four nurses participated in the survey. Based on confirmatory factor analysis, the variables of the research model fit for measuring the quality of a Web-based learning system. As Web-based education continues to grow worldwide, the results of this study may assist the system adopter (hospital executives), the learner (nurses), and the system designers in making reasonable and informed judgments with regard to the quality of Web-based learning system in continuing professional education.

Adventure Learning: Transformative Hybrid Online Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Doering, Aaron

2006-01-01

Adventure learning (AL) is a hybrid distance education approach that provides students with opportunities to explore real-world issues through authentic learning experiences within collaborative learning environments. This article defines this online distance education approach, outlines an AL framework, and showcases an AL archetype. In AL…

In a year, memory will benefit from learning, tomorrow it won't: distance and construal level effects on the basis of metamemory judgments.

PubMed

Halamish, Vered; Nussinson, Ravit; Ben-Ari, Liat

2013-09-01

Metamemory judgments may rely on 2 bases of information: subjective experience and abstract theories about memory. On the basis of construal level theory, we predicted that psychological distance and construal level (i.e., concrete vs. abstract thinking) would have a qualitative impact on the relative reliance on these 2 bases: When considering learning from proximity or under a low-construal mindset, learners would rely more heavily on their experience, whereas when considering learning from a distance or under a high-construal mindset, they would rely more heavily on their abstract theories. Consistent with this prediction, results of 2 experiments revealed that temporal distance (Experiment 1) and construal level (Experiment 2) affected the stability bias--the failure to predict the benefits of learning. When considering learning from proximity or using a low-construal mindset, participants relied less heavily on their theory regarding the benefits of learning and were therefore insensitive to future learning. However, when considering learning from temporal distance or using a high-construal mindset, participants relied more heavily on their theory and were therefore better able to predict the benefits of future learning, thus overcoming the stability bias. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2013 APA, all rights reserved.

Distance Learning Can Be as Effective as Traditional Learning for Medical Students in the Initial Assessment of Trauma Patients.

PubMed

Farahmand, Shervin; Jalili, Ebrahim; Arbab, Mona; Sedaghat, Mojtaba; Shirazi, Mandana; Keshmiri, Fatemeh; Azizpour, Arsalan; Valadkhani, Somayeh; Bagheri-Hariri, Shahram

2016-09-01

Distance learning is expanding and replacing the traditional academic medical settings. Managing trauma patients seems to be a prerequisite skill for medical students. This study has been done to evaluate the efficiency of distance learning on performing the initial assessment and management in trauma patients, compared with the traditional learning among senior medical students. One hundred and twenty senior medical students enrolled in this single-blind quasi-experimental study and were equally divided into the experimental (distance learning) and control group (traditional learning). All participants did a written MCQ before the study. The control group attended a workshop with a 50-minute lecture on initial management of trauma patients and a case simulation scenario followed by a hands-on session. On the other hand, the experimental group was given a DVD with a similar 50-minute lecture and a case simulation scenario, and they also attended a hands-on session to practice the skills. Both groups were evaluated by a trauma station in an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) after a month. The performance in the experimental group was statistically better (P=0.001) in OSCE. Distance learning seems to be an appropriate adjunct to traditional learning.

Blended Learning Implementation in “Guru Pembelajar” Program

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mahdan, D.; Kamaludin, M.; Wendi, H. F.; Simanjuntak, M. V.

2018-02-01

The rapid development of information and communication technology (ICT), especially the internet, computers and communication devices requires the innovation in learning; one of which is Blended Learning. The concept of Blended Learning is the mixing of face-to-face learning models by learning online. Blended learning used in the learner teacher program organized by the Indonesian department of education and culture that a program to improve the competence of teachers, called “Guru Pembelajar” (GP). Blended learning model is perfect for learning for teachers, due to limited distance and time because online learning can be done anywhere and anytime. but the problems that arise from the implementation of this activity are many teachers who do not follow the activities because teachers, especially the elderly do not want to follow the activities because they cannot use computers and the internet, applications that are difficult to understand by participants, unstable internet connection in the area where the teacher lives and facilities and infrastructure are not adequate.

A Hybrid Approach to Develop an Analytical Model for Enhancing the Service Quality of E-Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wu, Hung-Yi; Lin, Hsin-Yu

2012-01-01

The digital content industry is flourishing as a result of the rapid development of technology and the widespread use of computer networks. As has been reported, the market size of the global e-learning (i.e., distance education and telelearning) will reach USD 49.6 billion in 2014. However, to retain and/or increase the market share associated…

Attention Recognition in EEG-Based Affective Learning Research Using CFS+KNN Algorithm.

