Portals & collections

Description

ION Resources
http://www.ion.illinois.edu/

Here is a centralized resource for the online educator. The University of Illinois has created a site that covers both educational theory and the utilization of instructional technologies. Though it provides specific guidelines and advice in places, it has a broad focus and addresses a myriad of topics and concerns. Of particular note is the document Instructional Design for Online Course Development and What Makes a Successful Online Student?. The latter contains information to help students determine if they should consider online learning. It's also a good place for instructors to find suggestions, requirements and guidelines for their students to follow (e.g., "The successful student will view online as a convenient way to receive their education ? not an easier way."). Some of the guidelines are just as applicable to facilitators as the are to students.

Selected Web Resources on Distance Education
http://home.apu.edu/~rwhite/dised.html

An effective gateway to a wide range of online resources about online resources. The Distance Education links include a bibliography of 355 research reports, summaries and papers on Distance Education. Other links lead to information on the historical perspective on Distance Education, introductory sites, online education providers and services (including Blackboard.com), sample higher education courses online and more.

Web Tools for Learning
http://wwwtools.cityu.edu.hk/

No matter what your area of interest regarding Web-based learning is, you should visit this online education portal. It has everything from information on commercial products to a forum where educators can discuss the role of communication technologies in instruction. In its authors' own words, "Web Tools for Learning is a one-stop resource for university instructors interested in the World Wide Web as a teaching tool." It is best seen in MS Internet Explorer, but well worth any inconvenience this might incur.

Resources In Distance Education (RIDE)
http://ccism.pc.athabascau.ca/html/ccism/deresrce/de.htm

A large and comprehensive compilation of resources for distance and online educaiton. You are free to browse through links organized by topic or proceed directly to points of interest by using the search engine.