After teaching a course using distance education interactive video technology, I felt that I was less able to interact with my students. After class, discussions took place only with students in the immediate room. Part of learning is the informal discussions held after class. This cannot take place in distance education when the technology is disconnected. An alternative was to use e-mail, but many did not want to voice their concerns on computers when confidentiality was concerned.
Personal interaction can be an effective learning tool.
Bringing in a special speaker by way of interactive video has its advantages, so does the personal touch. Check this box if you would like this submission to be considered for publication as a letter to the editor in the printed Chronicle. Be sure to include your name and affiliation. Legitimate requests for anonymity will be honored. Submissions may be condensed or edited for clarity.