DEOSNEWS Vol. 2  No. 2.
Copyright 1992 DEOS - The Distance Education Online Symposium
   
Editor: Morten Flate Paulsen, MFP101@PSUVM.PSU.EDU
Review: Philip W. Pinder
   
DEOS was established with a grant from the Annenberg/CPB Project.
   
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ABSTRACTS FROM ARTICLES APPEARING IN
THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DISTANCE EDUCATION
1991   




VOLUME 5 NUMBER 1
 

Author(s):     Abrioux, Dominique
Title:         Computer Assisted Language Learning at a Distance: An
               International Survey
Publ.:         The American Journal of Distance Education, Vol. 5, No. 1
Pub. Yr.:      1991
Pages:         3-14
Abstract:      The article presents the results from a survey of sixty-five
distance education institutions around the world, summarizing the use of
computer assisted language learning in their courses. The article presents
and analyzes statistics about the languages taught and the applications
used at the institutions. The general categories of applications included
are: Computer Assisted Language Learning (remediation drills, tutorials,
games, simulations, etc.), Computer Conferencing, and Computer Managed
Instruction (marking of assignments or exams, exam item banking, record
keeping and tracking, placement testing, etc.). (16 references)
 
Author(s):     Davie, Lynn E. and Rosalie Wells
Title:         Empowering the Learner Through Computer-Mediated Communica-
               tion
Publ.:         The American Journal of Distance Education, Vol. 5, No. 1
Pub. Yr.:      1991
Pages:         15-23
Abstract:      The article discusses features of computer-mediated communi-
cation that can support learner empowerment. It focuses on the instructors'
role, group interaction, the implications of text-based dialogue, and the
presence of a permanent transcript. Finally, the article discusses the
pedagogical use of transcripts and suggests possible transcript-based
assignments. (20 references)
 
Author(s):     Dille, Brian and Michael Mezack
Title:         Identifying Predictors of High Risk Among Community College
               Telecourse Students
Publ.:         The American Journal of Distance Education, Vol. 5, No. 1
Pub. Yr.:      1991
Pages:         24-35
Abstract:      A descriptive study was conducted at a southwestern commun-
ity college during the spring of 1989 to relate selected aspects of
retention and academic success in the community college telecourse students
to locus of control (using the RIELC Scale), learning style (using Kolb's
LSI), and selected demographic data. The sample was composed of 151
students enrolled in four, lower division telecourses. Based on the data,
the profile of a "high risk" telecourse student is the following: the
younger (25 or younger) student, divorced, with fewer than 30 college
credit hours completed, with a GPA lower than 3.0-2.9, with a higher than
average Rotter score (above 7.5), a higher than average (25 or above)
Concrete Experience score, and a lower than average (below 5) AC-CE score.
This information can be used by counsellors in the advisement process to
lower telecourse attrition rates. (Written by author) (7 references)
 
Author(s):     Rudich, Kenneth S.
Title:         Marketing the Telecommunications-Based Adult Continuing
               Education Program
Publ.:         The American Journal of Distance Education, Vol. 5, No. 1
Pub. Yr.:      1991
Pages:         36-42
Abstract:      The article stresses the importance of marketing and
customer satisfaction in telecommunications-based adult continuing educa-
tion programs. Further, the marketing roles of instructors and other
stakeholders are discussed, and finally, the article describes a three-
stage marketing strategy which comprises a situational analysis of the
market, development of a marketing plan, and implementation of the plan. (4
references)
 
Author(s):     Wilkes, C. Wynn and Byron R. Burnham
Title:         Adult Learner Motivations and Electronic Distance Education
Publ.:         The American Journal of Distance Education, Vol. 5, No. 1
Pub. Yr.:      1991
Pages:         43-50
Abstract:      The article reports a motivation study of 156 students
enrolled in the Utah State University's electronic distance education
system (COM-NET). The courses examined were taught via audio coupled with
electronic writing boards. Both audio and graphics were transmitted via
telephone lines. The independent variables in the study were the motivatio-
nal orientation of the participants (E.P.S.), demographic data, and course
data. The dependent variables were the participants' perceptions of the
learning environment in the areas of satisfaction (LEI), material environ-
ment, involvement (CUCEI), and extension. The article concludes that there
appears to be little practical relationship between motivational orienta-
tions and participants' satisfaction. (14 references)
 