PubMed

Hu, Bin; Li, Xiaowei; Sun, Shuting; Ratcliffe, Martyn

2018-01-01

The research detailed in this paper focuses on the processing of Electroencephalography (EEG) data to identify attention during the learning process. The identification of affect using our procedures is integrated into a simulated distance learning system that provides feedback to the user with respect to attention and concentration. The authors propose a classification procedure that combines correlation-based feature selection (CFS) and a k-nearest-neighbor (KNN) data mining algorithm. To evaluate the CFS+KNN algorithm, it was test against CFS+C4.5 algorithm and other classification algorithms. The classification performance was measured 10 times with different 3-fold cross validation data. The data was derived from 10 subjects while they were attempting to learn material in a simulated distance learning environment. A self-assessment model of self-report was used with a single valence to evaluate attention on 3 levels (high, neutral, low). It was found that CFS+KNN had a much better performance, giving the highest correct classification rate (CCR) of % for the valence dimension divided into three classes.

Self-Learning through Programmed Learning in Distance Mode.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rao, D. Prakasa; Reddy, B. Sudhakar

2002-01-01

Presents the characteristics and development of self-learning material (SLM) in distance education. Discusses teaching with programmed learning; structure of SLM; and how SLM helps in self-study. Discusses the advantages of print materials as accompanying programmed instruction, because they are portable, well-structured, compact, and easily…

Cooperative Learning in Distance Learning: A Mixed Methods Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kupczynski, Lori; Mundy, Marie Anne; Goswami, Jaya; Meling, Vanessa

2012-01-01

Distance learning has facilitated innovative means to include Cooperative Learning (CL) in virtual settings. This study, conducted at a Hispanic-Serving Institution, compared the effectiveness of online CL strategies in discussion forums with traditional online forums. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected from 56 graduate student…

A Question of Questions.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fenwick, John; McMillan, Rod

In a conventional teaching situation, a lecturer may use a wide range of questioning techniques aimed at helping students to become active learners. In distance learning, students are often isolated and have limited opportunities for interaction in a social learning environment. Hence, learning strategies in distance learning need to be structured…

Combining Feminist Pedagogy and Transactional Distance to Create Gender-Sensitive Technology-Enhanced Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Herman, Clem; Kirkup, Gill

2017-01-01

In this paper, we argue for a new synthesis of two pedagogic theories: feminist pedagogy and transactional distance, which explain why and how distance education has been such a positive system for women in a national distance learning university. We illustrate this with examples of positive action initiatives for women. The concept of…

Going the Distance: Are There Common Factors in High Performance Distance Learning? Research Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hawksley, Rosemary; Owen, Jane

Common factors among high-performing distance learning (DL) programs were examined through case studies at 9 further education colleges and 2 nonsector organizations in the United Kingdom and a backup survey of a sample of 50 distance learners at 5 of the colleges. The study methodology incorporated numerous principles of process benchmarking. The…

Assessment of the Effectiveness of Internet-Based Distance Learning through the VClass e-Education Platform

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pukkaew, Chadchadaporn

2013-01-01

This study assesses the effectiveness of internet-based distance learning (IBDL) through the VClass live e-education platform. The research examines (1) the effectiveness of IBDL for regular and distance students and (2) the distance students' experience of VClass in the IBDL course entitled Computer Programming 1. The study employed the common…

Distance Teaching of Environmental Engineering Courses at the Open University.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Porteous, Andrew; Nesaratnam, Suresh T.; Anderson, Judith

1997-01-01

Describes two integrated distance learning environmental engineering degree courses offered by the environmental engineering group of the Open University in Great Britain. Discusses admission requirements for courses, advantages offered by distance learning, professional accreditation, site visits, and tutors. (AIM)

Embracing Change: Adapting and Evolving Your Distance Learning Library Services to Meet the New ACRL Distance Learning Library Services Standards

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Marcum, Brad

2016-01-01

This article examines the update and revision of the current Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) Distance Learning Standards that has been proposed and submitted to the ACRL Standards Committee. An in-depth analysis of the update is included, along with some comparisons between the old and new. Practical advice detailing…

Open and Distance Learning: Case Studies from Industry and Education. Open and Distance Learning Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brown, Stephen C., Ed.

