Understanding the 'Electronic' Student: Analysis of Functional Requirements for Distributed Education

This paper describes how the Open University, as a large distance education institution, has used the Internet to transform the learning environment for distance students. We review the process involved in understanding the requirements of distance education students and how they can be supported via the Internet. We describe the tools developed in our Internet-based implementation and how they address the needs of geographically remote learners: electronic student registration, electronic assignment handling, electronic tutorial sessions, and electronic examinations. The paper reflects on the impact of this implementation and the gains in using the Internet for global distance learners, realised in flexible study practices and efficient communiqués

Evaluation of the graphical interface to a World Wide Web-based college course offered through the UNC-CH School of Public Health Department of Maternal and Child Health

This study describes a questionnaire survey of and interviews with students of the UNC-CH School of Public Health Department of Maternal and Child Health. The survey and interviews were conducted to evaluate the design of an interactive study guide offered as part of a World Wide Web-based college course. The results of the study identified a discrepancy in the perceived success of the design of the study guide between students who used the guide for the college course and those who used the guide as a supplemental educational resource only. Based on the results, the investigator suggests a number of recommendations to improve the experience of all students using the study guide