Author(s):     Jones, Christine S. and William M. Timpson
Title:         Technologically Mediated Staff Development: A Retrospective
               Case Study
Publ.:         The American Journal of Distance Education, Vol. 5, No. 1
Pub. Yr.:      1991
Pages:         51-56
Abstract:      Colorado State University has utilized telecourses for on-
going, effective, site-based development since 1982. These materials are in
modular format with texts; handbook; and individual, thirty minute pre-
recorded videotapes for each lesson (14). While attrition has been high,
completers report increases in knowledge, skill, and self-confidence as
well as appreciation for the convenience and flexibility. When participants
study in groups, they also report increased collegiality. Given the
evidence of factors promoting change--adaptation to local conditions,
involvement of a significant number of local staff--these telecourses offer
some distinct advantages over campus-based instruction. (Written by
authors) (5 references)


VOLUME 5 NUMBER 2
 

Author(s):     Kember, David, David Murphy, Irene Siaw, and K. S. Yuen
Title:         Towards a Causal Model of Student Progress in Distance
               Education: Research in Hong Kong
Publ.:         The American Journal of Distance Education, Vol. 5, No. 2
Pub. Yr.:      1991
Pages:         3-15
Abstract:      This article develops a path model of student progress in
distance education. The basis of the development was the influential model
of Tinto (1975), which has been modified to suit the special circumstances
of distance students. In particular, this study has paid attention to the
social integration component, sometimes lacking in previous attempts to
apply Tinto's model to distance education. The analysis, using path
methods, confirms the importance of social integration, along with academic
integration, which act as intervening variables between the background and
outcome variables. (Written by authors) (28 references)
 
Author(s):     Dyer, Gordon C
Title:         Design and Implementation of an M.B.A. Program in the United
               Kingdom
Publ.:         The American Journal of Distance Education, Vol. 5, No. 2
Pub. Yr.:      1991
Pages:         16-23
Abstract:      The UKOU has extended its open access philosophy to part-
time programmes of management education up to MBA level, intending no
discrimination in terms of gender, class, entry qualifications, upper age,
ethnic root, occupation or other disadvantage, and to cover organisational
needs in all economic sectors. The paper describes how the objectives of
open access and maintenance of quality of output are achieved through
appropriate systems design of program, routing and a "ladder of opportun-
ity". The contribution of Computer Mediated Conferencing as a future
teaching medium in the programme is evaluated, in the context of its
potential to aid interactive communication, widen access to, and reduce
isolation of students. (Written by author) (7 references)
 
Author(s):     Ross, David
Title:         Project Management in the Development of Instructional
               Material for Distance Education: An Australian Overview
Publ.:         The American Journal of Distance Education, Vol. 5, No. 2
Pub. Yr.:      1991
Pages:         24-30
Abstract:      The article describes project management in general and
points out some implications for the development of instructional material.
The article recommends "phase network"--a technique for scheduling,
supervising, and controlling instructional materials development projects.
The technique comprises these four stages: Preparation of the phase
network, estimation of expected time to perform each work element, develop-
ment of the phase network, and monitoring and control. (1 reference)
 