This book contains 14 case studies, written by those involved in the teaching and training initiatives, that illustrate the use of open and distance learning strategies. The case studies, drawn from many parts of the world (but mostly British based), feature efforts in large and small companies in a variety of industries. The first part of the…

The Relationship between Academic Integration and Student Success in Distance Learning in the Kentucky Community and Technical College System

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Johnson, Robert White

2009-01-01

This dissertation is a study of factors that contribute to dropout from distance learning classes in the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS). It is divided into five chapters. Chapter One gives a history of distance learning through in KCTCS. It includes the background of the study, statement of the problem, purpose of the…

Exploring Distance Learning Experiences of In-Service Music Teachers from Puerto Rico in a Master's Program

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vega-Martinez, Juan Carlos

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of in-service music teachers who chose to pursue a master's degree in music education through distance learning. In this study, I examined the motivations of in-service music teachers for choosing to pursue a master's degree in music education through distance learning; the benefits teachers…

The Development of Online Tutorial Program Design Using Problem-Based Learning in Open Distance Learning System

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Said, Asnah; Syarif, Edy

2016-01-01

This research aimed to evaluate of online tutorial program design by applying problem-based learning Research Methods currently implemented in the system of Open Distance Learning (ODL). The students must take a Research Methods course to prepare themselves for academic writing projects. Problem-based learning basically emphasizes the process of…

Language Learning Strategies Used by Distance Learners of English: A Study with a Group of Turkish Distance Learners of EFL

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Altunay, Dilek

2014-01-01

Use of language learning strategies is important for language learning. Some researchers state that language learning strategies are important because their use affects the development of communicative competence (Lessard-Clouston, 1997 & Oxford, 1990). Effective use of language learning strategies has particular importance for distance…

[Distance learning using internet in the field of bioengineering].

PubMed

Ciobanu, O

2003-01-01

The Leonardo da Vinci training programme supports innovative transnational initiatives for promoting the knowledge, aptitudes and skills necessary for successful integration into working life. Biomedical engineering is an emerging interdisciplinary field that contributes to understand, define and solve problems in biomedical technology within industrial and health service contexts. Paper presents a Leonardo da Vinci pilot-project called Web-based learning and training in the field of biomedical and design engineering (WEBD). This project has started on 2001. The WEBD project proposes to use advanced learning technologies to provide education in the www. Project uses interactive 3D graphics and virtual reality tools. The WEBD distance training permits users to experience and interact with a life-like model or environment, in safety and at convenient times, while providing a degree of control over the simulation that is usually not possible in the real-life situation.

Determining if Instructional Delivery Model Differences Exist in Remedial English

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carter, LaTanya Woods

2012-01-01

The purpose of this causal comparative study is to test the theory of no significant difference that compares pre- and post-test assessment scores, controlling for the instructional delivery model of online and face-to-face students at a Mid-Atlantic university. Online education and virtual distance learning programs have increased in popularity…

A Cognitive Developmental Approach to Question Asking: A Learning Cycle-Distancing Model.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sigel, Irving E.; Kelley, Todd D.

The role of questioning techniques in the classroom is discussed, with particular emphasis on the cyclical nature of teacher-student dialogues. Excerpts from transcripts of actual dialogues are also analyzed. According to the model, based on Piaget's theory of cognitive development, the questioning strategies are designed to enhance the student's…

Comparing Distance vs. Campus-Based Delivery of Research Methods Courses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Girod, Mark; Wojcikiewicz, Steve

2009-01-01

A causal-comparative pre-test, post-test design was used to investigate differences in learning in a research methods course for face-to-face and web-based delivery models. Analyses of participant achievement (N = 205) revealed almost no differences but post-hoc analyses revealed important differences in pedagogy between delivery models despite…

Internationally-Educated Health Professionals: A Distance Education Multiple Cultures Model

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lum, Lillie

2006-01-01

Purpose: This paper aims to explore issues that must be addressed in post-secondary educational planning and delivery such that social cultural factors within the learning environment are recognized in ways that affirm the learner's cultural traditions. Design/methodology/approach: The adoption of a multiple cultures model of instructional design…

Bridging the Learning Gap: Cross-Cultural Learning and Teaching through Distance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mullings, Delores V.

2015-01-01

This project engaged students, practitioners, and educators from University of Labor and Social Affairs, Cau Giay District, Hanoi and Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, in a cross-cultural distance learning and teaching collaboration. Two groups met simultaneously through Skype videoconferencing to discuss and learn about field supervision and…

The Effect of Professor's Attractiveness on Distance Learning Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liu, Jeanny; Tomasi, Stella D.

2015-01-01

Technology enabled learning is becoming more popular and pervasive in education. While the effectiveness of distance learning versus traditional classroom education is strongly debated, human factors such as students' perception of their professors can influence their desire to learn. This research examines the perceptual effect of attractive…

Online Collaborative Learning in Health Care Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Westbrook, Catherine

2012-01-01

At our University, the Faculty of Health, Social Care and Education has delivered a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate courses via flexible distance learning for many years. Distance learning can be a lonely experience for students who may feel isolated and unsupported. However e-learning provides an opportunity to use technology to…

Mobile Learning: From Single Project Status into the Mainstream?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zawacki-Richter, Olaf; Brown, Tom; Delport, Rhena

