One such site went online to monitor the effects that the eclipse would have on the wild animal population. There is little recognition that the Internet is a new medium with new potential and opportunities. We know there are teachers around the country who have redefined their teaching methods and are using the Web to do innovative and highly interactive learning activities, but they are the exception rather than the rule. We suggest that we need to change the basic assumptions about what learners need in the classroom. In particular, we need to examine what we, as teachers, offer and how we offer it.
People learn best in highly interactive learning environments.
The interactivity does not need to happen in real time, nor should student interaction be solely with the instructor. The concept of asynchronous distance learning allows for the creation of learning activities that require learners to interact with the course material, the instructor, and other learners. It provides a tool that can equip all learners with access to forums. It provides a means whereby anyone can express an opinion and anyone else can argue. There are few time constraints on the Web.