Transactional issues in distance education: The impact of design in Audioteleconferencing |
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| Authors: | Terry D Anderson D Randy Garrison |
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| Institution: | 1. Associate Professor in Alternative Delivery Initiative at the University Extension Centre , University of Alberta , 112 Street and 83 Avenue, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2T4, Canada;2. Professor and Associate Dean of Research and Development, Faculty of Continuing Education , University of Calgary , 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada |
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| Abstract: | Abstract This paper reports the results of a study of student perceptions of learning via audioconferencing in university‐level courses delivered at a distance. Field observations, interviews, and a focus group were used to triangulate and deepen knowledge obtained from an initial mail survey. The results of the investigation revealed that the audioteleconferences were being used under two quite different instructional designs, which were associated with significant differences in students' perceptions of the opportunity to engage in critical thinking skills, creation of a community of inquiry, and the value of various components of the distance education system. The study documents students' perceptions and outlines ways in which these sessions can be designed to induce maximum learning opportunities. |
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