2009-01-01

During recent years, many distance teaching as well as residential institutions have started to experiment with mobile learning through pilot projects as part of their e-learning and technology enhanced learning environments. The practical experience gained with the employment of strategies and approaches within distance education can assist with…

A "Virtual Fieldtrip": Service Learning in Distance Education Technical Writing Courses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Soria, Krista M.; Weiner, Brad

2013-01-01

This mixed-methods experimental study examined the effect of service learning in a distance education technical writing course. Quantitative analysis of data found evidence for a positive relationship between participation in service learning and technical writing learning outcomes. Additionally, qualitative analysis suggests that service learning…

Exploring Moodle Functionality for Managing Open Distance Learning E-Assessments

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Koneru, Indira

2017-01-01

Current and emerging technologies enable Open Distance Learning (ODL) institutions integrate e-Learning in innovative ways and add value to the existing teaching-learning and assessment processes. ODL e-Assessment systems have evolved from Computer Assisted/Aided Assessment (CAA) systems through intelligent assessment and feedback systems.…

[Distance learning in postgraduate training of professionals. Example of occupational medicine specialization].

PubMed

Marcinkiewicz, Andrzej; Cybart, Adam; Chromińska-Szosland, Dorota

2002-01-01

The rapid development of science, technology, economy and the society has one along with the wide recognition of lifelong education and learning society concepts. Scientific centres worldwide conduct research how the access to the information and multimedia technology could bring about positive changes in our lives including improvement in education and the learning environment. Mankind development in conformity with social progress and sustainable development faces a new educational concept of learning society and open education in the information age, supported with multimedia and data processing technology. Constrains in resources availability for broadening the access to education had led to search for alternative, more time and cost-effective systems of education. One of them is distance learning, applied with success in many countries. The benefits of distance learning are well proven and can be extended to occupational medicine. Major advantages include: the integration of studies with work experience, flexibility, allowing studies to be matched to work requirements, perceived work and leisure timing, continuity of career progression. Likewise is in Poland this form of education becomes more and more popular. The distance education systems have been seen as an investment in human resource development. The vast variety of courses and educational stages makes possible the modern method of knowledge to be easily accessible. Experience of the School of Public Health in Łódź in distance learning had shown remarkable benefits of the method with comparable quality of intramural and distance learning in respect of the knowledge and experience gained by students.

Online or on Campus: A Student Tertiary Education Cost Model Comparing the Two, with a Quality Proviso

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ioakimidis, Marilou

2007-01-01

This paper presents the development and validation of a two-level hierarchical cost model for tertiary education, which enables prospective students to compare the total cost of attending a traditional Baccalaureate degree education with that of the same programme taken through distance e-learning. The model was validated by a sample of Greek…

Multi-instance multi-label distance metric learning for genome-wide protein function prediction.

PubMed

Xu, Yonghui; Min, Huaqing; Song, Hengjie; Wu, Qingyao

2016-08-01

Multi-instance multi-label (MIML) learning has been proven to be effective for the genome-wide protein function prediction problems where each training example is associated with not only multiple instances but also multiple class labels. To find an appropriate MIML learning method for genome-wide protein function prediction, many studies in the literature attempted to optimize objective functions in which dissimilarity between instances is measured using the Euclidean distance. But in many real applications, Euclidean distance may be unable to capture the intrinsic similarity/dissimilarity in feature space and label space. Unlike other previous approaches, in this paper, we propose to learn a multi-instance multi-label distance metric learning framework (MIMLDML) for genome-wide protein function prediction. Specifically, we learn a Mahalanobis distance to preserve and utilize the intrinsic geometric information of both feature space and label space for MIML learning. In addition, we try to deal with the sparsely labeled data by giving weight to the labeled data. Extensive experiments on seven real-world organisms covering the biological three-domain system (i.e., archaea, bacteria, and eukaryote; Woese et al., 1990) show that the MIMLDML algorithm is superior to most state-of-the-art MIML learning algorithms. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Benefits, barriers, and intentions/desires of nurses related to distance learning in rural island communities.

PubMed

Kataoka-Yahiro, Merle R; Richardson, Karol; Mobley, Joseph

2011-03-01

This study assessed distance learning needs among nurses on the Neighbor Islands in Hawaii. An exploratory study was conducted using a descriptive qualitative design. Of the 37 nurses who completed the study, 7 were nurse administrators and 30 were staff nurses. There were 18 focus groups of nurses recruited from six public hospitals on the Neighbor Islands. Three major themes related to distance learning emerged in this study: benefits, barriers, and intentions/desires. Each major theme had several linkages to categories and subcategories. Overall findings were as follows: (1) cost was mentioned more often in three major thematic areas (benefit, barriers, and intentions/desires); (2) the need to revisit and address current curriculum approaches and practices in distance learning programs was identified; and (3) strong recommendations were made for programs and organizational support for distance learning in hospital settings. These findings have implications for nursing research, education, and practice. Copyright 2011, SLACK Incorporated.

