Virtual instruction: issues and insights from an international perspective

Throughout the world, schools, universities, and industry have begun to use virtual instruction to expand their outreach to learners and to promote collaboration and exchange among educators. As these virtual communities encompass the globe, questions regarding the nature of teaching learning, and communicating in a technology-embedded, multicultural, and border-free environment have arisen. The essays in this book clarify predominant theoretical issues that pertain to this new form of computer-mediated, interactive distance learning and offer practical suggestions for implementing virtual instruction programs. Addressing a variety of instructional technologies (e.g., web-based instruction, videoconferencing), the book examines virtual instruction from different perspectives, including economics, sociology, communication, and learning theory. Invaluable to educators and students of teacher education, instructional design, technology, and communication, the book will appeal to anyone involved in or w