Author(s):     Collis, Betty A.
Title:         Telecommunications-Based Training in Europe: A State-of-the-
               Art Report
Publ.:         The American Journal of Distance Education, Vol. 5, No. 2
Pub. Yr.:      1991
Pages:         31-40
Abstract:      The article reports on the European Community-sponsored
seminar "Telecommunications Based Training Systems in the 90's" held in
Madrid, Spain, January 21 and 22, 1991. The seminar focused on state-of-the
art projects involving telecommunications for training and instruction.
Further, the article gives brief reviews of these Europe-wide projects:
DELTA (Developing European Learning Through Technological Advance), LAT
(Learning by Advanced Telecommunications), OLE (Organizational Learning in
Enterprises), OLEW (Open Learning Experimental Workshop), SATDOC (Satellite
Medical Education and Data Transfer), JANUS (Joint Academic Using Satel-
lite), CAPTIVE (Image Transmission in Distance Education), Channel e
(Development of a European Educational Broadcast Series by Mass Audience
Satellite). In addition, several other European Projects involving telecom-
munications-based training are mentioned. (13 references)
 
Author(s):     Tait, Alan
Title:         Distance Education in the United Kingdom Today: Current
               Trends
Publ.:         The American Journal of Distance Education, Vol. 5, No. 2
Pub. Yr.:      1991
Pages:         42-46
Abstract:      The article briefly describes the Open University, the Open
Tech, the Open College, and the Open Polytechnic. In addition, it presents
several European distance education projects and discusses their implica-
tions for the Open University. (10 references)
 
Author(s):     Immonen, Jouni and Jorma Rinta-Kanto
Title:         Features of Distance Education in Finland
Publ.:         The American Journal of Distance Education, Vol. 5, No. 2
Pub. Yr.:      1991
Pages:         47-50
Abstract:      The article presents the development of distance education
in Finland. The discussion includes information about adult education,
distance education at universities, creation of and cooperation among
cooperative networks, media, and research activities. (0 References)
 
Author(s):     Mohle, Horst
Title:         Distance Education in Eastern Germany
Publ.:         The American Journal of Distance Education, Vol. 5, No. 2
Pub. Yr.:      1991
Pages:         51-54
Abstract:      The article presents distance education in eastern Germany
with special emphasis on goals, research findings, and the consequences of
the unification of the two German states. (7 references)
 
Author(s):     Gao, Fuwen
Title:         The Challenge of Distance Education in China
Publ.:         The American Journal of Distance Education, Vol. 5, No. 2
Pub. Yr.:      1991
Pages:         54-58
Abstract:      The article presents distance education in China with an
emphasis on satellite TV-based education. The article also elucidates the
demand for education and the impact of distance education on the develop-
ment of China. (0 references)
 
Author(s):     Wei, Renfang
Title:         China's Network of Radio and Television Universities
Publ.:         The American Journal of Distance Education, Vol. 5, No. 2
Pub. Yr.:      1991
Pages:         59-64
Abstract:      The article presents China's Network of Radio and Television
Universities (TVU), its organizational structure, its administrative and
academic responsibilities, and the relationship between TVUs and govern-
ments. The article also includes information about TVU degrees and curricu-
la. (4 references)
 
Author(s):     Garrido, Jose Luis Garcia
Title:         Overview of Spanish and Latin American Distance Higher
               Education
Publ.:         The American Journal of Distance Education, Vol. 5, No. 2
Pub. Yr.:      1991
Pages:         64-68
Abstract:      The article presents an overview of distance education
institutions dealing with higher education in Spain and Latin America. The
Spanish UNED, the Costa Rican UNED, and the Venezuelan UNA are discussed in
greater detail. (2 references)
 

VOLUME 5 NUMBER 3


Author(s):     Phelps, Ruth H, Rosalie A. Wells, Robert L. Ashworth, Jr.,
               and Heidi A. Hahn
Title:         Effectiveness and Costs of Distance Education Using Com-
               puter-Mediated Communication
Publ.:         The American Journal of Distance Education, Vol. 5, No. 3
Pub. Yr.:      1991
Pages:         7-19
Abstract:      A portion of an Army resident course was converted for
distance study via computer-mediated communication (CMC). Students and
instructors communicated with each other using computers at home, thus
creating an "electronic classroom". Test scores, completion rates, student
perceptions and costs were compared to resident training. Results showed
CMC performance is no different than resident, and completion rates and
costs are less than resident instruction. (Written by authors) (24 refer-
ences)
 
