Distance Learning

Volume 11 #3

Edited by:
Michael Simonson, Nova Southeastern University

A volume in the series: Distance Learning Journal. Editor(s): Michael Simonson, Nova Southeastern University.

Published 2014

Distance Learning is for leaders, practitioners, and decision makers in the fields of distance learning, e'learning, telecommunications, and related areas. It is a professional journal with applicable information for those involved with providing instruction to all kinds of learners, of all ages, using telecommunications technologies of all types. Stories are written by practitioners for practitioners with the intent of providing usable information and ideas. Articles are accepted from authors--new and experienced--with interesting and important information about the effective practice of distance teaching and learning.

Distance Learning is published quarterly. Each issue includes eight to ten articles and three to four columns, including the highly regarded "And Finally..." column covering recent important issues in the field and written by Distance Learning editor, Michael Simonson. Articles are written by practitioners from various countries and locations, nationally and internationally.

Distance Learning is an official publication of the United States Distance Learning Association, and is co-sponsored by the Fischler School of Education at Nova Southeastern University and Information Age Publishing.

CONTENTS

SPECIAL ISSUE

FOREWORD TO THE SPECIAL ISSUE: ASK ERROL! OR TRY THIS, Michael Simonson

INTRODUCTION TO THE SPECIAL ISSUE, Errol Craig Sull

“TRY THIS” COLUMNS
Responding To Online Student E-mails And Other Posts: The Good, The Ugly, And The Confused Student Engagement, Motivation, And Rapport

Parental Involvement And Its Impact On Student Achievement In Florida Virtual School

Creativity: Use It Effectively To Enhance Your Online Teaching

Reality-based Education: Teaching Your Course Beyond The Course

Want to Be Respected As a Distance Learning Educator? Don’t Whine, Be a Baby, Complain, or Be a Snob

A Miniguide To The Use Of Audio Files In The Distance Learning Class

Your First Postings: Always Crucial!

Creating and Using an Online Rubric for Maximum Effectiveness

Small Things Can Make the Difference Between a Good or Great Distance Educator

“ASK ERROL!” COLUMNS
Discussion Boards, Grades, and Student Involvement (7-1)

Becoming a Better Online Instructor, Discussion Threads, and Due Dates (7-2)

Groups, Plagiarism, Communication, and Media (7-4)

Late Work, Engagement Tips, Student Fears, Writing, Software Upgrades, and a New Year’s Resolution (8-1)

Student Evaluations, Micromanagement, Professional Development, Social Networking, and The Future of Online Education (8-2)

Beyond the APA Manual, Facebook “Friends,” Opening Letters, Student Writing, and Teaching Style (9-1)

Time Management, Software Updates, Reaching Students, and Dealing With Teams (9-2)

Audio and Visual Materials, Live Chats, Examples of Assignments, and Religion (10-1)

New Software, Responding to Student Complaints, Complete Assignments, and Time Off (10-4)

TRAINING, INFORMATION OVERLOAD, TIME, AND TRENDS (11-1)

AND FINALLY ... Educational Colonialism —by Michael Simonson