Teaching differential diagnosis to nurse practitioner students in a distance program.

PubMed

Colella, Christine L; Beery, Theresa A

2014-08-01

An interactive case study (ICS) is a novel way to enhance the teaching of differential diagnosis to distance learning nurse practitioner students. Distance education renders the use of many teaching strategies commonly used with face-to-face students difficult, if not impossible. To meet this new pedagogical dilemma and to provide excellence in education, the ICS was developed. Kolb's theory of experiential learning supported efforts to follow the utilization of the ICS. This study sought to determine whether learning outcomes for the distance learning students were equivalent to those of on-campus students who engaged in a live-patient encounter. Accuracy of differential diagnosis lists generated by onsite and online students was compared. Equivalency testing assessed clinical, rather than only statistical, significance in data from 291 students. The ICS responses from the distance learning and onsite students differed by 4.9%, which was within the a priori equivalence estimate of 10%. Narrative data supported the findings. Copyright 2014, SLACK Incorporated.

Convergent Technologies in Distance Learning Delivery.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wheeler, Steve

1999-01-01

Describes developments in British education in distance learning technologies. Highlights include networking the rural areas; communication, community, and paradigm shifts; digital compression techniques and telematics; Web-based material delivered over the Internet; system flexibility; social support; learning support; videoconferencing; and…

Learning Design Implementation for Distance e-Learning: Blending Rapid e-Learning Techniques with Activity-Based Pedagogies to Design and Implement a Socio-Constructivist Environment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Santally, Mohammad Issack; Rajabalee, Yousra; Cooshna-Naik, Dorothy

2012-01-01

This paper discusses how modern technologies are changing the teacher-student-content relationships from the conception to the delivery of so-called "distance" education courses. The concept of Distance Education has greatly evolved in the digital era of 21st Century. With the widespread use and access to the Internet, exponential growth…

The Impact of ICT in Learning through Distance Education Programmes at Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU): Roles of ICT in Learning through Distance Education Programmes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mpofu, John; Chimhenga, Sylod; Mafa, Onias

2013-01-01

Zimbabwe Distance Open University is enrols students from both urban and rural settings. The majority of students living and working in rural areas have limited or no access to computers and electricity as a result the use of information and communication technology (ICT) in the learning process is very limited. Though government has realized the…

Meeting the Needs of Distance Learners of M.Ed Program: Bangladesh Open University Perspective

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Islam, Amirul; Ferdowsi, Sakiba

2014-01-01

This study draws on the experience of a cohort of 22 students from 09 tutorial centers enrolled in a Master of Education (M Ed) distance learning program administered by the Bangladesh Open University (BOU). It's purpose is to locate the aims and philosophies of distance learning within the experiences of actual distance learners in order to see…

Review and Content Analysis of the "International Review of Research in Open and Distance/Distributed Learning" (2000-2015)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zawacki-Richter, Olaf; Alturki, Uthman; Aldraiweesh, Ahmed

2017-01-01

This paper presents a review of distance education literature published in the "International Review of Research in Open and Distance/Distributed Learning" (IRRODL) to describe the status thereof and to identify gaps and priority areas in distance education research based on a validated classification of research areas. All articles (N =…

Developing Transactional Distance Scale and Examining Transactional Distance Perception of Blended Learning Students in Terms of Different Variables

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Horzum, Mehmet Baris

2011-01-01

The first purpose of this study was to develop valid and reliable a scale which measure the transactional distance. Besides, the second purpose of the study was to investigate whether the transactional distance perception differed according to gender, utilized component and number of logins to system, and also blended learning was useful. The…

Reliability and Validity of a Student Scale for Assessing the Quality of Internet-Based Distance Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Scanlan, Craig L.

2003-01-01

U.S. universities and colleges offering distance education courses have increased immensely since 1998, and by 2004 it was expected that distance learners will constitute about 14% of all those enrolled in degree programs. In its preliminary review of distance learning, the Institute for Higher Education Policy (1998) emphasized the need for…

Minimal Length Scale Scenarios for Quantum Gravity.

PubMed

Hossenfelder, Sabine

2013-01-01

We review the question of whether the fundamental laws of nature limit our ability to probe arbitrarily short distances. First, we examine what insights can be gained from thought experiments for probes of shortest distances, and summarize what can be learned from different approaches to a theory of quantum gravity. Then we discuss some models that have been developed to implement a minimal length scale in quantum mechanics and quantum field theory. These models have entered the literature as the generalized uncertainty principle or the modified dispersion relation, and have allowed the study of the effects of a minimal length scale in quantum mechanics, quantum electrodynamics, thermodynamics, black-hole physics and cosmology. Finally, we touch upon the question of ways to circumvent the manifestation of a minimal length scale in short-distance physics.