Author(s):     Gehlauf, DeeAnn N., Mark A. Shatz, and Tim W. Frye
Title:         Faculty Perceptions of Interactive Television Instructional
               Strategies: Implications for Training
Publ.:         The American Journal of Distance Education, Vol. 5, No. 3
Pub. Yr.:      1991
Pages:         20-28
Abstract:      Perceptions of the effectiveness of various instructional
strategies utilized in interactive television classes were investigated.
Instructors who had experience teaching interactive television courses at
Ohio University were surveyed. The results showed that the instructional
methods most frequently used in interactive televised courses were those
methods associated with traditional classroom instruction (e. g. lecture
and overhead notes). The instructional methods deemed as effective for
interactive television courses were much more audio-visually oriented (e.
g. videotapes and slides). Instructors also indicated a desire for training
prior to entering interactive television classrooms. The implications of
the findings for future research and the development of training programs
are discussed. (Written by authors) (10 references)
 
Author(s):     Moore, D. Michael, John K. Burton, and Norman R. Dodl
Title:         The Role of Facilitators in Virginia's Electronic Classroom
               Project
Publ.:         The American Journal of Distance Education, Vol. 5, No. 3
Pub. Yr.:      1991
Pages:         29-39
Abstract:      This paper provides background information about the state-
wide delivery of televised instruction to schools with a satellite downlink
in Virginia. It presents the project history, guidelines for classrooms and
facilitators, description of actual facilities, and the role and selection
of local facilitators. Finally, the article reports conclusions about the
project based on an independent investigation. 
 
Author(s):     Maloy, William L. and Nancy N. Perry
Title:         A Navy Video Teletraining Project: Lessons Learned
Publ.:         The American Journal of Distance Education, Vol. 5, No. 3
Pub. Yr.:      1991
Pages:         40-50
Abstract:      Video teletraining (VTT) is a distance learning technology
with great potential for restructuring the schooling process. This article
describes the approach the Naval Education and Training Command took, and
the issues it faced in designing an implementation plan for a Navy-wide
Video Teletraining system. "Lessons learned" in the areas of policy,
instruction, management, and system architecture, are discussed and
generalized in terms of their implications for other organizations who may
be planning VTT systems. Finally, the need for this nation to fully exploit
VTT's potential is addressed. (Written by authors) (9 references)
 
Author(s):     Cheng, Hui-Chuan, James Lehman, and Penny Armstrong
Title:         Comparison of Performance and Attitude in Traditional and
               Computer Conferencing Classes
Publ.:         The American Journal of Distance Education, Vol. 5, No. 3
Pub. Yr.:      1991
Pages:         51-64
Abstract:      The article describes a study of the effectiveness of
computer-mediated communication (CMC) used in a graduate-level instruc-
tional computing course in Indiana. In Spring 1989, twenty-five regular on-
campus students and twenty eight off-campus, in-service teachers took part
in the study. The off-campus group comprised both correspondence students
and CMC students. The study compared the three student-groups' achieve-
ments, time-on-tasks, and attitudes. In conclusion, the article suggests
that computer conferencing can be an effective teletraining device for
academic institutions. (6 references)
 
Author(s):     St. Pierre, Suzanne and Larry K. Olsen
Title:         Student Perspectives on the Effectiveness of Correspondence
               Instruction
Publ.:         The American Journal of Distance Education, Vol. 5, No. 3
Pub. Yr.:      1991
Pages:         65-71
Abstract:      The article reports a study on students' perception of
instructors and instructional impact in terms of student satisfaction with
the delivery of college credit correspondence courses. The findings were
based on a Student Perception Questionnaire that was mailed to 700 random
students who completed college credit courses via correspondence study from
the Pennsylvania State University during a one-year time period. (12
references)
   
----------------- End of DEOSNEWS Vol. 2  No. 2 ------------------------
   

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