Online Education: Learning and Teaching in Cyberspace - an Interview with author Greg Kearsley
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An Interview with Greg Kearsley
Greg Kearsley is the author of the famous book "Online Education: Learning and Teaching in Cyberspace." He is currently an independent consultant specializing in online education. He has designed online courses for NCREL, Walden Institute and the MEPP program at the University of Wisconsin. Dr. Kearsley received his PhD in educational psychology from the University of Alberta in 1978 and has written many books and articles about technology and education. |
| He has taught at many universities including the University of Maryland, Nova Southeastern University and the George Washington University; was the Chief Executive Officer of Park Row Inc., a software publishing company in San Diego; chief scientist of Courseware Incorporated, a training development firm based in San Diego; and a senior scientist at the Human Resources Research Organization (HumRRO) in Alexandria, VA. |
Is the online medium as effective in imparting education as traditional classroom teaching?
Greg Kearsley:
Yes it can be. Depends upon the quality of the online materials and the teaching. Can be good or poor...just like classroom instruction.
Some believe that face-to-face interaction between student and teacher is necessary for effective learning. What are your thoughts on this?
Greg Kearsley: If you want F2F interaction via online learning you can have it via live conferencing using webcams. Those who try it, decide its not worth the trouble...although web conferencing with audio interaction seems to be worthwhile. But many students/teachers prefer asychronous interaction since it eliminates scheduling hassles.
What qualities are essential in a good online teacher?
Greg Kearsley: Patience, comfort with technology, good written communication skills, flexibility, discipline, love of teaching, williness to spend a lot of time one-on-one with students.
Some learning tips for students to ensure success in online education
Greg Kearsley: Must be self-motivated. Need to make a learning schedule and stick to it. Be willing to spend lots of time sitting at a computer!
Are there any drawbacks of online education?
Greg Kearsley: Yes, it's not for everybody.
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