A Review of Benefits and Limitations of Online Learning in the Context of the Student, the Instructor, and the Tenured Faculty

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Appana, Subhashni

2008-01-01

Distance education is a formal learning activity, which occurs when students and instructors are separated by geographic distance or by time. Learning is supported by communications technology such as television, videotape, computers, e-mail, and mail. Online learning is any learning experience or environment that relies upon the Internet/World…

Pervasive, Lifestyle-Integrated Mobile Learning for Distance Learners: An Analysis and Unexpected Results from a Podcasting Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lee, Mark J. W.; Chan, Anthony

2007-01-01

This article opens with a discussion of how and why mobile learning (m-learning) is purported to be the next step in the evolution of distance education, before looking at various perspectives on what m-learning constitutes. It critically examines the degree to which "true" m-learning has been achieved, by offering pedagogical value…

Building the Capability of Non-Formal Education Teachers to Develop a Learning Society for Promoting Lifelong Education in Thailand

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sungsri, Sumalee

2018-01-01

This study aims to study Thai non-formal education teachers' perceptions of their opportunities to obtain knowledge about the learning society; identify the knowledge of non-formal education teachers need about the learning society which could be obtained through a distance learning package; and to develop and evaluate distance learning package on…

Three Generations of Distance Education Pedagogy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Anderson, Terry; Dron, Jon

2011-01-01

This paper defines and examines three generations of distance education pedagogy. Unlike earlier classifications of distance education based on the technology used, this analysis focuses on the pedagogy that defines the learning experiences encapsulated in the learning design. The three generations of cognitive-behaviourist, social constructivist,…

Face-to-Face versus Distance Learning: Psychological Consequences and Practical Implications.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kahl, Thomas N.; Cropley, Arthur J.

1986-01-01

Summarizes differences between face-to-face and distance learners at Fernuniversitat (West Germany) in terms of demographics, motivation, study conditions, and personal consequences, in order to provide some empirically derived insights into the psychological consequences of distance learning for learners. (MBR)

Why do people move? Enhancing human mobility prediction using local functions based on public records and SNS data

PubMed Central

Park, Juyong

2018-01-01

The quality of life for people in urban regions can be improved by predicting urban human mobility and adjusting urban planning accordingly. In this study, we compared several possible variables to verify whether a gravity model (a human mobility prediction model borrowed from Newtonian mechanics) worked as well in inner-city regions as it did in intra-city regions. We reviewed the resident population, the number of employees, and the number of SNS posts as variables for generating mass values for an urban traffic gravity model. We also compared the straight-line distance, travel distance, and the impact of time as possible distance values. We defined the functions of urban regions on the basis of public records and SNS data to reflect the diverse social factors in urban regions. In this process, we conducted a dimension reduction method for the public record data and used a machine learning-based clustering algorithm for the SNS data. In doing so, we found that functional distance could be defined as the Euclidean distance between social function vectors in urban regions. Finally, we examined whether the functional distance was a variable that had a significant impact on urban human mobility. PMID:29432440

NASA Langley/CNU Distance Learning Programs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Caton, Randall; Pinelli, Thomas E.

2002-01-01

NASA Langley Research Center and Christopher Newport University (CNU) provide, free to the public, distance learning programs that focus on math, science, and/or technology over a spectrum of education levels from K-adult. The effort started in 1997, and we currently have a suite of five distance-learning programs. We have around 450,000 registered educators and 12.5 million registered students in 60 countries. Partners and affiliates include the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), the Aerospace Education Coordinating Committee (AECC), the Alliance for Community Media, the National Educational Telecommunications Association, Public Broadcasting System (PBS) affiliates, the NASA Learning Technologies Channel, the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), the Council of the Great City Schools, Hampton City Public Schools, Sea World Adventure Parks, Busch Gardens, ePALS.com, and Riverdeep. Our mission is based on the "Horizon of Learning," a vision for inspiring learning across a continuum of educational experiences. The programs form a continuum of educational experiences for elementary youth through adult learners. The strategic plan for the programs will evolve to reflect evolving national educational needs, changes within NASA, and emerging system initiatives. Plans for each program component include goals, objectives, learning outcomes, and rely on sound business models. It is well documented that if technology is used properly it can be a powerful partner in education. Our programs employ both advances in information technology and in effective pedagogy to produce a broad range of materials to complement and enhance other educational efforts. Collectively, the goals of the five programs are to increase educational excellence; enhance and enrich the teaching of mathematics, science, and technology; increase scientific and technological literacy; and communicate the results of NASA discovery, exploration, innovation and research. All pre-college distance learning programs support the national mathematics, science, and technology standards; support K-12 systemic change; involve educators in their development, implementation, and evaluation; and are based on alliances and partnerships. In addition the programs seek to invoke a sense of geographic, ethnic and cultural diversity by featuring schools from all over the U.S.; schools from urban, suburban, and rural areas; public, private, and religious schools; and schools with large populations of African-American, Asian and Hispanic students.

