Web‐based Education and Pedagogical Technologies: Solutions for Learning Applications

Citation

Cloete, L. (2008), "Web‐based Education and Pedagogical Technologies: Solutions for Learning Applications", Library Hi Tech, Vol. 26 No. 3, pp. 489-490. https://doi.org/10.1108/07378830810903391

The shift from teaching to learning in higher education has been influenced by the introduction of information technologies (IT). Where computerisation initially only assisted in the speeding up of processes, it soon became evident that IT, and lately Web‐based technologies, could influence and change the traditional approaches and strategies to education and training.

Web‐based Education and Pedagogical Technologies is a compilation of summaries of research on, and experiences in, designing more effective learning systems and scenarios using Web‐based technologies. The preface introduces the theme of the book and touches on aspects such as the teaching‐learning process, learners' strategies and behaviour, the design of learning systems and the learning environment, lifelong learning and building a community of practice in e‐learning.

The content of the book is divided into four sections. Each section consists of a number of chapters that report on research and practice related to the topic of the section. The first section, on rethinking the learning process, explores the changes that occur in learning situations when using new technological tools and environments. The chapters cover the application of Web‐based systems, design methodology, virtual learning and the design of the user interface of the learning system.

The second section examines the relationship between technology and learners' behaviour, looking at online behaviour modelling, analysis of learner behaviour in active learning environments, and improving teaching effectiveness using distance education tools. The third section describes approaches for designing technology‐supported learning management systems. The reports in this section explore the evaluation of web‐based multimedia learning environments, assistive learning technologies for learners with special needs, asynchronous learning and a new model in learning design.

The fourth and final section looks at lifelong learning and corporate training issues. It includes a chapter on how learning influences our world at work, home and school. The next chapter presents the market opportunities for open source software in the e‐learning field. This is followed by a presentation of an example of collaboration between companies and academic bodies. The next chapter presents the process of integrating online and on‐campus education at a university. The last chapter reflects upon the adoption of web‐based education by institutions with specific reference to a case study.

There is a list of references at the end of each chapter which offer valuable sources for further study and research. A well‐structured index enables the reader to locate information on the most important topics covered. Contributors are academics and researchers in information systems management, cognitive science, computing, and information science, from around the world.

The book will provide useful information for researchers, practitioners and decision makers in the field of education – especially those specialising in Web‐based technologies in education.