They are then stored in the video server with links from his class web site server. The classes can be delivered basic via videotape or from the course archive on the web. Although Latchman believes the live and interactive classroom is the best environment for learning, he says that ALN web site delivery enhances the classroom experience and gives the best chance possible for those who can not attend classes on campus. He finds the asynchronous process has tremendous value in that students can join in the class live or get to the lecture later, on their own schedules, if necessary. The electronic site is also helpful for students who are reluctant to respond in the classroom.
Students often become comfortable with the model of one-way listening to a lecture.
Instructors don't make it easy, either, Latchman says, when students find their answers to questions are belittled. The web site provides an interactive chat room in one corner of the screen so that students can ask questions or respond during or outside the class, without drawing attention to themselves. Other areas of the screen show visual aids, blackboard notes, and handwritten class notes. The major advantage to the archived classes is that students can interrupt the flow to examine this material or to refer to other lectures stored on the web. In developing the on-line lecture web site, I begin from the philosophy that personal contact is the best environment in which to learn.