The Relationships between Cognitive Style of Field Dependence and Learner Variables in E-Learning Instruction

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sozcu, Omer Faruk

2014-01-01

This study examines the relationships between cognitive styles of field dependent learners with their attitudes towards e-learning (distance education) and instructional behavior in e-learning instruction. The Group Embedded Figures Test (GEFT) and the attitude survey (for students' preferences) towards e-learning instruction as distance education…

Validation of a Spanish Version of the Distance Education Learning Environments Survey (DELES) in Spain

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fernández-Pascual, Maria Dolores; Ferrer-Cascales, Rosario; Reig-Ferrer, Abilio; Albaladejo-Blázquez, Natalia; Walker, Scott L.

2015-01-01

The aim of this study was to examine the validity of the Spanish version of the Distance Education Learning Environments Survey (Sp-DELES). This instrument assesses students' perceptions of virtual learning environments using six scales: Instructor Support, Student Interaction and Collaboration, Personal Relevance, Authentic Learning, Active…

The Use of Open Educational Resources in Online Learning: A Study of Students' Perception

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Harsasi, Meirani

2015-01-01

Universitas Terbuka (UT) is Indonesia's higher education institution which implements distance education system. The term distance implies that learning is not performed face-to-face but there is geographically separation between students and teacher. Therefore, UT must provide many kinds of learning modes and learning support. To facilitate…

Synchronous and Asynchronous Communication in Distance Learning: A Review of the Literature

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Watts, Lynette

2016-01-01

Distance learning is commonplace in higher education, with increasing numbers of students enjoying the flexibility e-learning provides. Keeping students connected with peers and instructors has been a challenge with e-learning, but as technology has advanced, the methods by which educators keep students engaged, synchronously and asynchronously,…

Rich Media e-Compendiums: A New Tool for Enhanced Learning in Higher Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Foss, Brynjar; Oftedal, Bjorg F.; Lokken, Atle

2013-01-01

Electronically supported learning has increasingly been introduced and accepted into the academic community over recent decades, and a variety of new digital learning tools have been developed to serve students both for distance education and on-campus blended learning. To serve our distance education nursing students, we recently developed unique…

Researching Mobile-Assisted Chinese-Character Learning Strategies among Adult Distance Learners

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Qian, Kan; Owen, Nathaniel; Bax, Stephen

2018-01-01

In the field of teaching and learning Chinese as a foreign language (CFL), most studies investigate Chinese character learning strategies in pen-and-paper study by campus-based students. With the increase in distance-learning, and expanding popularity of smartphones and tablets and widespread availability of mobile applications for language…

E-Learning in Engineering Education: Design of a Collaborative Advanced Remote Access Laboratory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chandra A. P., Jagadeesh; Samuel, R. D. Sudhaker

2010-01-01

Attaining excellence in technical education is a worthy challenge to any life goal. Distance learning opportunities make these goals easier to reach with added quality. Distance learning in engineering education is possible only through successful implementations of remote laboratories in a learning-by-doing environment. This paper presents one…

Successful Students in an Open and Distance Learning System

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Puspitasari, Kristanti Ambar; Oetoyo, Boedhi

2018-01-01

Learning in a higher education institution that applies an open and distance learning system requires the students to study as independent learners. This research is a survey research with the purpose of exploring the characteristics, habits and learning motivation of high-achiever students or those who obtained a high level of Grade Point Average…

The Relation between Distance Students' Motivation, Their Use of Learning Strategies, and Academic Success

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Radovan, Marko

2011-01-01

The aim of this study was to discover possible relationships between self-regulated learning dimensions and students' success in a distance-learning programme. The sample consisted of 319 students: 83 males and 236 females. They completed the "Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire" (Pintrich, Smith, Garcia & McKeachie,…

Seamless Support: Technology Enhanced Learning in Open Distance Learning at NWU

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Esterhuizen, Hennie

2015-01-01

Frantic attempts of investing in technology to demonstrate willingness to educate for the knowledge society may result in failure to address the real requirements. This paper presents the main features of a framework for integrating Technology Enhanced Learning in Open Distance Learning at North-West University, South Africa. Support towards…

Dialogue and Structure: Enabling Learner Self-Regulation in Technology-Enhanced Learning Environments

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Andrade, Maureen Snow

2014-01-01

Distance learning that incorporates technology-enhanced learning environments provides a solution to the ever-increasing global demand for higher education. To be successful in these contexts, learners must be self-regulated, or have the ability to control the factors affecting their learning. Based on the theories of transactional distance,…

7 CFR 1703.101 - Policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... RURAL DEVELOPMENT Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program-General § 1703.101 Policy... rural Americans. To further this objective, RUS will provide financial assistance to distance learning... educational, learning, training, and health care services. (b) In providing financial assistance, RUS will...

