I am a CIS instructor that uses WebCT for online courses and find the interface clunky and non-intuitive. To me the problem lies in the fact that WebCT is trying to put together a fairly complex site for a course but has to present tools that the typical liberal arts instructor ( non tech ) can use. It is similar to the problem I have with Access as a database - databases are complicated but Access wants to make a comfy interface for the casual user, and the resulting product really is not good for any kind of user.
I suppose at the same time while I am not very happy with WebCT, it is easier than building a site from scratch.
I think creationism and intelligent design are both flawed and propose HitchHikers Guide to the Galaxy as a valid alternatve. At least the white lab mice and the old dude designing fjords make more sense than most of the Old Testament stuff about floods, etc. HGttG should be required reading in school science classes (I'm not sure I'm kidding on that one) jim
I teach online classes (C++ and Databases)at a local community college and therefor see the issues from another side.
1. I spend more time on an online class than lecture classes due to answering piles of emails and writing up literate lecture notes to post as well as other issues.
2. more so than in class, online students need to be persistent with their issues, email til you get the answer you need
3. 'you get back what you put in' applies even more
4. the student must be VERY disciplined about study habits
5. there is no substitute for personal contact
6. take online courses only if you can't take live classes (mainly because of #5)
jim
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I am a CIS instructor that uses WebCT for online courses and find the interface clunky and non-intuitive. To me the problem lies in the fact that WebCT is trying to put together a fairly complex site for a course but has to present tools that the typical liberal arts instructor ( non tech ) can use. It is similar to the problem I have with Access as a database - databases are complicated but Access wants to make a comfy interface for the casual user, and the resulting product really is not good for any kind of user. I suppose at the same time while I am not very happy with WebCT, it is easier than building a site from scratch.
I think creationism and intelligent design are both flawed and propose HitchHikers Guide to the Galaxy as a valid alternatve. At least the white lab mice and the old dude designing fjords make more sense than most of the Old Testament stuff about floods, etc. HGttG should be required reading in school science classes (I'm not sure I'm kidding on that one)
jim
I teach online classes (C++ and Databases)at a local community college and therefor see the issues from another side. 1. I spend more time on an online class than lecture classes due to answering piles of emails and writing up literate lecture notes to post as well as other issues. 2. more so than in class, online students need to be persistent with their issues, email til you get the answer you need 3. 'you get back what you put in' applies even more 4. the student must be VERY disciplined about study habits 5. there is no substitute for personal contact 6. take online courses only if you can't take live classes (mainly because of #5) jim