It seems, based on the innumerable studies I have found, that there is a pressing need to know how well students learn by one means as compared to another. In most cases, especially as it impacts on distance education, the comparisons are being made between a technology and the traditional classroom. Therefore the dominant medium studied was television in its wide variety of permutations. Most recently these studies have focused on computer-based technologies. I have raised that question myself and tried to answer it in depth in the book . .
Computer networks change the power structure.
But we find that at least in the language learning arena, it works best when power is allowed to be diffused. Otherwise you get a whole bunch of lurkers. I may be one of the rebels. That could very well be true but I am afraid that is not my area. For heaven's sake, if you look at our retention rates, if you look at the madness of our scheduling, sitting in rows, lecture halls, behind computers, etc.