Distance Learning Courses and Master of Arts in Physics Education

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lindgren, Richard; Thornton, Stephen

2006-11-01

More than twenty distance learning courses in physics have been taken by hundreds of High School Physics Teachers over the past 7 years. The success of these courses helped initiate our 30 credit Master of Arts in Physics Education degree program. We have graduated 28 teachers over the last 6 years and expect 13 more to graduate in 2006. The candidates earn 14 credits in residence at the University of Virginia and 16 credits online. This allows teachers to matriculate, while earning more than half the credits at home. Presently, there are over 50 Master degree candidates. Three of the five online courses utilize CD-ROMS with edited lectures of live Physics courses taught at the University of Virginia by Physics Professors recognized for their teaching. Homework and examinations are submitted using WebAssign. Local high school teachers and administrators proctor the examinations. General communication and pedagogical feedback on homework assignments and exams are submitted through Blackboard as well as email. Screen captured video shots of physics demonstrations are widely used in the audio chat room to facilitate discussion and also used on examinations. We will discuss the changes of our distance-learning model based on what has worked (or not) and new technology.

Case Studies in CAL!

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rogers, David F., Ed.; Smith, P. R., Ed.

1984-01-01

Ten papers focus on applications in specific curriculum areas, modelling and simulation, and computer managed learning. Projects described include voice support for the visually handicapped, distance education, and industrial training, as well as teaching applied mathematics, several facets of engineering, zoology, and, with videodisc, observation…

Does the acceptance of hybrid learning affect learning approaches in France?

PubMed

Marco, Lionel Di; Venot, Alain; Gillois, Pierre

2017-01-01

Acceptance of a learning technology affects students' intention to use that technology, but the influence of the acceptance of a learning technology on learning approaches has not been investigated in the literature. A deep learning approach is important in the field of health, where links must be created between skills, knowledge, and habits. Our hypothesis was that acceptance of a hybrid learning model would affect students' way of learning. We analysed these concepts, and their correlations, in the context of a flipped classroom method using a local learning management system. In a sample of all students within a single year of study in the midwifery program (n= 38), we used 3 validated scales to evaluate these concepts (the Study Process Questionnaire, My Intellectual Work Tools, and the Hybrid E-Learning Acceptance Model: Learner Perceptions). Our sample had a positive acceptance of the learning model, but a neutral intention to use it. Students reported that they were distractible during distance learning. They presented a better mean score for the deep approach than for the superficial approach (P< 0.001), which is consistent with their declared learning strategies (personal reorganization of information; search and use of examples). There was no correlation between poor acceptance of the learning model and inadequate learning approaches. The strategy of using deep learning techniques was moderately correlated with acceptance of the learning model (r s = 0.42, P= 0.03). Learning approaches were not affected by acceptance of a hybrid learning model, due to the flexibility of the tool. However, we identified problems in the students' time utilization, which explains their neutral intention to use the system.

Does the acceptance of hybrid learning affect learning approaches in France?

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Purpose Acceptance of a learning technology affects students’ intention to use that technology, but the influence of the acceptance of a learning technology on learning approaches has not been investigated in the literature. A deep learning approach is important in the field of health, where links must be created between skills, knowledge, and habits. Our hypothesis was that acceptance of a hybrid learning model would affect students’ way of learning. Methods We analysed these concepts, and their correlations, in the context of a flipped classroom method using a local learning management system. In a sample of all students within a single year of study in the midwifery program (n= 38), we used 3 validated scales to evaluate these concepts (the Study Process Questionnaire, My Intellectual Work Tools, and the Hybrid E-Learning Acceptance Model: Learner Perceptions). Results Our sample had a positive acceptance of the learning model, but a neutral intention to use it. Students reported that they were distractible during distance learning. They presented a better mean score for the deep approach than for the superficial approach (P< 0.001), which is consistent with their declared learning strategies (personal reorganization of information; search and use of examples). There was no correlation between poor acceptance of the learning model and inadequate learning approaches. The strategy of using deep learning techniques was moderately correlated with acceptance of the learning model (rs= 0.42, P= 0.03). Conclusion Learning approaches were not affected by acceptance of a hybrid learning model, due to the flexibility of the tool. However, we identified problems in the students’ time utilization, which explains their neutral intention to use the system. PMID:29051406