The side frame gives the student access to the actual instructional modules of the course and their related reference resources. A toggle button at the top of the frame gives the student option of switching from the links to the course modules to likes to each modules reference resources. The Introduction module lays out the format for the rest of the modules in the course and also provides the student an overview of what is required. Each subsequent module deals with aspects of the Internet and on-line communications that students must master to effective participate and contribute to the Internet. When the Course Information and Resources button is activated students have access to the course reference material and resources.
All reference material is available on-line.
We hope to alleviate this problem with the navigation tutorial. However, a student still has the option to not use either navigation guide and may temporarily miss out on the wealth of resources behind the Course Information and Resources button. This is unfortunate because this section points to the most current and effective resources available on the Internet. Getting students to read instructions, basic introductory material, or to use prepared resources has traditionally been a problem in all forms of education. This is just one of the more interesting challenges in distance education.